Give a brief overview of your role at the firm now, when you joined and your background before joining
I am a paralegal apprentice and have gained a wealth of experience on the real estate team. I am going to be joining the Litigation & Dispute Resolution team from September 2022 onwards. Before joining Clifford Chance, I attended college where I studied Law, English Language and Geography. Whilst studying my A-Levels I worked part time in retail and hospitality. This work experience gave me the skills to be able to balance work and studying.
Being in my role as a paralegal apprentice involves four days of gaining experience 'on the job' – completing a range of tasks and work on projects. One day a week, I have the time to study and work towards my end point assessments.
What is it that attracted you to your career within law/ the legal sector?
I was attracted to a career in law through studying A-Level law. I found reading cases really interesting and enjoyed watching law related programmes such as 'Suits', that provided a glamourous insight into what it takes to be a lawyer. I completed some work experience in the legal sector whilst at college, which further attracted me to a career in law!
What keeps you at the firm/ why do you stay?
There's a very inclusive culture at the firm, and the company has great values. There is lots of different opportunities and events at Clifford Chance, I particularly enjoy attending lunch & learns with all my other colleagues
Tell me about the most rewarding experience you have had at Clifford Chance?
The most rewarding moments at work are the day to days, when completing a task or project, it is rewarding when this is completed successfully and in collaboration with others. Receiving positive feedback for my input in projects is also rewarding and gives me satisfaction and confidence that I am doing a good job in my role.
What advice would you give to someone considering Clifford Chance / OR a career within the legal sector?
I would advise them to ask questions and make lots of notes – this is really important and will help them to succeed.
What's the best piece of advice you've received since joining/ OR the your best lesson/takeaway
The best advice I have received is not to be afraid to ask questions. I've learned that asking questions can help improve understanding as well as the quality of your work.
What was it that first struck you about the people you met at Clifford Chance?
That everyone is really helpful and approachable.
Tell me about the most exciting matter/project you have worked on recently?
The most exciting matter that I've worked on recently is proofing project document reviews, which involves reviewing documents for specific clients and processes .
What motivates you/ OR what makes your worth it for you?
The satisfaction of completing tasks well, and gaining new skills motivates me. Having opportunities to meet new people and be part of groups outside of the job role is really rewarding and makes it 'worth it' for me.
