Debbie Carpenter, a Trainee Solicitor in her final seat with the Family department discusses what it’s like to have a Training Contract with Morrisons Solicitors.

I was an external applicant for a training contract with Morrisons Solicitors in 2016. After succeeding in the recruitment process, Morrisons also offered me an administrative role whilst I was waiting for my training contract to start, as I was due to complete the Legal Practice Course that summer. This was an invaluable opportunity for me to get to know the firm and its systems which meant I felt fully equipped to start my training contract in March 2017.

I have been extremely fortunate during my training contract and have been able to do a seat in each of the four areas that I had expressed an interest in. In all of my seats, my supervisor has been either a Partner or a Senior Associate Solicitor whom I have sat next to and worked extremely closely with. I have been fully involved in the majority of my supervisor’s cases and have seen many matters from start to finish, which has been a fantastic learning experience. My training highlights include obtaining Grants of Probate for assets in other jurisdictions, attending a trial at the Royal Courts of Justice and assisting in obtaining protective injunctions for victims of domestic violence.

Aside from my legal training, I have also had access to great networking and marketing opportunities. I have represented the firm at networking lunches and sponsored events and have prepared articles to appear on the firm’s website and social media.

Morrisons is a supportive and approachable firm which provides Trainee Solicitors with the opportunity to train in a wide range of exciting and interesting practice areas. Many Trainee Solicitors feel that they should look to the City for their training, but my experience has been hands-on, supported and exciting – without the daily commute to London! I have not looked back since joining Morrisons in 2016 and am delighted that I will be staying with Morrisons as a Solicitor upon qualification in March 2019.

Applications are open for Training Contracts starting in 2020, to apply please download our application form and email it to [email protected] along with your CV and a covering letter before 31st January 2019. If you would like more information, please click here.