Lessons from Litigation: Qualifying as a Solicitor

After two rewarding years, I’m proud to have qualified as a solicitor in the litigation team. The journey through my traineeship was filled with fun and of course some challenges along the way – all of which has shaped me into the solicitor I am becoming.

Litigation is often described as fast-paced, pressurised, and adversarial — and all of that can be true. But it’s also strategic and endlessly varied. Here are a few things I’ve taken away from my time training in this area and some advice to future trainees or those currently completing their traineeship:

1. Preparation is everything.

Whether it’s a witness statement or a court hearing, being thoroughly prepared gives you the confidence to think clearly and respond under pressure. Surprises still happen — but preparation puts you in the best position to handle them.

2. Communication is a skill, not just a task.

From writing precise correspondence to explaining complex issues to clients or instructing counsel, I learned that how you say something is often as important as what you’re saying.

3. Details matter, but don’t lose the bigger picture.

In litigation, it’s easy to get buried in bundles and court rules. One of the key lessons I learned was to balance the detail with strategic thinking — always asking: What’s the client’s end goal? What matters most to them?

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Whether it’s a point of procedure or why a certain tactic is being taken, asking ‘why’ helps you understand the strategy behind the work. No one expects you to know everything – even the Partners will admit they don’t know it all!

5. Get comfortable being uncomfortable.

There will be some difficult conversations with clients and situations where you feel out of your depth – that’s normal and often where the biggest learning happens.

Qualifying is the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. I’m excited to keep building on the skills litigation has taught me — and to keep learning, growing, and contributing in this ever-evolving area of law.

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The information and opinions contained in this blog are for information only.  They are not intended to constitute advice and should not be relied upon or considered as a replacement for advice.  Before acting on any information contained in this blog, please seek solicitor’s advice from Gilson Gray.