Apprentice Chartered Legal Executive Review

I am a Paralegal in the Medical Negligence team. I manage my own cases and work on cases of other fee earners. I speak with clients, collate evidence, work on cases and consider the value of cases. I work on cases that involve court proceedings or they may also be pre-issue cases. The work is varied and complex.

I have both developed new skills and developed existing skills too. I have always been a team player and been very organised but these skills have increased since working here. I have also learned to adapt quickly to change to prioritise important work, and be resilient when faced with challenges.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme. I have never regretted opting for an apprenticeship and I am happy that I accepted the position here as my career is continuing to develop and I learn new things constantly. I work with a good team who support me both in work and personally.

The programme is well organised both by CILEx and Irwin Mitchell. I have contacts who I can reach out to for support and assistance. The experience has not been 100% well structured throughout as I was part of the first cohort of apprentices at this firm, although I have always been supported throughout and any errors rectified.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. I have monthly meetings with my line manager to discuss my progress, job role and have a general one-to-one discussion. I also receive support from the early careers team who are on hand to help with any specific queries. I am also supported well by the rest of the team and my colleagues.

I have a tutor for each law module as well as an assessor who visits every 10-12 weeks to complete progress reviews with me. I am aware that I can reach out for support whenever needed and there will be somebody who is able to help me and if needed, liaise with my line manager to consider the best options for me.

My qualification helps me perform in my role very well because my skills and understanding are constantly improving. I study lots of different areas of law, some that are not relevant to my practice area and others that run alongside the work I do in the office every day. The qualification also provides me with important skills such as legal research and client care which are essential to my role.

There are many extra curricular activities. I get involved with the work netball team and we play matches every week - I am the vice captain for the team. I also volunteer once a month for Boccia, an inclusive sport. There are also other things to get involved with such as the charity committee, yoga and choir.

Yes

I would recommend Irwin Mitchell for an apprenticeship because I am happy that I work here and am working towards the career that I want. I am well supported and work with a great team of like-minded and driven individuals. I think for anybody considering a career in law, this is a great option.

I would advise people to review the firm's key policies and values and ensure that the individual would 'fit in' well with them and understand the importance. I would say if you are friendly, hard working and happy to work as a team then you would be a good candidate. You must show your strengths and evidence these too.