Laura Kincaid, Dickinson Dees

Laura Kincaid is a trainee solicitor at Dickinson Dees LLP, working in the commercial property department. She graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a degree in English language and linguistics.

Choosing a training contract in Newcastle

When I was choosing my training contract I knew I wanted to be involved in high quality work and have a lot of
responsibility. I have certainly found this in Newcastle: during my training contract I have had the opportunity to manage my own files and have been given as much responsibility as I have asked for. There is also a good work/life balance, and since starting my training contract I have been involved in a number of client and teambuilding events outside of the office and have had plenty of time for life outside of work.

A corporate law trainee seat

It usually takes me around 25 minutes to get to work and average office hours are 9.00 am to 6.00 pm, although in the corporate department they are often slightly longer. Many people walk to work because the city is so compact. I’m involved in a lot of private finance initiative (PFI) work and on a typical day I’ll be responsible for reviewing contracts, preparing documents, updating clients – mainly by telephone – and going to meetings. Many of these are on site around the north east, which means I have the opportunity to travel around the region. I find PFI work particularly interesting as I feel I’m helping people through my work.

Meetings are an important aspect of my work: as a team we meet once a week and there are also regular planning and progress meetings with mentors to attend.

Working as a lawyer outside London

There’s a great quality of life here: it’s less frantic than in London and the cost of living is relatively low. There is also plenty to do as the city is being regenerated and beautiful beaches and countryside are within easy reach.