Leah Finnegan
I am a solicitor in the Corporate Department, having joined the firm as a trainee. During my training contract I gained valuable experience during my seats in the shipping, employment and property departments. But I found my third seat in the corporate/commercial department the most interesting and moved back to the department shortly before qualifying in September 2008.
The transition from trainee to solicitor has not been as daunting as I anticipated. I have always found people at the firm to be really approachable and I have continued to receive support and guidance from other members of the team whilst gradually taking on more responsibility.
Since qualifying I have been involved in a number of corporate transactions as well as being responsible for the preparation and negotiation of various types of commercial contracts and advising on company and corporate governance issues.
Whilst the corporate team undoubtedly work hard - it is not all late nights! The corporate team (and the firm as a whole) are a friendly and sociable bunch. I often go out with colleagues after work and the firm regularly organises events ranging from punting to pop quizzes.