Degree: Law degree from the University of Durham
LPC: Oxford Institute of Legal Practice
On graduating from my degree, I was faced with the daunting task of applying and securing a training contract. During my interview with Henmans, it immediately became clear to me that the firm that was right for me. It seemed to offer the chance to work with first-rate clients whilst providing a friendly atmosphere and a fantastic work-life balance, and this has proved to be exactly the case.
I joined in September 2007, and my first seat was in the Personal Injury department. I quickly became involved with the files of my supervisor and her assistant, and was able to gain first hand experience of attending trials, and even representing clients at a couple of small agency hearings myself. Varied research, instructions to counsel and medical experts, reviewing medical reports and having input into the advice to the client were all part of my daily workload.
My second seat was private client. From day one I was given files of my own to run, which was an extremely rewarding and exciting experience, and really ensures that you get a good feel of how you will work on qualification. The supervision in this seat was superb and the work was extremely varied. This department is one of Henmans’ largest, but every face was friendly and always willing to discuss any concerns or observations I had about my workload or files.
I am now in my third seat, which is split between the employment and corporate departments. I was particularly excited to be given this opportunity as this is a brand new seat at Henmans. In contrast to my previous two seats, these are both smaller departments, but the variety is just as great. One day is never the same as the next, and work can vary between considering the merits of an employment claim, to amending a licence agreement for a university client, to researching a great deal of different client queries.
In addition to the workload, there are various seminars to attend, whether arranged internally or externally. Trainees are welcome to attend these firm-wide, regardless of what department they are based in, so that you can really get a feel for the areas which are of particular interest to you.
Work aside, there is a great social atmosphere at Henmans. I have made some close friends during my training, with trainees and other staff members alike, and there is always someone to be having lunch with in our café. We are encouraged to become involved with the social committee, and there are regular Friday night drinks evenings held, whether at a country pub out in the sticks or at a local hostelry just down the road from the office.
I would encourage anyone to apply to Henmans. You will be given great training and also make some lifelong friends along the way.