Paralegal Apprentice Review

As a paralegal I assist other legal professionals within my team. Every day is different in my role and I am being exposed to many different aspects of this type of work. My responsibilities include, but are not limited to, meeting court deadlines, drafted court documents and carrying out financial checks. In addition, I often carry out administration work such as preparing bundles for court.

Having joined DWF at the age of 18, I had rarely used the telephone in a professional manner before. I am now calling clients and the court several times a week. This has allowed me to develop my confidence when carrying out phone calls, as it was something I wasn't used to. At DWF, there are several ways of developing/learning skills. I have took part in several apprenticeship meetings whereby I talk to younger students and tell them about the apprenticeship. This is something I would never have done prior to joining the apprenticeship or DWF.

I really enjoy my programme. There are so many people around who are willing to support me and I think this is what makes DWF stand out from other firms. I am learning/developing different skills each week and developing as a person. I also consider my colleagues as friends, which I think is highly important.

I think my programme is extremely well organised. I have time to work and study at the same time. I am not only learning about the law, but learning more about myself and what I am capable of. I always have the support there if needed or if I am struggling. However, am still being pushed to be the best lawyer I can be.

I receive a of support from my employer. My supervisor is always a phone call away and there to provide help if I need it. My team are also extremely helpful if I need support. My apprenticeship manager is always on hand if needed, and provides us necessary updates with our programme. Finally, all of the apprentices, from paralegal to solicitor, are very helpful and we all help each other out if needed.

My training providing gives regular updates via email, meaning I always know what I am suppose to be doing at each given time. They provide Q&A sessions also, which I find really useful as I feel like I wouldn't be as up to date as I am without these.

As previously stated, each day is different in my role which I feel really helps me develop/learn new skills. What I learn within the apprenticeship really helps with my day-to-day role and vice-versa. Learning on the job gives you a great perspective of how things work. I often put theory work into practice!

Yes, there are many opportunities given by DWF. These include sports teams, both after work and at lunch, and social events. We are given the opportunity to mix/create relationships with people from other teams, who we may not necessarily see in our work day. There are also many opportunities to help the local and wider community.

Yes

DWF has such a friendly environment. I feel like I have made genuine friends out of my colleagues and enjoy going to work because of this. I feel like I am a valued member of my team and the wider DWF community, despite being an apprentice. I also feel like I am recognised for the work I complete.

Be yourself! You may not feel like you're not the best in the room. However, this doesn't matter. As long as you show your own personality you will go far. When completing group interviews, ensure to participate whilst listening to your team members at the same time. DWF are there to help you grow and improve and are looking to see your personality shine through.