Media
Lauren Neely- Traineeship Update
Where are you from?
I am from a town just south of Glasgow, called Hamilton.
Where did you study?
I attended Strathaven Academy before moving to Aberdeen to study my LLB (Honours) in Law and my Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Aberdeen.
Why did you apply to RCCW?
Being new to Aberdeen, I wasn’t familiar with the local law firms. I attended the University Law Fair and had the opportunity to speak to RCCW staff. Despite it only being a short chat, I was struck by their caring and welcoming ethos towards both staff and clients. When I researched the firm further, I really felt that their values aligned with mine. I was also impressed by the fact that some of the current Partners had started as trainees and progressed to partnership level. I felt that this long standing and progressive relationship demonstrated mutual loyalty between staff and RCCW, which I found very appealing.
What departments have you worked across?
I am currently in my first seat which is Residential Conveyancing. I was slightly nervous at first as I had no practical experience of this area, only my theoretical knowledge from my degree. However, the experienced team have taught me a lot and have been very patient with my never ending list of questions! Thanks to this continued support and assistance I now feel confident managing my own caseload.
I am very much looking forward to the rest of my traineeship and what it will bring!
How would you describe your experience so far?
Beginning a traineeship is a daunting process, however everyone has been very welcoming and supportive. Applying your academic learning into actual legal practice is challenging to begin with. I am grateful that the team understands that we are trainees and are here to learn and develop. Everyone has been diligent in ensuring I understand what I am doing, why and where and how it fits into the legal conveyancing process.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the new challenges that I have faced so far with the grateful support of colleagues. Despite only being a trainee for 6 months, all of these factors have increased my confidence and understanding immeasurably.
What one piece of advice would you give a future Trainee?
I would definitely recommend taking comprehensive notes. Most of what you will do as a trainee is entirely new as it’s the practical application of legal theory. I would recommend taking notes on everything – irrespective of how trivial it may seem at the time. Having done this I have found it immensely helpful. By referring back to my notes it helps to refresh my memory, which serves not only as a reminder but reassurance of what I am doing.
I would also recommend asking all of the questions you have. There really are no silly questions, apart from the one that you don’t ask. People do understand because they too have been a trainee so they appreciate that actually applying the law is all new to you and often very different from the theory or case studies!
To find out more about RCCW Traineeships and how to apply for 2025 entry please click here.
