Leontia McArdle, DLA Piper LLP
Leontia McCardle is a trainee at DLA Piper LLP. She graduated with a degree in English and American studies at the University of Manchester in 2003. Her current training contract seat is in the commercial litigation department at her law firm.
Working for a global law firm in Manchester
I chose my law firm because its lawyers operate at a national and international level, attracting high-profile clients and top quality work. I wanted to work in the Manchester office because of my university connections to the city, and to enjoy the benefits of being part of a smaller trainee solicitor intake. The office is friendly and down to earth.
Early responsibility for trainee solicitors
My working hours are typically 8.30 am to 7.00 pm, though this can vary depending on workload and deadlines. I assist a number of partners and junior solicitors in the department. A lot of our clients are banks and I deal directly with clients either by e-mail or telephone on a daily basis.
Graduate recruitment of new trainees
Trainees are encouraged to assume a lot of responsibility and I am able to run my own files (under supervision, of course). I undertake a variety of tasks including: research; instructing enquiry agents and barristers; representing clients in court; and drafting. I have particularly enjoyed attending court and the exposure to ‘real law’ in practice. The departments encourage trainees to become fully involved in all trainee exercises, so even with a busy working schedule I am still involved in graduate recruitment and corporate social responsibility activities.
In five years’ time I still envisage enjoying my work at the firm and continuing to live in the North West area – the water cooler talk of football on Monday mornings is too lively to give up!