Heather Webster on life as a trainee with Allan McDougall Solicitors
I am a second-year trainee working in the personal injury team of Allan McDougall Solicitors. I am also involved in some employment law work. Before starting my traineeship, I studied Law and Spanish Law at the University of Aberdeen and the Diploma at the University of Glasgow. I began working part-time as a legal secretary during the Diploma before securing a traineeship with Allan McDougall Solicitors.
Motivation to become a lawyer
I am someone who enjoys learning about everything and anything. A career in law is very attractive to me because it is such a wide and varying area. I am constantly learning about new topics and interacting with new people. The application of this knowledge also has a very real impact on the lives of our clients. It is very fulfilling to help clients navigate some of the most difficult situations that they will experience in life. Allan McDougall Solicitors offered a traineeship in their personal injury team. The circumstances in which accidents can happen are so vast and varied, from medical negligence in a hospital to someone simply tripping on uneven paving out on the street. Working for a medium-sized law firm allows you to be very involved with many different aspects of the work carried out by the firm.
Highlights of working at Allan McDougall Solicitors
The best part of working at Allan McDougall Solicitors is the people. Everyone is very friendly and supportive. Having a supportive work environment is crucial for getting the most out of your traineeship. I needed a workplace where I could feel comfortable asking any questions that cropped up. I am happy to say that I found this environment at Allan McDougall Solicitors. I also get to work with several different solicitors, allowing me to observe the different ways in which cases can be run. This has been helpful for me to develop my own style of working.
Involvement in marketing and CSR activities
Allan McDougall Solicitors sponsors different organisations as part of its marketing and CSR activities. I have been to several of the events run by Scottish Disability Sports to help out while also representing the firm. The firm is also very involved with Holy Rood High School. I have attended an event at the school to talk to students about a potential career in law. The firm also carries out legal work for trade union members. I have been to one of the events hosted by one of Scotland’s largest trade unions to ensure that members know about the legal services we offer. I have very much enjoyed talking to such a wide range of people about what we do.
Advice for applicants
Regarding interviews, the best advice I can give is to try to relax. Your personality will come out much better if you are calm, and the firm will get a much better idea of the sort of trainee you would be. I would also suggest that you use the interview as a way to learn more about the firm, so you can decide whether you would want to work there. For example, prepare some questions to ask the people interviewing you.
Best of luck to all applicants for the 2023 traineeships!
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