Rick Dhillon, Trainee Solicitor

"In my training contract I wanted to receive high quality training from a firm which supported its staff, were progressive and had highly respected practice areas. Irwin Mitchell was the natural choice as it fulfilled these requirements, as well as having an established presence in diverse practice areas, enabling me to gain experience across a spectrum of legal fields.

My first seat was in the International Travel Litigation Group (ITLG) in Birmingham. This was a fascinating introduction into litigation. The ITLG pioneered multi-party group actions on behalf of clients who had suffered illnesses or injuries abroad. I enjoyed the level of responsibility I had running my own files and client contact gained and value the opportunity I had to undertake a seat in a department which is recognised by independent sources as being a market leader in its field.

I then moved to the Insolvency department in Sheffield for my second seat. I have prepared defences to summary judgment applications, drafted claim forms, winding up petitions and conducted client interviews and court hearings by myself. My time in Insolvency has been extremely enjoyable, it is amazing how much you realise you
have learnt in the space of a few months.

My third seat will be in the Commercial Legal Expenses Insurance department in Sheffield where I will be dealing with consumer, commercial and property litigation
claims which I am looking forward to.

Working at the firm means you are guaranteed a vibrant social life. Since joining I have been out socialising with other trainees and colleagues, attended department night outs and client events. An upcoming event I am looking forward to is a night out at the Dogs with a major client. This was my suggestion and goes to show that as a trainee your opinions and views are respected within the firm.

As a trainee the support provided by the firm and other trainees is excellent. I am encouraged to develop my own style and use my initiative, but when guidance is required there is always somebody available to approach. My progress has also been
positively monitored by my supervisor in each seat which provides me with the
reassurance that supervisors are taking a genuine interest in my development. My first year at Irwin Mitchell has exceeded my expectations and I am very much looking forward to the second year of my training contract and continuing to develop the skills required to become a successful solicitor".