A Higgs & Sons training contract aims to deliver a solid, all-round understanding of the business and is made up of 4 x 4-month seats with the final 8-month block usually spent in a preferred seat for qualification. CARLA LEE is a first year trainee and ELLIE NORTON a second year, and here they give an insight into trainee life.
A typical day for Carla Lee, first year trainee
Property Litigation in Bristol:
“This first-hand experience demonstrated the final stages of litigation and how a settlement is reached between the two parties.
“I continued to work on the file and was able to attend court again for the final hearing. This was an excellent practical example of the legal elements of a claim in trespass and mooring rights.”
Neighbour Boundary Dispute:
“This was an invaluable experience as I learned from watching a senior colleague advise our clients on a contested issue how vitally important communication is in establishing a confident and trusting relationship between all parties.
“Actually seeing the law put into action in relation to easements and adverse possession brought the legal process to life, and proved extremely beneficial from a learning viewpoint.”
Ellie Norton, second year trainee
1st seat: Family
2nd seat: Private Client
3rd seat: Dispute Resolution
4th seat: Commercial Property
“I was surprised that as a trainee I was given responsibility straight away, which alongside the ‘open door’ policy of continuous support and supervision really built my confidence from the beginning. Trainees get a huge amount of exposure in each seat, both in terms of complex and varied legal work but also external events and networking opportunities
“Trainees are encouraged to fully immerse themselves in the trainee experience. Since October 2018, I have had the opportunity to mentor a University of Birmingham undergraduate, providing her with an insight into life as a Trainee Solicitor and advising her on vacation schemes/training contract applications, improving her CV and being there to answer any questions she has
“The ability to get involved in various committees within the firm such as the Social and Charity Committees has been fantastic and enables Trainees to strengthen their colleague relationships and raise their profile within the firm. Trainees are also encouraged to run their own charity events throughout the year, such as the Higgs’ Great British Bake Off and an afternoon tea for Mental Health Awareness week.
“Higgs is an extremely inclusive, supportive and friendly place to work, where trainees are valued and invested in. Higgs is proud of its structured training programme, and this results in trainees who upon qualification are totally prepared for life as a solicitor.”