A Little Bit About Me…

Hi, my name is Leah Pilling and and I am Trainee Solicitor at Timms. I am approaching three years here, having joined in 2021 as a paralegal in the family team. My time so far at Timms has absolutely flown by.

I graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with a First Class Law degree. After I graduated I began my legal career as a paralegal at a family law firm in Derby, until I made the move over to Timms.

I am currently undertaking a Masters in Law and the LPC at Nottingham Trent University on a part-time basis, whilst working at Timms full time.

My Training Contract Now and What’s Next…

I started my training contract in September 2023 where began my first seat in Wills and Probate.

I am now completing my penultimate seat in the conveyancing department, and I am due to qualify as a solicitor in March 2025.

How Did I Become A Trainee Solicitor At Timms?

The application process for the Trainee Solicitor programme comprised of three stages. Firstly, I submitted my CV and a cover letter detailing my reasons for wanting to become a solicitor and my suitability for the role. After submission, I was then invited for an interview and to attend a group exercise with the other candidates.

Although I was very nervous for my interview, I felt that the interviewers did their best to help me feel at ease and conduct the interview as more of a discussion. I was very grateful for this as it allowed me to confidently showcase my suitability for the role, to show why I would make a good solicitor and to discuss how I would be an asset to the firm.

Nerves ahead of an interview are completely normal, and it is often said that if you aren’t nervous then there is something wrong! Although thorough preparation is one way to beat the nerves, I also like to remind myself that those interviewing me have been in a similar situation to me before. The interview is an opportunity to help me showcase why I am the best candidate for the role.

The interview is just a chance to bring your application to life and to showcase your personality!

The Most Challenging Aspect Of My Training So Far…

The most challenging part of my training contract would definitely be the transition into my first seat.

Although I had worked at Timms for some time before becoming a Trainee Solicitor, moving into a completely different department and working with new people was definitely daunting to me. I was worried about making a good first impression with my new colleagues but at the same time I was wanting all my work to be perfect on my first attempt. I quickly realised that I did not need to hold myself to such high expectations. It is okay to not know everything straight away.

The whole point of a training contract is to learn, and to learn from your mistakes.

The Most Enjoyable Aspect Of My Training So Far…

Although I experienced the most challenging part of my training contract going into my first seat, the most enjoyable aspect was also in my first seat. I absolutely loved my time in the Wills and Probate team and the client relationships that I was fortunate enough to build. I felt a great sense of achievement that I was able to help clients both plan for their future, and also to help those going through difficult times. I was grateful that I was able to alleviate some of the pressures or concerns that many of our clients are facing.

A standout moment for me so far would be receiving a thank you card with some very kind words and feedback, and a gift from one of the very first clients that I worked with on my own.

What Have I Learnt So Far?

It really is crazy how much you learn in such a small amount of time working as a Trainee Solicitor. Being able to complete seats in different departments is invaluable in teaching you great working practices, and for developing your knowledge base. I have learnt how much different areas of law are intertwined, and the knowledge and skills I picked up from the Wills and Probate team have really helped me in getting to grips with conveyancing.

I feel very lucky that I am surrounded by such amazing colleagues that have helped me learn so much in such a small time. I am grateful for all their guidance and support so far.

Where To Next?

It’s not been confirmed where I will be completing my last seat but wherever it is, I’m looking forward to seeing what it has in store for me!