This month has been rather hectic as I have been seconded to work in house with a new client and have also started my Professional Skills Course.  Many of you may think that you have seen the back of education after completing the LPC but, alas, this is not the case!  However, the courses that trainees are obligated to take are obviously designed to ensure that you are fully aware of the standards and obligations that are placed upon solicitors at the outset of your career.  I found my first course on client care to be both interesting and highly useful for everyday practice.  Although elements of this course are taught on the LPC, it is not truly appreciated by students how important this is until you begin practising.

For instance, we were given details of several scenarios in which a conflict may appear and were asked to decipher whether you should or should not act for the potential client in each scenario.  Whilst it may not always be overtly obvious that a conflict has arisen, it is important that firms have a robust system in place to ensure that they do not inadvertently act in situations where a conflict may arise.

During the course of this month I have also spent the best part of a week working with the Managing Director on the south coast in the offices of a new commercial client.  We are looking to take on a number of matters for the client for our debt recovery department.  I therefore spent my time in meetings with different managers and staff members in an effort to understand the mechanisms of the business.  The aim is to set up a process with the client in which we both work together towards the same end game.  Being involved in this kind of meeting is invaluable in the development of my commercial awareness.  As a firm it is our belief that you are not able to act for your client to your best ability without truly understanding your client’s business and its ethos.  These early days are therefore of the utmost importance in laying the foundations and building the relationship.

Since returning from the meetings, I have been and still am assisting in the drafting of precedent letters whilst considering how our claims will be pleaded.  Whilst I have found this challenging and thought provoking, it has been a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Until next month,

Kimberley