Sophie Stachera-Stygle discusses her Furley Page trainee solicitor programme

Why did you choose Furley Page to pursue your training?

Having grown up in Canterbury I have always been aware of Furley Page and their reputation for being an excellent law firm. It was important for me to start my legal career in a firm that provided me with the very best opportunities. Being a full practice, well-established regional firm with a longstanding reputation I knew that Furley Page was a firm I would like to do my training contract with.

As an individual coming into law as a career change and being a mature student, it was also important to me that I found a firm that would also recognise candidates who had not taken a traditional route into law. From my initial conversations with Furley Page and during the application process it was clear that this was the case.

What has been your over-riding impression so far of the training programme at Furley Page?

It is clear that the firm has full commitment to their trainees and our development. I have always received excellent supervision and have felt senior fee earners and Partners are keen to share their expertise

As a trainee I have also been made to feel that my contributions are valued and I have had a key role to play in the progression of matters, with regular client contact and exposure to a variety of different work.

What has been your most memorable work related experience during you training programme?

During my first seat in Residential Real Estate, we had to work closely with the Private Client team to ensure that we were working within the client’s instructions and to ensure that the client had continued capacity, and the transaction remained in the client’s best interests.

It was a great experience to be included in various meetings with the client and to witness how effective collaborative working across the firm is in achieving the best outcome for our clients.

What skills do you think are essential to be a successful lawyer?

I think firstly communication is very important. Being able to listen to clients to understand their needs and their desired goals before constructing your advice in a manner that each client is able to understand and can make decisions from.

It is also important to have a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage a number of different matters with differing priorities.

What advice would you give anyone looking to train as a solicitor?

Research each firm well and where possible spend time with the firm. This will help ensure that it is a good fit, both for what you want to gain from your time as a trainee and what you have to offer to the firm. I was lucky enough to do the Vacation Scheme with Furley Page and from this experience I was confident that I could do well and qualify as a well rounded and skilled solicitor.

Also, if you are coming to law later or as a career change be patient. The process of further study and training programmes can make it seem that qualification is always a long way off but remember why you are doing it, and it will be worth it.

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