Barbara Forman, Allen & Overy
Barbara Forman is a trainee solicitor with international law firm Allen & Overy LLP, currently working in their banking (global loans) department. She graduated from Cambridge with a degree in law in 2004.
Why a graduate career in law?
I decided on a legal career because I realised through various work placements that I quickly got frustrated with what I saw as ‘waffle’. Law is satisfying because you work out specific problems, provide concrete solutions and have a clear result at the end.
Typical work as a trainee in a City firm
I wanted challenging, varied and, most importantly, international work. I now work with people of different nationalities in the office and am also in regular contact with barristers and clients from various jurisdictions – not to mention having the chance to spend one of my four seats in an international office. The only problem is knowing which one to choose.
The commercial law experience
I am currently based at Canary Wharf. It’s a great place to work: the views from the 32nd floor are unsurpassable (forget the London Eye!) and there are enough bars to keep us happy after work. On an average day I work 9.30 am to 7.00 pm but this varies. The same is true of the work I do: I have been involved in small, discrete parts of transactions as well as managing a refinancing deal. I often review and amend security and finance documents or prepare documents for submission at Companies House. It is then satisfying to attend a closing meeting and know that all my hard work has led to a real result.
Working in a legal team
The people you work with turn work into a job you love: a bit of banter and some smiles go a long way. Everyone around me has been explaining things and showing me the ropes and I feel everyone was – and still is – at pains to ensure I’m having a good time.