Education: Modern and medieval languages, Cambridge
Joined: As a trainee 2016
For me, Macfarlanes stood out from the other top City firms in terms of its size, the combination of practice areas and its reputation for excellence.
Having studied the LPC with other Macfarlanes’ trainees in my intake, and having come into the firm for regular talks and socials throughout the LPC year, I felt very comfortable with the people and the place here at Macfarlanes. It has definitely helped me to settle in quickly.
Being a trainee was well-balanced between exciting and challenging. Being one of just 30 trainees means that you are given real responsibility from day one and not shielded from client contact. In fact, on my first day in the private client property group – also my first seat - I was involved in a completion. This could have been overwhelming but thanks to the support from my supervisor, and other solicitors closely guiding me, I always felt there was someone to turn to.
A firm that combines corporate and private client also appealed to me. The opportunity to be involved in advising individuals on their business and private needs, as well as blue chip corporate bodies, is an offering that is unmatched elsewhere. Sitting in the private client team for my first six months has been fascinating; I don’t feel I would have had the same array of experience elsewhere.
It’s daunting to join a place that sets such high expectations across everything it does but the firm’s culture is defined by approachability and respect. Every single person I have come across has been welcoming and helpful. It really does show that the idea of teamwork being at the heart of what Macfarlanes does is not just something you hear at a recruitment fair but the reality of life at the firm.
For me, Macfarlanes stood out from the other top City firms in terms of its size, the combination of practice areas and its reputation for excellence.