Meet Corey - Trainee

Corey studied Law at Cardiff University and started his training contract in March 2025. 

Why did you apply to Slaughter and May? 

I applied to Slaughter and May after attending a recruitment event where I had the opportunity to hear directly from an associate at the firm. What particularly resonated with me was his description of the firm’s culture - it was not only its commitment to excellence, which I expected, but its genuine emphasis on collaboration. It became clear that collaboration at Slaughter and May is not merely a buzzword, but a fundamental part of how the firm operates. The associate spoke candidly about his experiences, conveying a sincere enjoyment of both the work and his colleagues. Being state school educated and neurodivergent, it was important to me that collaboration included utilising my background and experiences. That conversation made me want to be part of a firm where teamwork and diversity and inclusion are genuinely valued and utilised.

How did you find the application process?

The application process itself was straightforward. I found the interview and article discussion both challenging and insightful. As it was my first legal interview, I was uncertain about what to expect. The article discussion tested my ability to think critically, analyse complex information, and communicate clearly under pressure. During the process, I began to recognise how the skills I had developed in a sales environment, such as active listening, adaptability, and persuasive communication, were transferable and highly relevant to the legal profession. Although the experience was initially daunting, it ultimately proved to be a valuable learning opportunity that significantly boosted my confidence.

What’s a typical day like as a trainee solicitor in your current seat? 

Since starting, I can confirm that no two days are the same! That said, there is a rhythm to the work. I usually arrive around 9am, check my emails and calendar, and plan out my day. Tasks vary, but often include legal research or drafting initial versions of documents. Trainees are frequently invited to join calls with supervisors and clients, where we take notes and track next steps. These calls are incredibly insightful, not just for understanding the legal issues, but for observing how supervisors communicate and manage client expectations. It’s a great way to learn the soft skills that are just as important as technical knowledge. 

In and amongst this are the thorough training sessions that the trainees have access to. This can vary from subject specific training for the particular group you are sat in to firmwide trainee training that covers the legal essentials required to practice law in a commercial law firm.

I am currently sitting in Financing, which is one of the seats that all trainees at Slaughter and May are required to do. My first seat was in Pensions, Employments and Incentives, and I will be spending my final two seats in Corporate and then Disputes. 

What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?

What I love most about my job is the dynamic nature of the work. There are so many moving parts, both within the firm and in the external environment. I enjoy the challenge of thinking laterally to manage them. Whether it’s adapting to a new client need or managing competing deadlines, the work keeps me on my toes. It’s intellectually stimulating, challenging and genuinely interesting, which makes even the busiest days rewarding.

What has been a highlight of your experience so far during your training contract?

One of the most memorable experiences so far has been attending the High Court for a pension’s litigation matter. This opportunity offered invaluable exposure to a complex and high-profile case, where trainees played a pivotal role in supporting the smooth running of proceedings behind the scenes. It was particularly rewarding to observe how the legal team’s meticulous preparation directly informed and strengthened the barrister’s advocacy. Witnessing the delivery of arguments with clarity and conviction in support of our client was both inspiring and insightful.