Nothing phases our trainee Rachael - Find out why in her latest blog...

“Please can you prepare an EMI Option Agreement?” 

That’s what I was asked to do on my first day as a trainee. I was shocked – this was real work.  Within my first week of being a trainee in the Corporate Department at Gilson Gray, I quickly realised that I was not there to photocopy and take notes for other solicitors. Rather, I would be responsible for my own client matters and would be taught how to operate a business.

The work I have done so far has been very varied. I expected to work on company sales and purchases – and I did! – but I have also been involved in commercial projects, such as terms and conditions, sub-contracts and technical advice on data protection, competition law and intellectual property. The highlight for me so far, though, has to be working on the commercial mediation of a dispute between shareholders of a company that was really complex, involving allegations of misconduct by a director. I was closely involved in the preparation for the mediation and assisted at the mediation itself – from 9am to 1am. That made me appreciate just how important it is for shareholders of a company to have an agreement that sets out how the company is be managed, as well as what will happen if they fall out.

Without a doubt, the most valuable tool throughout my traineeship has been the support of my colleagues. Even when we are under pressure to complete a project, we still manage to have a laugh in the office.

I was lucky enough to have been one of the first applicants to go through the firm’s Summer Placement Programme, so I have felt like part of the family from an early stage of my traineeship.

Reflecting on my experience at Gilson Gray so far, whilst I was nervous at the beginning of my traineeship at prospect of being given a lot of responsibility from an early stage, I’d have it no other way – why not get stuck into the real deal from day one?

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