What I wish I knew before starting my Solicitor Apprenticeship

Choosing a solicitor apprenticeship is an exciting yet challenging path. It’s a great opportunity to learn on the job, gain qualifications, and enter the legal world without student debt. Nicole, a 1st year solicitor apprentice in Shoosmiths’ Birmingham office, here she reflects on her experience and provides advice to aspiring solicitor apprentices.

Understanding the commitment

One of the first things to realise is the level of commitment required to succeed as a solicitor apprentice. A solicitor apprenticeship is not just a job, it’s also a significant investment of time and effort. Balancing work, study, and personal life can be challenging, which is why it's essential to develop strong time management skills early on to ensure success in such a fast-paced environment. I underestimated how demanding this dual responsibility would be which is why tools like digital calendars and task lists have been lifesavers in keeping me productive and on task.

Don’t be afraid to network

Networking is crucial in the legal profession. Building relationships with colleagues, mentors, and other professionals can provide invaluable support and open doors to new opportunities. I have found that most people are willing to help and show genuine interest in your growth. Take every opportunity to get involved in networking events and meetings to enhance your skills and understanding of the profession. Building relationships with colleagues across different departments has been incredibly rewarding for me personally as it has allowed me to build a strong support network and have a constant source of motivation and support as well as gain more hands-on experience to enhance my skills.

You’ll feel out of your depth – and that’s okay!

Starting an apprenticeship in a professional environment like in a law firm can be intimidating, especially right after finishing your A-Levels. It’s natural to question whether you belong or if you’re “qualified enough” to contribute. It's normal to feel out of your depth, but this is part of the growth process. Over time, I learned that asking questions and seeking guidance are signs of initiative, not weakness. Your colleagues expect you to be learning and growing and are on hand to support you. Constructive feedback is a valuable tool for growth, so embrace it and be proactive in your learning. Being open to feedback shows that you are committed to your development and willing to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and always be proactive in your approach of learning and working.

Embrace continuous learning – It’s part of the job!

The legal field is constantly evolving, and continuous learning is key in order to succeed! Every day brings something new to learn, from understanding legal jargon to mastering different software, there’s a lot to take in. To stay ahead of the curve, it is vital that you stay updated with the latest legal developments and be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities, whether that be with attending networking events, reading up on certain trends in the market or attending webinars, the more you learn, the more confident and competent you will feel. You won’t know everything in the beginning, and it’s important to remember that an apprenticeship is a marathon and not a sprint. I wish I had reminded myself that learning is a process and that it’s okay to take things step by step. 

Managing stress

An apprenticeship can be stressful, so it's important to develop strategies to manage this. Find what makes you happy, whether it's exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, and make it a regular part of your routine. There is a life outside of work and it is vital that you prioritise this to reduce the risk of burn out. Remember, taking care of your own wellbeing is just as important as your professional development, so don’t overlook it.

You’re not alone in this journey

One of my biggest misconceptions was thinking I had to figure out everything out on my own. In reality, the solicitor apprenticeship route is quite literally based on teamwork, learning from others and being supported throughout the 6 years. From supervisors and mentors, help is always available to those who reach out.

Starting a solicitor apprenticeship is an incredible opportunity, but it comes with challenges. By understanding the importance of time management, seeking support, embracing the learning process, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you'll be better equipped to thrive. Remember, it's a journey, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Always believe in yourself and lead with confidence!

If you have any questions you can email us at [email protected] or have a look at some frequently asked questions here.

To stay up to date with the latest information about the firm, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and sign up to our mailing list.