Six months into my traineeship, reflecting on where I started, I am now filled with confidence in all that I have learned so far.

For the past six months I have been working in the Private Client department under Debbie’s guidance in the Girvan office. Working with Debbie I have met with clients regarding wills, powers of attorney, inheritance tax and partnership agreements. This has given me valuable insight into the intricacies of being a solicitor, no day is the same. 

During my initial months with The McKinstry Company I spent a lot of time getting used to the firm’s case management system. My colleagues were all very helpful and patient despite me asking questions about tasks which were second nature to everybody.

Private Client is a busy department and from day one I was involved in drafting documents and taking notes during meetings. Gradually I built on this knowledge to understand the procedure involved in executry administration. Private Client being my first seat has taught me the importance of file management, which is essential in any area of law, learning valuable organisation skills and attention to detail. It has also opened my eyes to the role of an advisor in people’s lives and the responsibilities that come with being a solicitor.

Understanding general legal practice is essential as different departments often interweave. Working in Private Client has introduced me to property transactions, as well as trusts and tax liability in the winding up of an estate. I have also been involved in guardianship applications and I am looking forward to gaining a greater understanding the court processes these involve.

I have been fortunate to work in the Ayr office on Wednesday each week which gave me the opportunity to get to know my colleagues in Ayr and assist Thiona and Melissa. As a newly qualified solicitor Melissa has been a great support in navigating my traineeship. I think a support system around you gives you a foundation for success and working alongside my fellow trainee Ross MacKinnon it has been exciting to share in our progress.

Outside of work we enjoyed an evening out in Glasgow with the whole The McKinstry Company team to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarves over the festive period. I have been able to socialise with my colleagues at events hosted by the firm which also connect us to other Ayrshire businesses.  I am looking forward to more of The McKinstry Company events as I continue to build relationships within the community.

As the nights get brighter, I eagerly anticipate the coming months and the new challenges they will bring. Transitioning to the civil department in the Ayr office this month brings great anticipation. Although leaving the Girvan office is bittersweet, I look forward to delving into court work and gaining confidence in this new arena.

I am ready for the next phase of my traineeship, knowing that the next six months will undoubtedly fly by!