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Trainee Spotlight: Alix Buchan’s Story
Starting a Legal Traineeship at Raeburns
I began my Traineeship with Raeburn Christie Clark & Wallace (Raeburns) last year in September 2024 after obtaining my LLB and DPLP from Robert Gordon University. As someone who had no legal experience prior to obtaining my traineeship, I was very nervous on my first day, however, once I was introduced to everyone within the firm, the nerves quickly disappeared.
Trainee Induction and First Week at a Law Firm
In my first week as a trainee at Raeburns, my induction included learning how to work the computer systems and the different databases that I would be using to carry out my day-to-day work. The Firm held an introductory coffee morning for the trainees, which gave us the opportunity to get to know who we would be working with in the future.
Gaining Experience in Residential Conveyancing
My first seat was in the Residential Conveyancing department, where my colleagues were very welcoming. From the outset, I was involved in a wide variety of residential transactions including sales, purchases, discharges of standard securities and the transfer of titles. Within two months of beginning my traineeship, I was given the responsibility of settling transactions and was trusted by my colleagues to carry out settlements on my own. Although this was a little bit daunting, I am grateful that I have been trusted to take on these transactions and I always know that I have the support and assistance of my colleagues.
“My traineeship at Raeburns has been both supportive and challenging in the best way – I’ve been trusted with real responsibility from the start, while always knowing I have colleagues ready to guide me whenever I need it.”
Traineeship Support and Mentorship at Raeburns
During my time at Raeburns everyone has been kind, friendly and approachable, and always willing to help me or answer any questions that I may have. My supervisors have been so supportive and have genuinely wanted to help me learn so that I can progress in my legal career. The team at Raeburns truly want to provide you with the best traineeship experience, so they take the time to explain every task and provide you with all the tools that you need to succeed.
Opportunities to Get Involved in Law Firm Events
Raeburns is keen to get you involved in events they are participating in, such as Run Garioch and attending local shows. I have been given the opportunity to represent the Firm at school and university fairs, which have been very rewarding to attend. I have enjoyed the opportunity to share my experiences with other students and prospective trainee applicants and provide them with an insight into how my traineeship has been so far.
Life at Raeburns Beyond Legal Work
The Firm also hosts a wide range of events throughout the year for its employees to get involved in to support its chosen charity, such as bake sales and our very own Wimbledon! It was great fun to challenge colleagues to a game of tennis on the Wii. I also attended the Firm’s annual summer barbeque which was so much fun and gave me ample opportunity to chat to colleagues outwith my immediate department.
Overall, the last year at Raeburns has been a great experience and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store.
Support the Next Generation
At Raeburns, we are passionate about nurturing the talent of tomorrow. Our traineeships give aspiring solicitors hands-on experience across multiple departments, practical responsibility from the start, and the support of a welcoming, knowledgeable team.
“We are committed to investing in the next generation of lawyers and are proud to support emerging professionals who bring strong academic backgrounds and fresh perspectives to our teams. As valued members of the firm, we provide the support, guidance, and opportunities they need to grow and thrive in their professional journey.”
Heather Stephen, Managing PartnerApply for a Traineeship at Raeburns
Download our Traineeship Application Pack to learn more about the process, what to expect, and how to apply for your place on our 2027 programme.
Visit our Traineeship page for more information.
