Work Experience Blog – Libby Clarkson

I have just completed a two week work experience placement at Rollits, and I can honestly say the experience could not have been any more interesting and valuable. I was very nervous when I first arrived and had no idea what to expect, but I was put at ease straight away as everybody was so welcoming and friendly.

During my first week at Rollits I spent time in the Dispute Resolution and the Company/Commercial departments. Whilst in these departments I had the opportunity to do a wide variety of work, including filling out a Part 7 Claim Form, writing a case summary for a partner, and doing research on topics such as aircraft mortgages. I was also asked to read a case Rollits had dealt with concerning Landlord and Tenant Law, and discuss it with a solicitor, which was interesting as I got a feel for the type of client that Rollits represent. I thoroughly enjoyed all the tasks I was given, and I felt like I was given responsibility, especially when a partner asked me to do work for them!

I was very surprised that the atmosphere at Rollits is very relaxed and calm. Everyone in the firm is extremely friendly, from the receptionist to the partners, and throughout the two weeks people eagerly wandered up to my desk to introduce themselves and tell me about their role within the firm.

In my second week I spent time in the Property and Private Capital departments. Whilst in these departments I filled out a Stamp Duty Land Tax application, and sent out initial letters to clients. I also did some research on Charitable Incorporated Organizations. The work I did was the same work that trainees did, so I got to experience the life of a trainee at Rollits.

Everybody was very helpful throughout the two weeks and I knew if I had a problem I would be able to ask for help. Rollits has an open door policy and I learnt first hand that this was true. The trainees, solicitors and partners were all very Keene to help me if I had a problem, and happily answered any questions that I had whether it was about the work I was doing or about the firm.

During the work experience Rollits arranged for us to have talks on accounts, marketing, and administration. This was very useful as you learn that Rollits is not just a law firm, but it’s also a business. I also had the opportunity to visit the York office for the day, and during that time we did a marketing exercise on how to recruit trainees. I felt like my ideas were listened to and valued.

One thing I learnt at Rollits was how enjoyable and beneficial it would be to work for the firm. The staff work as part of a team, have reasonable working hours and many partners were trainees and even did work experience here, so you have great job prospects. The trainees are also encouraged to get involved with the firm, from organizing treasure hunts for clients to doing ‘real’ work.

I have really enjoyed the last two weeks and Rollits is a firm I would be proud to do a training contract with. Their... is correct they really are more than a law firm.