A Day in the Life of a Private Client Trainee Solicitor

Stepping into the legal world can be a daunting task, especially as a trainee solicitor as this is the final stage on our road to becoming solicitors. It is also where we learn to apply the knowledge we have learned throughout our LLB and Diploma to real-world legal scenarios with real-world implications. Each day is a blend of challenges and rewards, where I help clients navigate some of life’s most significant moments. Here’s a look at what a typical day looks like for me—filled with meaningful interactions and learning opportunities.

The Morning: Getting Started

My working day usually kicks off around 8:45 AM. I set up my desk for the day ahead and grab a coffee. Time recording is part of our routine, so I take a moment to jot down the key files I will be working on for that day and what needs to be done. This isn’t just a formality; it helps me keep track of my work and ensures our clients know how their time is being spent.

Once I have a clear picture of the day ahead, I get to work. As a trainee in the private client department, the majority of my caseload consists of Wills, Powers of Attorneys, and Executries. Firstly, I’m finishing off a draft Will for a new client who is coming in to sign this afternoon. I pull up my instructions which I took from the client at our initial meeting, ensuring I have captured their wishes. It’s satisfying to know that my work can have a real impact on someone’s future.

After finishing the draft, I discuss it with my supervising solicitor for feedback (and hopefully approval of the draft). Their guidance is crucial, especially when it comes to the finer details. It’s comforting to know I have my colleague’s support in drafting these complex documents.

Mid-Morning: Further Drafting and Investigation

Next on my agenda is to work on some of my executry files. With this executry I am taking the date of death values of the assets which the deceased owned and preparing the C1 application for Confirmation. I have all of the relevant information except for one item, of which I have yet to hear back from the asset holder. To expedite this I call up the asset holder, and after going through the relevant security questions and protocols, I can speak to a representative. As I have already sent in the Death Certificate of the deceased and other relevant information, the representative is able to provide me with the date of death value over the phone. With this, I make a detailed file note of the conversation and proceed to add the final value to the C1 form.

At this stage, I proceed to get the C1 checked over by my supervising solicitor and after making some adjustments, I post this off to the Executor of the deceased’s estate for approval. Until I hear back from the Executor I cannot proceed further with this file, so it is on to the next. I draft up a few Powers of Attorney and get these prepared for review by my supervisor and then the client.

Lunchtime

After a busy morning, it’s time for lunch. I usually bring my lunch with me (in an attempt to eat healthily). Here I can have some informal moments with my colleagues, unwind, and get recharged for the afternoon ahead. I believe that maintaining good relationships with our colleagues is just as valuable as the work we do. We are a team and there is often overlaps with files across different departments (for example I will liaise with the conveyancing team if there is an executry sale of a property).

Some casual time with colleagues acts as a reminder that we’re all in this together, learning and growing along the way and is usually a great mood booster.

The Afternoon: Meeting Clients

After lunch, I prepare for my signing appointment with the client whose Will I was drafting earlier in the day. Meeting clients is one of my favourite parts of the job, even if it can be a little nerve-wracking at times. Many clients are understandably anxious about certain meetings, so I make it a point to create a welcoming atmosphere.

In our meeting, I present the draft Will to the client and talk them through it, in case they have any last-minute changes or thoughts. The client is satisfied and signs the document and at this stage, I advise them of the next steps, thank them for their time, and go on to the next task.

Late Afternoon: Wrapping Up

As the day draws to a close, I log my time for the day’s tasks, ensuring everything is recorded accurately. This helps me keep track of my progress and plan for tomorrow.

Before leaving, I glance over my calendar for any upcoming meetings or deadlines to have a firm idea of the day ahead.

Conclusion: The Journey Ahead

As I pack up for the day, I feel satisfied. Each day is a mix of challenges and learning opportunities, and I appreciate the journey I’m on. Helping clients navigate significant life events—whether it’s drafting a Will, guiding them through a Power of Attorney, or assisting with estate administration, is a very fulfilling.

I’m grateful for the support from my colleagues and the relationships I’m building. Each interaction reminds me that I’m not just learning to be a solicitor; I’m becoming someone who can make a positive impact on people’s lives.

With each day, I’m gaining more confidence and knowledge. And while the road ahead will be filled with challenges, I’m excited for what’s to come. Being a trainee solicitor isn’t just about the legal work; it’s about being there for clients when they need it most, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile.