Meet Leila - Apprentice

Why did you decide on a career in law?

The work experiences I did in year 12 were of great importance in choosing a career in law. I did various virtual work experiences, which allowed me to understand that law was a lot more diverse and interesting than it initially appears. I was really interested in green financing, international finance, arbitration and IP law modules during my work experiences. It made me realise that law looks towards the future, and closely interacts with commercial/societal change. Whether that be innovations in tech, medicine, science, or constitutional/political change – I find that aspect of the law really fascinating.

I also did an in person work experience for a couple of weeks in the legal team of a company. I was able to learn about the metaverse, technology advances, crypto, NFT's etc. and research the legal challenges these pose to both individuals and commercial entities. It was this that solidified my interest in both the academics and practice of commercial law and made me decide upon a legal career.

Why opt for an apprenticeship over other qualification routes?

I wanted to explore outside of the traditional university route, as I was keen to learn law academically whilst being able to apply it practically. I felt that this would better prepare me for becoming a lawyer in the future.

How did you find and apply for your apprenticeship?

Funny enough, it was my mum who found the solicitor apprenticeship when I was still in year 12. It was after that, that I started to research apprenticeships at different firms and get a clear picture of the types of firms I wanted to apply to – Dentons was actually the first firm I applied to, so I guess I have good intuition!

I applied for the apprenticeship at the start of year 13, alongside writing my personal statement and UCAS forms (as I also applied to universities).

Why did you choose that particular office location?

Dentons recruits Solicitor Apprentices to their London and Milton Keynes offices. I applied to the London office, as I wanted to be where I felt my role as an apprentice would be most dynamic. London is one of the most diverse cities globally. It is at the centre of commercial practice, societal change, and I think that reflects on a legal perspective too. I felt that especially in commercial law, the London office would allow me to experience the most dynamic, diverse and current legal work.

Tell us about your apprenticeship (length, structure, level, the qualification you’ll receive at the end etc)

The solicitor apprenticeship at Dentons is six years in duration. So, it is a commitment, but I think you'd be surprised at how quickly this time goes. Also, as it is a level 7 apprenticeship you will be qualifying as a solicitor at the end of it, (upon successful completion of all the academic components of the apprenticeship). By the time you complete the apprenticeship you will have an LLB Law degree and will have completed both parts of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

What kind of tasks do you complete on a typical day?

It varies – currently I'm in Real Estate, so a lot of the work revolves around dealing with the Land Registry, submitting applications to them, I regularly draft various documents/forms for property transactions. Sometimes tasks require me to do legal research, proofreading, or general document management. Other tasks involve me liaising with clients to explain queries raised by the Land Registry (requisitions).

How do you balance working with studying?

I think the best thing to do is ensure that you leave time to study and fulfil the academic components of the apprenticeship, alongside work and life commitments. For apprentices at Dentons, we have Monday as a reserved Study Day which I'm able to use to do all my university work for the week.

Can you debunk a myth about working in law?

That working in a law firm is boring.

I can genuinely tell you this isn't true - at least from my perspective. In my time here, I have gone clay-pigeon shooting, darts, afternoon tea's, sushi evenings, pizza nights … things I never would have done outside of the apprenticeship. There is so much to get involved with by way of socials and professional/apprentice network groups both internally and externally.

What advice can you give to other aspiring apprentices?

Research, Research, Research.

There is so much out there for aspiring apprentices now, and that applies to most sectors. There are podcasts for aspiring apprentices, TikTok accounts from current apprentices who speak of their experiences of apprentice life, and LinkedIn is a great resource to connect with existing apprentices and other aspiring apprentices too. Many apprentices are happy to connect with aspiring apprentices on LinkedIn and answer questions that they may have.

Try to choose firms that align with what you want to get out of the apprenticeship. Are they international/regional? What specialisms/sectors do they have? How is the study/work balance? Do they have the right access requirements? – researching firms before applying will allow you to feel that you would enjoy working there.

Commercial Awareness

This is a good thing to develop for various apprenticeships, not just legal. It is good to understand how the commercial world works, and to show you understand this. This can be developed by keeping up to date with the news and thinking about how you can apply this to a commercial (and/or legal) practice. What opportunities/issues/queries/effects could they raise?

Be yourself

Ultimately, alongside having the required skills, qualifications, etc., interviewers are looking for someone that they think would be easy/enjoyable to work with. So, it is good to show your personality and interests in your application/interviews.

What are you looking forward to over the next year of your apprenticeship?

We have an upcoming seat change, in which apprentices/trainees change the departments they work in. I'm looking forward to exploring a new type of work in this new department, meeting new people, and learning new skills.