By trainee solicitor Emma Forbes-Stocken
When I started my training contract, I didn't know anything about what a seat in construction would entail. Now, as I am coming to the end of my four months in construction, I would recommend it as a seat to anyone. Here's why...
1. A wide variety of work
Sitting in the construction team, you get involved in both contentious and non-contentious work. This makes it a great seat to do if you are not sure which type of work you prefer, or if you do not think that you fit within one "box" or the other, and actually enjoy both types of work.
You have the opportunity to get involved in adjudication, arbitration and litigation on the contentious side. On the non-contentious side, there is the opportunity to get involved in energy projects and development and real estate finance matters where we act for both banks and developers. You are also likely to assist with drafting, negotiating and advising on a number of different construction documents, including construction contracts, professional appointments, security documents and collateral warranties.
2. Hands on experience
Trainees in the construction department are given a lot of responsibility from day one which makes it a great seat to do in order to build up both your legal skills and your confidence. During the past four months, I have carried out work for major clients, been to client meetings and been involved in a number of large projects.
3. Links with other departments
Due to the wide variety of work that the construction department does, and the variety of sectors within which it operates, you will most likely get the opportunity to work alongside our teams in real estate, planning, projects, banking, corporate and disputes. This makes it a great seat if you want to build up connections with other teams, and get a taste for what work you may get to do in other departments.
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