Hannah Pilcher looks back on being a trainee solicitor with Furley Page

Why did you choose Furley Page to pursue your training?

I heard about Furley Page and their reputation as one of the leading law firms in Kent and the wider South East region during my time at the University of Kent. I applied to the firm’s summer work placement scheme to gain an insight into working at a large regional firm with a strong reputation.

Having undertaken the summer placement scheme, I knew I wanted to pursue my training at Furley Page. Not only is the firm highly supportive of its trainees, but trainees have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of different practice areas during their training contract and are given responsibility and client contact from the outset.

What seats have you been in and has there been any which challenged your perception of that area of practice?

I have just started my final seat in Private Client, and I have also completed seats in Real Estate, Vulnerable Client and Personal Injury.

Before my Personal Injury seat, I didn’t think that I would enjoy working in a contentious practice area. My time in Personal Injury definitely challenged that perception, as I found the work interesting and enjoyed getting involved in contentious work, including attending two trials during my seat. I think it is important to keep an open mind throughout your training contract, as you don’t really know what a particular area of law is like until you have actual experience working in that area.

If you could take one key learning from each of your seats you have completed so far, what would it be?

• My time in Real Estate taught me the importance of file management and organisation as a lawyer, to ensure matters continue to move forwards in an effective and timely manner.
• My time in Vulnerable Client taught me the importance of building trusting relationships with clients, as often you are assisting individuals during a difficult time in their life.
• My time in Personal Injury taught me the importance of collaborating with your team, as often your colleagues will have different perceptions and ideas as to how a case should be progressed.

Reflecting back on your training so far, to what extent has the reality of training in a legal firm lived up to your expectations?

I was keen to gain experience in a variety of different practice areas during my training contract, and I have been able to do so at Furley Page. I have had the opportunity to get involved in a range of different matters, including complex matters run by partners. I have thoroughly enjoyed my training so far and look forward to completing my final seat before qualifying in September.

Find out more about becoming a trainee solicitor with Furley Page >>