I’m a first year trainee in the Clinical Negligence department and have been working at Drummond Miller for around eight months.
I can’t quite believe that I’m already well over halfway through my first seat – the time really has flown by. In the Clinical Negligence team, we’re always busy, so there’s always lots to do and lots to learn. Every day is different and the range of tasks trainees undertake is hugely varied.
My typical tasks include drafting statements, setting up consultations, lodging documents at the Sheriff Court and organising and serving writs. There are also a number of trainee-specific responsibilities, such as paying the court fees.
Training at Drummond Miller is great, because there are many opportunities to take on responsibility in a supportive and learning-focussed environment. The solicitors are happy to let you take statements from clients or draft letters, but are always open to questions and willing to talk you through new tasks. Additionally, because we work in small, tight-knit teams, it’s easy to feel like you’re making an effective contribution.
Unlike a lot of other firms, at Drummond Miller, traineeships are made up of two separate year-long seats, rather than four six-month ones. This creates a much more in-depth learning experience. Eight months in, I certainly feel a lot more confident about the work I’m doing and feel that the extra time has helped me to form a stronger bond with my team.
Drummond Miller also puts a lot of emphasis on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is one of my favourite aspects of the firm. Staff are encouraged to look after their well-being, both mental and physical. It’s not unusual for the Clinical Negligence team to pop out for a lunch-time run or gym class, and we’ve even signed up to a sponsored chocolate-detox, to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.
Overall, I would say that my experience as a Drummond Miller trainee has been fantastic so far. I’ve learned a lot and am very excited to see what my next seat holds.