Bethany is an Associate and former Trainee Paralegal in the firm’s Residential Property team. She started her two year training contract in September 2022 and qualified into the firm’s Real Estate team in September 2024.
What attracted you to Boodle Hatfield?
From the outset, I knew that I wanted to work for a firm that focusses on individuals and families as I am particularly interested in both property and private client work. Boodle Hatfield therefore immediately stood out due to the calibre of work, the firm’s long-standing relationship with its clients and the high-end complex transactions the firm is involved in. The size of the firm also appealed to me as I was keen to work somewhere that had a relatively small intake of trainees as this allows for a high level of involvement from an early stage.
How did you find the vacation scheme?
I was fortunate enough to take part in the ‘virtual’ vacation scheme in the summer of 2020, whereby over the course of the scheme we were given an insight into each the firm’s departments. Although the scheme took place over Zoom due to Covid, it was evident that a lot of time and effort had been put into the vacation scheme. The scheme was great as it provided an opportunity to engage with the various departments, ask questions of the current trainees and (importantly) showcase your enthusiasm for joining the firm.
What have you taken away from your experience to date?
As I had already completed the LPC when applying for the training contract I discussed with both HR and the interviewing partners that I would be keen to gain paralegal experience if at all possible prior to the commencement of the training contract. I was offered a paralegal position in the residential property team in December of 2021 which has been an excellent learning opportunity. The work is fast paced and you have a direct involvement with clients from very early on. Everybody I have encountered within the firm has been extremely welcoming and friendly. The open-door policy creates an approachable and inclusive work place environment. I am very much looking forward to starting my training contract in September.
What advice would you give to anyone aspiring to apply for a training contract?
Be prepared to discuss your application form at all stages of the application process. Attention to detail is key, so do ensure that you spend time reviewing your application and ensuring that you are showing off your skill set. Lastly, if unsuccessful don’t be deterred from reapplying the following year, take the time in between to gain experience and think about how you can show how you have developed during that year through your application.
