Background
I began my legal journey with Bridge McFarland LLP during my first year at university, back in 2021. I realised relatively early that I wanted to become a solicitor, however, I wanted exposure within a law firm to get, a deeper understanding of the variety of departments available. During that summer, I had the opportunity to spend time within the Medical Negligence and the Dispute Resolution departments. This gave me a valuable insight into the day-to-day workings of a law firm confirming that this was the right career path for me.
After returning to university and reflecting on my summer placement I realised that I wanted to continue being part of a supportive and encouraging law firm. Consequently, I spent the majority of my term breaks returning to Bridge McFarland to learn more skills and gain more of an understanding of what legal work involved. I have been exposed to Medical Negligence, Dispute Resolution, Personal Injury, Conveyancing, Family Law and Commercial Law throughout my time here.
Upon completing my final summer placement, I began to consider my postgraduate degree options, being mindful of the relatively recent introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and was fortunate to be offered a position as a Trainee Solicitor at Bridge McFarland alongside their commitment to support me with the SQE course.
In the summer of 2023, I returned on a full-time basis with the firm and subsequently began studying one day per week for the SQE. Managing revision for the SQE1 exams while also maintaining the responsibilities of a trainee solicitor has taught me a great deal about time management, resilience, and the importance of organisation. However, I’ve always felt fully supported by the firm, with colleagues who understand the pressure and have been willing to provide advice and support. Managing a four-day working week with one day dedicated to studying has been quite demanding at times but it has been helpful to enhance my organisational skills and enabled me to stay on track with both my academic and professional development. The firm has also been extremely understanding when workloads peak or when assessment dates approach, which has been invaluable.
My current role at Bridge McFarland LLP
Having spent time in the many departments within the firm, I have returned to my favoured, Medical Negligence, which has an amazing and supportive team. They continue to provide guidance and support helping to prepare me for the SQE qualification and life as a future solicitor
My typical day revolves around reviewing medical records to identify potential breaches of duty of care and causation, all of which help support a client’s claim. In addition, I draft Letters of Notification and Letters of Claim setting out the allegations. I now lead my own initial client meetings which has significantly increased my confidence and communicational skills. My current focus is learning how to effectively analyse expert reports and understand their advice for our client’s case. This is a crucial aspect of clinical negligence claims as it is vital to providing accurate advice to the client.
Whilst working in clinical negligence can be emotionally challenging at times due to the sensitive nature of the cases, I find it rewarding and meaningful helping clients through a particularly difficult time in their lives.
Why Bridge McFarland?
From summer placements to now working as a trainee solicitor, I have been encouraged to challenge myself and get involved in all areas of law, to perform tasks that at times, have been difficult and often emotional. This support has enabled me to further develop my skills and has improved my confidence. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Bridge McFarland LLP, and I am sure, with their continued support, I will continue to grow and successfully qualify as a solicitor.
Advice
My advice to anyone considering a career in law would be to embrace every opportunity that you are offered. Every experience is a chance to develop new skills and techniques ensuring you will become a more well-rounded and confident solicitor.