Trainee Solicitor – Lakota Teyen:
I was fortunate to join Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors as a Trainee Solicitor in July 2023, shortly after graduating from Northumbria University with a Master of Law (LPC Exempting) degree. The degree combines the traditional LLB (Hons) degree with an integrated master’s and incorporates the knowledge and skills required to succeed as a solicitor. I also had the opportunity to gain practical experience by electing to participate in the Student Law Office in the penultimate year of my studies and assisted with the Family Team.
During my time in the Student Law Office, I developed and acquired key skills such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, interviewing and advising clients under the guidance of a qualified solicitor. It is safe to say that this experience reaffirmed my ambition to enter the legal profession and become a solicitor. Following completion of the Student Law Office module, I successfully applied for my first role within the legal profession and gained further hands-on experience in Conveyancing and Personal Injury with a local firm, where I continued to develop and gain new skills.
I have recently completed my first seat in Family (Legal Aid) over at Watson Woodhouse Solicitors. Following completion of my first seat, I have recently joined the Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence Team over at Macks Solicitors. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a Trainee Solicitor here at Watson Woodhouse and Macks Solicitors. Everyone is approachable and there is a genuine commitment to ensure that you get the most out of your training.
A Typical Day:
Often, your day can vary greatly and no two days are the same. A typical day in Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence can look like…
8:30 am: I usually arrive at the office by this time to get settled in before we start the day at 8:45 am. You will always find me with a coffee to start my day!
8:45 am: I respond to any emails and diarise my tasks for the day ahead, such as reviewing key documents and drafting letters.
10:00 am: Meet with my supervisor to discuss matters, their general progress and prioritising which tasks need to be completed. The tasks identified often keep me busy up until 1:00 pm and such tasks often include reviewing medical records, expert reports, drafting letters, conducting legal research or assessing quantum (the monetary value of a claim).
1:00 pm: Lunch time! I like to get up and move around, such as having a walk into the town centre to make sure I get some fresh air and steps in for the day!
2:00 pm: Usually, I tend to continue with the tasks I have for the day and ensure they are completed. However, whilst completing tasks, you should also expect new enquiries throughout the day regarding a potential claim. Therefore, I will call prospective clients to obtain further details, discuss the nature of their accident and assess whether there is merit in taking on their case. It is important to ring prospective clients as soon as possible. Limitation is key in this area of law and we should avoid delays wherever possible.
3:00 pm: An example I would use that has happened most recently, is attending the scene of where an accident has taken place. My supervisor and I will attend the location and assess any defects that may have caused injury. When you receive an enquiry regarding a potential claim, it is also important to attend the location as soon as possible to take photographs of any defects and to take measurements so that you have evidence!
4:00 pm: We complete any pending tasks to ensure a smooth operation for the upcoming day.
5:15 pm: Home time!
Trainee Solicitor Applications
If you are seeking a dynamic training contract in a modern and forward-thinking law firm that offers diverse experiences and support from accomplished lawyers, all while enjoying life in Teesside, then your search has led you to the right place.
If you aspire to join us in September 2024, we are eager to hear from you. We invite applications from both LPC and SQE graduates.
Please complete our online application form anytime from February 1st 2024, until the closing date on April 15th 2024.
For those shortlisted for the next stage of our assessment process, we extend an invitation for you to interview with us in June 2024.