My Brodies traineeship so far

They say time flies when you're having fun, and this is certainly true when I think about my experience at Brodies so far.

Having secured my traineeship two years in advance, I was more than ready to begin my legal career with the firm after completing my studies. Before starting my traineeship, I was given the chance to join the firm as a project assistant over the summer within Litigation, in the insurance and risk team. This gave me the opportunity to jump right in and get to grips with Brodies' policies and systems, all while meeting my new colleagues and immersing myself in the firm's culture. Fast forward four months and it was finally time to transition into my new role as trainee.

Life as a trainee in litigation

As I had already been working in the insurance and risk team, it felt fitting that I stay there for my first seat. The team deals with liability claims covering diverse areas, from casualties to professional negligence to shipping. I was based in recoveries, who primarily deal with credit hire claims following road traffic accidents. The day-to-day work there often involved drafting pleadings, liaising with clients and preparing for court.

Life as a litigation trainee pushed me out my comfort zone as I was given high levels of responsibility from the outset. I was responsible for managing my own caseload, dealing with claims from their inception all the way through to settlement. While this was, at times, challenging, it was also extremely rewarding, and I was supported every step of the way.

I have also had both the opportunity to appear in court myself and assist my colleagues with their preparations for court. My experience as a litigation trainee has undoubtedly improved my confidence and provided me with transferable skills which I now use in my second seat within the firm's corporate team.

From contentious to transactional work

I knew for my second seat that I wanted to try something completely different to litigation. I joined the corporate team in April and I have already had the opportunity to get involved with various different projects, from attending exciting client meetings to drafting ancillary transaction documents.

Something which stood out to me when applying to Brodies was the wealth of experience and talent within the firm and I now feel very fortunate to be able to learn from the very best.

Growing your network

Life at Brodies is not 'all work and no play' as trainees are actively encouraged to attend business development and social events to broaden their network. So far, I have participated in a Career Insight Day and helped plan a corporate session for the PRIME work experience programme.

I have also volunteered to mentor two university students through two separate mentoring programmes: the Brodies x Aberdeen University Commercial Law Society and the Lawscot Foundation. I have really enjoyed getting the opportunity to participate and help those who want to pursue a career in law. On top of business development events, Brodies also hosts various social events for all colleagues and trainees to enjoy from mini golf to pizza socials.

Last, but by no means least, one of the best parts about completing your traineeship at Brodies is the relationships you build with the other trainees. Not only do we have lunch together in the office, we also regularly meet up outside of work. Everyone is very supportive and on hand to help each other with any tips and tricks they have learnt along the way.

I can confidently say that the last ten months at Brodies has been a huge learning experience but also a lot of fun. I cannot wait to see what is waiting for me as I continue my traineeship.

Applications for 2025 traineeships at Brodies are now open. Apply today!