Media
Mid term trainee update – Gabriella Duncan
It’s the time of year when law fairs are taking place, students are returning to studies and future lawyers are applying for traineeships. One of our current trainees, Gabriella Duncan shares her experience of being a trainee here at RCCW. She’s mid way through her traineeship having recently completed her first year in post.
Traineeship to date:
I commenced my Traineeship in August 2021. My first seat was for seven months with the Private Client team. During this time I dealt with varying Private Client matters including the preparation of Wills and Powers of Attorney, as well as the administration of executries. I then moved to our Inverurie Branch in March 2022 to begin my seat in Residential Conveyancing. I was warmly welcomed by the team here. I am currently dealing with all aspects of sale and purchase transactions, re-mortgages, and transfers of title. Both teams have been very supportive and welcoming and it has been very interesting to work both at the firm’s headquarters and in a local branch to see all facets of the firm’s legal offering. I am due to commence my third and final seat in January 2023 working with both the Court and Employment team.
Key things you have learned:
There is no such thing as a silly question. Applying your legal knowledge in practice often does raise some questions as transactions aren’t always straightforward. Not being afraid to ask a question either as a trainee or as a client is important, as is communication. I have also discovered that enlisting the services of a solicitor is often undertaken at major events in people’s lives, often involving change. These can often be positive, weddings, new homes, adoptions, but also at times of loss, which can be emotionally charged. Client care, particularly listening skills, compassion and a calm nature with an ability to provide reassurance are very pertinent skills whatever stage of your career.
What you have most enjoyed?
The team spirit within departments and the wider firm, and the genuine desire to provide the best service possible for clients. There is a strong caring ethos at the firm, making it a really enjoyable place to work.
What you are looking forward to in the next year?
I am looking forward to continuing my seat within residential property. I’m hoping to develop my client facing skills further and deepen my knowledge of this legal area as well as take on more responsibility to better support the department. However, I am also looking forward to commencing my final seat with both the Court and Employment team and challenging myself to something brand new.
Advice and tips for applicants for traineeships
It is important to think about how your previous experience either in work experience, part time jobs or university clubs and societies can transfer to the working world. Team work, communication skills and attention to detail are all important in addition to your legal knowledge. I would advise that you attend the local law fairs and talk to as many different law firms as you can to work out which firm best matches your personal approach and career objectives.
