I am currently working as a Trainee Solicitor in LK Shields Solicitors. There are several stages to becoming a Trainee Solicitor. The first and hardest part is passing the Final Examinations First Part. Once all eight subjects have been passed a traineeship must then be secured with a law firm. With so many solicitors firms in Dublin, I found it difficult to know which firms to apply for. However, having done some research on the matter, LK Shields Solicitors repeatedly came to the fore as possessing one of the best traineeships in the country and was renowned for its excellent professional reputation. I was also impressed by the fact that LK Shields retains many trainees after they qualify, even during the height of the recession.

In the first part of my traineeship I attended the Professional Practice Course I in the Law Society of Ireland in Blackhall Place for six months. Upon returning to LK Shields, I was initially placed in the Commercial Property Department. I found the experience to be challenging but rewarding. I was entrusted with worthwhile tasks which challenged my ability and was encouraged and mentored by Solicitors and Partners alike.

After six months in Commercial Property, I then moved to the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department where I am now currently sitting. Being in the office with a Partner has not only increased my legal knowledge but has also better prepared me in dealing with clients whether by telephone or through correspondence. I have been exposed to many different types of litigation - from Family Law to Employment Law to Debt Enforcement Procedures. As Partners and Solicitors endeavour to involve trainees in new matters from the beginning, I have witnessed firsthand how litigation and disputes progress. I am also required to make regular trips to the Four Courts which enhances my training even further.

I commenced the Professional Practice Course II in April, which lasted approximately ten weeks. Having returned to the office in July, I am now working with another Litigation Partner who has involved me in the handling of a number of complex and interesting files. I have gained invaluable experience on how to progress a matter in order to achieve the best result for the client. While I will enjoy one further placement before I complete my traineeship, I hope to return to Litigation when I qualify as a Solicitor in early 2012.

I would encourage anybody who is thinking of becoming a solicitor to apply for a traineeship in LK Shields as it is the perfect learning environment and guides trainees to be the best solicitors they possible can. While there is a lot of hard work involved, there is a good atmosphere and fun to be had with fellow Trainees and colleagues.