Fraser found it "tough" describing a week in the life of a trainee. Read his blog to find out why...

On reflection, it is actually difficult to describe a week in the life of a trainee at Gilson Gray. I have been with the Firm for over 18 months.  This equates to 86 weeks now and yet, somehow, each week seems to offer a new challenge. Every week I start with a new to-do list which includes new items for the week ahead.

As a partner-led Firm, the traineeship offers a great chance to work directly with the partners. Once the initial fear of those terrible first drafts being handed directly to a partner wore off, I realised there was so much more to learn from this type of traineeship. I was encouraged to think beyond the legal solution to what the client wanted and how the Firm, as a business, could service those needs.

My first year was spent working across both Renewable Energy and Commercial Real Estate.  As opposed to a speedy rotation of seats, I was fortunate to experience varied work in these two busy departments across the full first year. One of the most rewarding elements was the further responsibility and tasks which I undertook as I progressed and gained confidence.  I was soon progressing matters independently.  There was a genuine expectation of quality performance from both partners as the work was, ultimately, for clients.

I am now in my second year and working in the litigation department. The work is completely different to that of my first year, and I recently completed my first appearance in court. The work itself varies from research, client engagement, drafting court documents and assisting partners with larger projects. We are currently preparing for a three-day Proof in the Court of Session, which was continued following the previous four-day Proof.

I had never expected to be introduced to the business elements of the Firm at such an early stage. Very much like the buzz-word “commercial awareness”, I knew it was there but hadn’t appreciate the practical aspects. It is, however, clearly an important part of developing a legal career.

A major part of an enjoyable traineeship is the workplace and colleagues with whom you interact with on a daily basis. Whilst everyone is likely to be rushing around (yourself included), they will always make time to help.

Whilst the average week can be a testing experience, you only truly appreciate the rewards in your development in hindsight (including being asked to write a blog about it). It is an exciting time to be with the Firm as it continues to expand and achieve new milestones.

If you are interested in your joining our Summer Internship with a view to becoming a trainee, you can download an application form here or email Graham Millar, Partner & Head of Employment Law & Training – gmillar@gilsongray.co.uk