Even before my placement at SJP Law started, I was made to feel welcome at both the interview and the follow up with the HR team.

After the initial induction day, I spent three days in each of the Compensation, Commercial Property and Company Commercial departments. This gave me time to get a meaningful feel for the work undertaken in each department. I worked closely with the directors and staff, was given relevant activities to complete and research tasks for active cases. I was given regular feedback throughout my placement, and felt that they engaged with me and valued my contribution. I really enjoyed learning more about SJP Law.

One of the highlights of my placement was the attending a client clinic, where I experienced a range of client issues and took notes in each meeting. I also researched a wind turbine investment proposal, which tested my business and commercial skills. This involved learning about Feed in Tariffs and the wind farm industry, which is an area that SJP Law pride themselves in. Another highlight was drafting a director’s service agreement to protect the interest of the employer. We were even treated to ice creams one particularly hot Friday afternoon!

SJP Law invest in their staff and systems. One outcome of this is a productive and efficient operation and their competency framework helps employees progress and develop their careers. This focus has resulted in a positive culture, a high level of service to clients, as well as a dedicated and enthusiastic team.

During my placement I applied my theoretical knowledge of commercial property law to real life scenarios, including pre-contract enquiries. I furthered my knowledge of case law surrounding contributory negligence with a complex task in the Compensation department. I have also learned from observing how the directors dealt with challenging and sensitive situations.

Recording my working hours allowed me to develop my time management skills, which has given me a flavour of how this would work in practice. This experience has also emphasised how important it is to maintain a balance between developing my technical skills and working on my soft skills such as being part of a team.

This last two weeks has been an invaluable experience before I start my LPC this September.