Life as a Trainee at Wallace

What does a typical day look like for you as a trainee at Wallace?

I’m currently in the Employment department, working on matters for both employers and employees. My day might involve drafting settlement agreements, preparing Employment Tribunal documents, speaking with potential new clients, updating existing clients and carrying out research for the team.

What opportunities have you had at Wallace that have helped you develop as a future solicitor?

I’ve had lots of direct client contact and opportunities to use my own judgement and take ownership of tasks, which has helped develop both my technical skills and confidence. It’s rewarding to be so actively involved in developing and maintaining strong client relationships. Wallace also encourages trainees to develop their commercial awareness and Business Development skills from an early stage. The Associates, Trainees and Paralegals have quarterly seminars to discuss progress we have made in this area and to explore new ideas together.

What is the culture like at Wallace, and how have you found working with colleagues across the firm?

Wallace has a supportive and collegial atmosphere, and I’ve always felt that the firm is genuinely invested in my development. Even when teams are busy, both junior and senior colleagues make time to give useful feedback, explain unfamiliar points and help me learn as I move between departments.

What advice would you give someone thinking about applying to Wallace’s trainee programme?

You’re not expected to know everything when you start, so I think the best way to add value is to be independent and show initiative. Taking ownership and thinking one step ahead, even on something as simple as preparing a draft email before being asked, can go a long way.

If you could describe your training contract at Wallace in one word, what would it be, and what makes that word feel right?

I would describe it as very well-rounded. You gain experience across Corporate, Employment, Property and Litigation, which gives you a key understanding of commercial law, your clients’ commercial objectives and what you can do to help achieve those objectives. You take on real responsibility and develop a broad range of legal and client skills, while also gaining an understanding of how the firm operates as a business and what it does to stay competitive in the market.