Apprentice Paralegal Review

by Irwin Mitchell

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.4/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am an apprentice paralegal. On a day to day basis I am drafting Wills, completing tax returns, administering estates and applying for probate applications. I have my own matters and also help fee earners on matters. I make my way around the private client teams to gain valuable experience and knowledge on each section. I also speak to client's daily and have telephone conversations with external clients.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have no legal knowledge or skills before beginning my apprenticeship. I have learnt how to draft Wills, complete tax returns, administe estates and apply for probate applications. I have also learnt how to conduct legal research and write reports based on my findings.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my apprenticeship programme. Although it can be challenging at times as it is a fast paced environment with the volume of work and calls / new enquiries you have to respond to, I really enjoy my role. Each day is different and I learn something new most days which makes the days really interesting.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I wish I knew more about progressing beyond my level 3 apprenticeship. I currently do not know what I will be doing in September. I wish to complete further studies to gain a level 6 qualification. I believe this is something the programme should look to improve on. My college studies are well organised and I have a study log to follow each week so I know what CILEx expect from me.

5/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive lots of support from my managers and supervisors. I do wish that the careers team provided more details regarding progression opportunities in the future. My managers are eager for me to progress and are keen to train me on new aspects of the team, such as completing more complex work regularly.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

We receive support from our training provider. We have a clear study plan to follow each week which is really helpful when leading up to exams, knowing how and what we should be studying.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

My qualification really helps me to perform better in my role as the theory I learn from my course manuals and lectures, really match up my day to day role - especially when working on the Wills team and Probate team.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are lots of social activities. I attend these regularly.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Irwin Mitchell to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

They are an amazing firm to work for. They give me lots of opportunities and I really feel part of a team.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Irwin Mitchell?

Research your areas of law before applying to really understand what is expected from each team.