Meet Sofie and read about being a Trainee Solicitor

Womble Bond Dickinson is a very unique place to work. It is one of the only firms in the country that has a transatlantic reach whilst maintaining such a strong regional presence. This, among many other qualities about the firm, is why I chose to apply for a training contract at WBD. I had always wanted to work in London and was set on beginning my training contract here but the intimidating nature of many city corporate law firms was daunting and I was unsure whether I would be able to gain a training contract offer in such a competitive market. Luckily I managed to gain some work experience at WBD in their Bristol office and therefore received an insight into the firm, its people and the culture. Immediately I witnessed the collaborative nature of WBD, one of the firms core values, and how every department and position within the firm plays a key role in delivering excellence to clients. It was exciting to hear about the recent merger with the US firm, Womble Carlyle, and the possibilities this meant for WBD's future and the opportunities this could open up for its employees.

The application process consists of a generic online form coupled with an essay based on a commercial issue. Successful applicants are then invited to participate in online psychometric tests and may then be invited to complete a video interview. If successful, candidates will be invited to an assessment day in the office where they can meet current trainees and other WBD employees and participate in assessed team activities and short interviews. The individuals selected from this day will be asked to do a week's work experience/vacation scheme at the firm, sitting within a team and replicating the usual role of a trainee. At the end of the week each candidate will have a final interview with a partner and HR team member before finally being offered a training contract. It is a thorough process but one from which I gained a lot of experience and exposure to office etiquette, interview practice and what is expected of a trainee solicitor.

I began my training contract in September 2021, sitting in the Professional Risks team in London and will now be beginning my third seat at the firm. The last year has been incredibly insightful, fast-paced and extremely busy (as expected). The role of a trainee solicitor is demanding and adapting to a new firm, people and work load is challenging. A typical day would include attending client meetings to take attendance notes, conducting research and preparing notes on the specific legal arguments in the matter and drafting substantial documents such as letters of response, reports and settlement agreements. A less typical day may include a mediation, court attendance and business development opportunities. Regardless, the role is varied and interesting and throughout the two years trainees are given the best insight into the legal career and the corporate world. Trainees are also given the opportunity to contribute to the firms wider business. I am a member of both the CSR Committee and Sports and Social Committee at WBD; brainstorming, organising and attending various events and activities both internally and externally demonstrating the firms commitment to growing our own personal brands and networks as future solicitors as well as the firm's brand.

WBD has taught me a lot so far and I am very excited to enter the final year of my training contract and continue my career towards becoming a Solicitor. The firm has amazing opportunities to offer, working with exciting clients on interesting projects whilst also maintaining a core support system and team work environment. From Partners through to PA's, everyone is on hand to support the trainees in our development and our open door policy is truly reflective of day-to-day life at WBD.