At FSP we aim to recruit three or four trainees every year, to start their training contract in September. We pride ourselves on investing in our trainees and consider them to be the future of the firm – a goal attested to by our high rate of trainee retention. For this reason, we expect our trainees to play a significant part in the professional life of this firm. The emphasis is very much on gaining the skills required for a rewarding career as a solicitor.
Over the two-year training period, trainees can expect to gain experience in three or four different teams within the firm with a view to spending their last six months in the department where they wish to qualify. Trainees are required by the Law Society to experience one contentious and one non-contentious seat. That requirement aside, the training contract can encompass any of our main teams of probate, residential property, commercial property, company commercial, family, and dispute resolution.
When a trainee joins this firm, he or she will enjoy the benefits of a comprehensive induction programme. This includes practical sessions on legal research, writing articles for publication on the web and client management.
Trainees are allocated a training principal in each seat who will supervise their everyday work although our training partner is ultimately responsible for trainee development and welfare. Trainees are regularly appraised throughout their training contract, giving an invaluable opportunity to receive feedback on performance as well as to discuss the individual trainee’s needs and whether their training could be improved in any way. We understand the importance of having an excellent training programme that enables trainees to become first-rate lawyers. This is good for the trainee and good for the firm and we hope ensures a bright future for both.
Throughout the training contract great emphasis is placed on continuous learning and the development of both legal and practical skills. Over the course of the two year contract trainees attend the Professional Skills Course, which is funded by the firm. We hold regular LNTV update sessions with discussions afterwards, in which trainees are encouraged actively to participate. Trainees are also encouraged to attend lectures and events hosted by external providers such as the local Young Solicitors Group.
FSP is an exceptionally friendly firm and there are many opportunities for trainees to develop links across the different teams. We place great importance on client care and trainees develop client contact both in the course of the working day and also at organised after-work functions. The firm recognises that trainees are important to its future and as such they are encouraged to take part in the many business development initiatives which the firm undertakes.
Our training partner, Dean Bickford, is a partner in the commercial property group. He joined FSP in 2006 after working at Eversheds and Boodle Hatfield. As training partner, Dean is committed to ensuring that all our trainees receive a broad level of experience which seeks to maximise their potential as lawyers as well as providing them with a stimulating work environment.
Dean is closely involved in the career development of our trainees and he will help the trainees achieve their potential by offering in-house training covering everything from "soft skills" and IT to specific legal issues. If you show willingness and aptitude, Dean will ensure that you are given a significant level of responsibility in the early stages of your career.