Degree: Law LLB Hons, University of Edinburgh

LPC: College of Law, London

Having worked with Henmans in my capacity as a paralegal at a leading insurer, I was confident that it was the right firm at which to undertake my training contract. I joined the firm as a trainee in September 2006 and spent my first seat in the private client department. From day one I was made to feel a valued member of the team and quickly became involved in varied and challenging work with the charities team, who act for several of the most well known charities in the UK.

I moved to the personal injury and clinical negligence department for my second seat where I gained a hands-on introduction to litigation. I received first rate supervision and experience enabling me to learn new skills as well as build on existing ones. The experience I gained interviewing witnesses, drafting statements and applications and regularly attending court hearings gave me a solid foundation for progressing into the professional negligence and commercial litigation department for my current seat.

My work in this department involves defending professionals in several fields, in particular solicitors and accountants and handling general commercial disputes. I am currently assisting with two large complex pieces of litigation, one of which is set to go to trial early next year. I am given interesting and worthwhile tasks to do and find it stimulating and rewarding to see my work contributing to the successful running of cases. Although the work is challenging I do not feel out of my depth as everyone in the team is approachable and always willing to help.

Henmans’ culture is friendly and supportive and lends itself to an excellent work/ life balance. There are frequent sporting and social events run by the firm which are great fun. The trainees get on really well together and are taking part in a national business game as well as running the Oxfordshire Trainee Solicitors Group. So far my training contract has been thoroughly enjoyable and I would certainly recommend Henmans as a great place to work!