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Just over a year ago, I made a pivotal decision that would change the next phase of my life. I accepted the opportunity to become a legal apprentice with Michelmores.
Why law?
I had worked for eight years as a rural chartered surveyor for a large estate. Whilst I had always enjoyed my work, the matters that consistently drew my interest were those that focused on legal arguments for example, boundary disputes and drafting tenancies. I had considered retraining, but always persuaded myself out of it, usually due to the cost. It was always just a pipe dream.
As a surveyor, I would often interact with solicitors, sending instructions and seeking professional advice. I attended a CPD event hosted by the Agricultural Team at Michelmores, where I met lawyers who had previously practised as rural surveyors and had made the leap. This inspired me and I remember telling my wife that evening “I am going to do it! I want to be a solicitor!” However, the image I had of being a lawyer was heavily influenced by Netflix, so I decided I needed to do some research before diving in with both feet.
I spoke to a solicitor I had met from Michelmores and asked about the prospect of doing some work experience. They kindly invited me to shadow the Agricultural Team for a week. They treated me like a member of the team. They assigned me work on live matters, invited me to client meetings and even took me out for lunch! I knew from the end of the very first day that this was where I needed to be. At that point my desire to retrain as a solicitor evolved from being a pipe dream to an absolute necessity.
Apprenticeship schemes
Although I was certain this was the right move for me, I still had to overcome the financial challenges of retraining. I spoke to the early careers team at Michelmores, and they explained to me that a new apprenticeship scheme had just emerged in the legal sector, which was open to those with and without law degrees. Dubious, I thought there had to be a catch, but learning that I would be paid throughout the entire apprenticeship and would be given the time I needed to study, I realised this was a golden ticket opportunity. I just had to ensure that I was Charlie Bucket!
I applied for the Michelmores apprenticeship scheme. Whilst it is ill-advised, I only applied to Michelmores, as I was sure that they were the firm I wanted to work at. The nature of the work was interesting and diverse. Their culture was like no office I had ever worked at. Everyone worked extremely hard, but they all pulled together, assisting each other, and always willing to support a colleague to go the extra mile for their clients. The application process was challenging and involved several interviews. There was also an assessment day with strength tests and a debate over an article with a partner – all more enjoyable than it sounds!
A year on
I am now entering my third placement in the firm. Do I have any regrets about my decision? Just one I suppose – I wish I had done it sooner. The apprenticeship has not been easy, but I have been surprised how valuable my background as a rural chartered surveyor is. There is also no escaping the fact that law underpins the foundation of our lives. When I began to study, I realised I knew more than I thought I did and lots of the subjects were easier to understand than I thought. If you are looking to branch out into law, don’t be disillusioned by thoughts that you aren’t capable, as you might surprise yourself.
The importance of work experience
For those of you interested in a career in law, my advice is to get some work experience. Reach out to firms to see if they will offer work experience and apply for mini-pupillage opportunities. I have generally found that solicitors are very friendly. Not only will this give you some vital work experience to bulk up your CV, but it will allow you to determine if this is the career for you.
I chose Michelmores because of the culture and because they have one of the most recognised Agricultural Teams, in the country. They advise on a vast range of matters in the agricultural and forestry sphere – from partnership disputes to emerging natural capital markets. So, whilst I may have hung up my wellies for a pair of brogues, I am still in touch with my roots, just now in a different capacity.
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