Being newly qualified, you get to enjoy more responsibility than when you were a trainee, while still being afforded the time and training needed to develop as a lawyer.
Tell us about the work you're involved in as an energy lawyer?
In the projects, energy and infrastructure team we act for a range of clients in the sector, from smaller energy companies to large multinational super-majors and operators. I am lucky to be able to work on a variety of projects, and to be well supported by experienced lawyers while doing so. The range of clients, and the diversity of the work that they require, means that no two days are the same.
I've been involved in large scale client facing work such as diligence projects and contract reviews, advised on legal issues surrounding industry regulation, and assisted in transactional matters involving multiple complex and interacting agreements. The team focuses on developing knowledge. This can be internal, for our clients or for the wider industry, and has led me to presenting to the team on key topics, drafting training material for external legal teams, and presenting at our regular energy academy sessions which seek to inform industry members of key updates in the sector.
Why did you decide to be an energy lawyer?
Prior to joining Brodies, I had little experience in energy work, but was excited when the opportunity came up, having enjoyed the elective course while studying for my Diploma in Legal Practice at Aberdeen University. We are at an exciting stage in the energy transition, which means that it’s a great time to get involved in work in a shifting landscape, with new and interesting problems to be solved for clients.
Why do you enjoy working at Brodies?
There's lots to enjoy about working at Brodies. Beyond the interesting legal work, positive attitude towards development and supportive teams, it's a firm where everyone is pulling in the same direction. With flexible working and strong core values centred around innovation and collaboration, Brodies is a progressive firm and a great place to grow as a lawyer in any area.
At Brodies, there is a clear pathway for progression. From my stage as a solicitor and beyond, the firm is supportive and considerate of your development, maintaining regular discussions around meeting career goals and targets. There are also secondment opportunities (including to Brodies Middle East LLP), colleague networks and support mechanisms for networking within the industry that supports individual and collective growth.
