Case study

George Williamson — Solicitor apprentice

Employer
Dentons

George is a solicitor apprentice studying towards a LLB degree at BPP University. He has five years of experience in variety of legal practice areas, including a secondment at Airbus based in Toulouse

Why did you decide on a career in law?

Law has relevance in almost every aspect of life making it engaging and practical.

What attracted you to Dentons?

Dentons’ global reach and variety of legal practice areas means there are an abundance of opportunities to experience and work with people from a range of backgrounds and specialisms.

What was the application process like?

The application process consists of an application form, assessment, video interview and finally an insight day and assessment centre. The process is thorough and challenging but helps develop transferrable skills and makes a successful outcome even more rewarding.

What’s a typical day like as a solicitor apprentice?

A typical day involves assisting team members to manage and progress transactions and matters. Tasks include drafting emails and documents, attending calls with clients, project management and liaising with colleagues.

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy having real practical experience and working as part of a team. The experiences and challenges that learning on the job brings are unique and more engaging, which is invaluable for professional development.

What are the challenges?

Sometimes tasks can seem daunting but having the opportunity to work in multiple practice areas broadens knowledge and experience, which I can use to approach problems pragmatically.

There are a lot of stereotypes about working in law, can you debunk a myth?

People often think those that work in law all have similar and specific types of personalities, usually with negative connotations. The truth is that the legal industry is incredibly diverse, social and, since the introduction of hybrid-working, can include a good work-life balance.

What are your career ambitions?

Throughout my apprenticeship I have worked with many talented and experienced individuals in various specialisms. Working closely with these individuals means I have picked up certain traits and characteristics that I’ve incorporated into my own style of work making me a more well-rounded and skilled professional. I will continue building on my experience and learning from other people to improve my own reputation and personal brand within the industry.

Why should future apprentices consider applying to the firm?

Dentons is extremely invested in the solicitor apprenticeship scheme and there is a real sense that apprentices are valued by the firm. This is evident by the range and complexity of tasks apprentices are asked to complete and the resources that are being put into the scheme, for example, bespoke training on professional development and mindset. With a large cohort of apprentices, there is also a support and social network available.

Find out more