Meet Sophia

Departments to date: Technology Regulation; Life Sciences Transactions 

University: Cambridge University; BPP Law School (Waterloo); BPP Law School (Holborn)

Degree: Classics (BA); Theology (MPhil); GDL; LPC

Day in a life of a trainee: 

A typical day in the life of a trainee at Covington really depends on your practice area and, even within the same team, no two days are quite the same. I have completed seats in Technology Regulation and Life Sciences Transactions, both of which have given me a varied mix of work. 

In Life Sciences Transactions, I might spend the day carrying out due diligence for a deal. This involves reviewing agreements in a data room, identifying and summarising potential red flags, and helping to prepare a report that enables the client to assess the proposed transaction. On another day, I might assist with negotiating and drafting an agreement. This could involve producing a first draft from a precedent, taking detailed notes during in-person negotiations, or proofreading the agreement. Each practice area also holds team meetings and specialist training sessions, which are a valuable way to learn about colleagues’ work and develop a deeper understanding of the practice area. 

When I have capacity, I also enjoy working on one of the firm’s pro bono projects. One initiative I have worked on is run by Kids in Need of Defence, an NGO that provides legal advice to undocumented children and families. My work has included drafting Leave to Remain applications and carrying out interviews with clients to prepare supporting witness statements. It is extremely rewarding and has given me more confidence in speaking with clients. Individual practice groups also work on their own pro bono matters. During my Technology Regulation seat, for example, I helped a charity prepare data protection documents and assess whether its practices complied with relevant data protection requirements. 

Outside of client and pro bono work, trainees have regular training sessions, and supervisors have a budget to take trainees out for lunch during their seat, which is a great opportunity to catch up and receive informal guidance. The firm also holds an office lunch on Wednesdays and has a range of social activities to get involved in. For example, I joined the DEI book club, where we discuss new books monthly over delicious treats (usually Lola’s cupcakes or Buns from Home!). 

The time I leave the office varies depending on what I am working on and how busy the team is. Some days follow a predictable schedule, while others require us to work late toward an urgent deadline. When we do need to stay late, the firm provides a budget for dinner, which is always much appreciated!