Being a Trainee Solicitor: How to Survive and Thrive

Do you remember your first day as a trainee – nervous and anxious to make a good impression? Many years ago, for some. The first day of training – probably following a long search for work or successful time as a case worker – is an achievement in itself.

Written by a solicitor and management consultant who has spent many years working with trainees, this book examines the expectations of the role and outlines the core skills needed. 

This guide begins in a very personable way that feels relatable to a recent law graduate. It identifies a genuine concern faced by many entering the profession: that studying law at university does not adequately prepare a graduate for the reality of working in a law firm. The author offers advice on areas that law school does not address, such as building and maintaining relationships with colleagues and clients. This is integral to a trainee’s role.  

The guidance offered is presented from the viewpoint of a character in a hypothetical scenario, allowing the reader to understand how to practically apply the advice given. 

Proverbs-Garbett sets down a comprehensive and easy-to-understand overview of the traditional training contract and explains the formalities at different stages of this process, which can be very overwhelming at first. 

He looks at the roles of other professionals you are likely to encounter as a trainee, how they fit into the firm hierarchy and what they do. This is helpful. Television shows often use incorrect or Americanised terminology. The discussion of law firms as businesses also contextualises and consolidates the business practice knowledge required for the SQE. 

Legal training is a career-long requirement. The advice on responding to training is useful. It can be easy for a new member of staff to remain quiet and engage less than others who may have been working together for years. Much legal training is done ‘on the job’, and is different from the style of learning at university, where the focus is on textbooks and lectures.  

A section entitled ‘cheerful working’ addresses how to present yourself to colleagues and clients. It looks at common trainee tasks, what each of them entails and advises on how to approach them in a positive way. This can be hard to do at times. The reference to ‘passion, personality and proactivity’ in respect of viewing your work and presenting yourself in the workplace rings true. 

Mistakes can happen to anyone and the section on managing them raises the important issue that a trainee will always make mistakes, no matter how good they are or how hard they try. This is important to acknowledge. There is a natural fear regarding asking for help and potentially being viewed as bad at your job. Problems and concerns should be shared openly. 

The chapter on managing time explains time recording and dictation – two staple law firm processes – and lists several prioritising and time-maximising techniques you can use with reference to different legal tasks. The role of a supervisor is most useful to a trainee, yet they tend to be underused. This book discusses maintaining effective communication with your supervisor and ensuring that you work productively and cohesively on projects. Without proper organisation, this can be difficult, especially if your supervisor is someone of seniority in the firm. 

Another chapter affirms the importance of using the support system of other trainees at your firm, and treating everyone with respect and kindness. There is guidance on how to present yourself professionally and how best to deal with clients in a direct and honest way. It is often necessity that brings clients to us, rather than desire or choice. 

Proverbs-Garbett also discusses how some trainees have opportunities for secondment and overseas training, which broadens horizons. 

This book is a valuable tool that offers structured and practical guidance. 

Elizabeth Tarling is a trainee solicitor at Pickup & Scott, Aylesbury