I'm Harith, a sixth-year Solicitor Apprentice at Dentons, currently undertaking my penultimate seat in the Real Estate team. I study one day a week with BPP University and am on track to qualify as a solicitor in September 2026 after completing the SQE.
My (Not-So-Typical) Path to Law
I wish I had an inspirational story about a life-changing court case or a lawyer who showed me the importance of justice. Truth is, frankly, I watched the show 'Suits' and decided a career in law looked like it could be fun.
What I’ve learned since is that my story isn't that unusual. You speak to such a diverse array of people at a law firm, all with their own weird and wonderful paths to where they are now. Almost no one has a straight, narrow, traditional journey – which proves there is no single 'right' way to become a lawyer.
Why an Apprenticeship Over University?
For me, the apprenticeship route was a no-brainer. The ability to gain six years of work experience at a major commercial firm, build a professional network, and achieve financial independence rather than incurring student debt trumped drowning in countless law books at university.
I will admit, there are advantages to going to university, too; and I completely understand those who choose it over the apprenticeship. It is difficult committing yourself at the age of 18 to a (potentially) life-long career, especially if you're not sure that a career in law is for you (which is okay!).
What Does the Job Actually Entail?
Emails. Lots and lots of emails.
Jokes aside, the day-to-day is incredibly varied. A typical week can involve drafting key documents, conducting legal research, and liaising directly with clients. It's not all billable hours, though. The firm actively encourages you to get involved elsewhere, whether that’s joining a diversity network, helping the social committee plan events, or taking on meaningful pro bono work.
Biggest Surprise on the Journey?
Looking back, it is genuinely shocking just how much I have learnt over the past five-odd years. You learn a lot going through the apprenticeship – yes through studies and formal training at work, but mostly (in my view) from all the soft skills and little things you pick up, without realising, as you go along.
The Support System
At Dentons, there’s a multi-layered support system for junior professionals. It primarily comes from three places:
Your Peers: With twenty-five-odd apprentices across the firm, you have a built-in network of people on the exact same path. It’s an invaluable source of advice and support.
Your Team: In each seat, you work closely with trainees, paralegals, and associates who have been in your shoes and are always willing to help.
Firm-Wide Networks: Groups like Fusion (the Asian Professionals Network at Dentons), which I co-chair, provide a fantastic community and platform for connection and professional development outside of your immediate team.
Look Beyond the Classroom. Actively seek out internships, work experience, or even just attend free online lectures. Do anything that shows genuine curiosity and sets you apart from the thousands of other people with the same grades.
Do Your Research. Don't just apply to a firm because you know the name. Understand what they do, who their clients are, and what their values are. Be able to articulate why you want to work there.
Build Commercial Awareness. Knowing the law is important, but understanding the business and world that your clients operate in is critical. Read the news, follow industries, and form opinions.
Be Resilient. Prepare 100% for every application and interview. You might get ten rejections, or a hundred. It doesn't matter. You only need one 'yes'.
How Do I Balance Work with Studying?
I'll admit, it can be tough at times. Particularly as you get to later stages of the apprenticeship when you have to balance far more difficult exams, coursework, and the SQE (qualifying exam for solicitors), all with an (almost) full-time job.
That being said, it can be done. You just have to prioritise and manage your time well. Apprentices are lucky to have Mondays off to study, which should for most of your apprenticeship journey, give you ample time to keep up on university-stuff. When it comes to exam time, the study leave we get helps, but again you just have to learn to prioritise. This is something you definitely learn as you go along.
My Advice for Aspiring Apprentices
Yes, grades are important. I'm not saying you shouldn’t bother with school (you should!).
But it won't get you the job on its own. Your application is a story about you, and you need to build that story.
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