Trainee Life at HFW: Cassandra's POV

Afterwards, I moved to London to complete the LLM Law and Legal Practice (the PGDL) at BPP University and then the LLM SQE 1 & 2 at the University of Law.

Living, studying and working across multiple countries has allowed me to explore and understand different cultures and taught me how to be resilient and adaptable – qualities which are invaluable when working for international clients and when navigating complex legal issues.

Alongside much of my studies I worked in data protection consulting where I supported clients, mainly based in Europe and the Middle East, with preparing processes and policies to enable compliance with data protection regulations. This experience solidified my interest in the connection between business and legal strategy which led me to specifically consider commercial firms.

Before embarking on my move to Norway, I knew that my ultimate goal was to become a solicitor in London. I was attracted by the international opportunities, fast paced commercial environment and intellectually stimulating challenges. I decided to pursue my career in London because of its presence as a global centre for commerce and law.

To begin developing my experience and understanding of international businesses, I decided to first obtain my business degree in Norway before commencing my legal studies in London. I believed that studying a non-law degree first, would help build my commercial understanding which is critical to advising and supporting clients.

As I began researching law firms, I came across HFW and was intrigued by the firm's international presence and unique sector focus which allows you to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular sector throughout your career. Following the completion of the PGDL, I successfully made a direct training contract application to HFW and subsequently commenced my training contract in March 2025.

My experience at the firm has been very positive so far. The firm operates an open-door policy and at no point have I ever hesitated to ask for support or guidance.

As a trainee I've worked on matters with teams ranging from a partner and senior associate to teams of seven or more individuals. Although the type of work may vary a lot depending on the matter and team composition, I've always been involved and felt that I was a member of the team. As well, I've always felt that the team and especially the partners genuinely welcome my input.

I've found the teams I've worked in to be quite accommodating. For example, if there is a particular type of work that I was interested in gaining experience in, the team was happy to support me in obtaining such work. As well, I have been afforded the opportunity to join multiple industry events so I could gain insight and begin to make connections. The teams genuinely take an interest in your development throughout your training contract.

The individuals I've worked with have all been very knowledgeable and possess great sector expertise. As a trainee, it becomes clear quite quickly that the teams you work within not only possess good knowledge of the law but also have a deep understanding of the sector they work within. This creates a very motivating and engaging environment.

After moving to my second seat, I've come to realise just how different the work can be across teams. Of course, each team may have a different way of working, but most notably, as a result of HFW's sector focus, the type of work done by each team can vary a lot.

The training contract offers you a really valuable opportunity to experience four different teams. I highly suggest trying out as many different areas as possible so you can discover which area interests you the most for qualification. As well, it is important to try as many things as possible and to keep an open mind as you never know which area may interest you.

In my construction seat I was involved with an adjudication. This is a unique, short-term dispute resolution process that only applies to construction disputes and provides for disputes to be resolved within 4-6 weeks. On this matter, I worked alongside my supervisor and was involved from the beginning to the end of the adjudication process.

Since it was just the two of us on this matter, I was given a lot of responsibility, allowing me to strengthen my skills and experience. Over the course of the dispute, I met with our clients, supported with preparing our submissions and reviewed all the evidence provided by our client. One of the largest areas I supported on was preparing an appendix summarising and appending all the evidence we submitted alongside our submissions. I also had the opportunity to draft a section of our submissions and later received valuable feedback on my work.

The ultimate highlight of the dispute was receiving the adjudicator's decision which found in favour of our client in full.

There are two main tips I would suggest. First, ensure you've done your research and apply to firms that you have a genuine interest in. Being able to properly explain your motivation for applying and demonstrating a genuine interest will not go unnoticed. Attending open days and law fairs will provide you with a great opportunity to obtain more in-depth insight into the firm and this level of understanding will come through in your application.

Second, try to get involved in as many activities and obtain as much experience as possible. Even if something is not directly related to law, it will provide you with an array of soft skills that are applicable to a career in law. When you refer to any such experience consider how it may be relevant to law and consider explaining this in your application.

Be yourself. Do not feel like there is any standard background or route into law that you should follow. Harness your differences and use these as your unique selling point. A career in law offers great variety and there is truly no one size fits all.