Trainee solicitor — Faye Cooke

As a trainee solicitor, Faye undertakes a range of legal activities. Discover her top tips for securing a traineeship

What degree did you study?

I gained my LLB law degree in 2021 and Diploma in Professional Legal Practice (DPLP) in 2022, both online from Robert Gordon University (RGU).

How did you get your job?

I previously worked as a legal librarian for Turcan Connell, a private client law firm. A year into my studies, while on maternity leave, I applied for a traineeship with my firm and was offered a training contract which began two years later.

What's a typical working day like?

My days can include non-chargeable tasks such as writing an article or committee work, or executry administration, e.g. writing letters to banks, preparing inheritance tax forms and updating executors on progress.

I have catch-up meetings with senior team members to discuss matters I am assisting with and might draft a simple will and send it to the fee earner for review.

I usually lunch with the other trainees. Most weeks, I attend a lunchtime seminar which counts towards my continuing professional development (CPD).

Examples of other typical tasks include returning calls from the beneficiary of a trust, looking into research queries, emailing the finance and records teams or dropping off title deeds to a property colleague and discussing the executors' instructions.

My mentor and I also meet every three months to discuss my performance. I update the review form, which we then talk through, identifying any development needs.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Building rapport with individuals and helping them through difficult times is very rewarding. Private client work is also intellectually challenging, which I enjoy.

What are the challenges?

The things I most enjoy are perhaps also the most challenging. We have to manage clients' expectations and it has been a steep learning curve for me in terms of my work management and organisation skills.

In what way is your degree relevant?

The LLB gave me a foundation in the legal principles, whereas the DPLP is more practical. My first degree was in English literature and all lawyers are expected to have strong written communication.

What advice can you give to others wanting to get into this job?

• While securing an internship is nice, experience can include volunteering (e.g. with Citizens Advice) or customer service roles. Not everyone has a family member or friend who can offer legal work experience, so speak to your careers service instead or get in touch with The Law Society.
• Try to attend law fairs and employer insight events. You will get an idea of whether they are the right fit for you and will find out what they are looking for in a candidate. The exhibitors might remember you when your application lands in their inbox.
• Many people work as paralegals or in support roles before and after completing their legal studies. Law firms often use legal recruitment agencies to source candidates so, if traineeship offers are proving elusive, it is worth finding an agent.

Find out more

• Read all about being a solicitor in Scotland.
• Take a look at the law sector.