Kate Phipps

First year trainee, Kate details why she chose Boodle Hatfield for her training contract and relays her top tips for anyone aspiring to apply.

What attracted you to Boodle Hatfield?

Boodle Hatfield stood out to me first and foremost for its sector expertise. I wanted to work at a firm that worked with individuals and families, with a client-centred approach focused on developing its long-standing relationships. The firm’s fantastic reputation and impressive legacy is testament to this. I was excited by the opportunity to carry out interesting and high-quality work for a varied client base, within a collaborative and supportive environment.

What advice would you give to anyone aspiring to apply for a training contract?

I consider the best piece of advice regarding training contracts is to really consider which firms you want to apply to and choosing a firm that suits you. The process of applying for training contracts can feel competitive but try to avoid sending out as many applications as possible. Instead, get to know the firm as much as you can beforehand and consider whether you could see yourself progressing there long term. Work experience opportunities can be a great way to gain insight, but overall these should inform your journey into law; in why you have applied and what you could bring to the firm.

How would you describe the culture at the firm?

Boodle Hatfield has a well-established friendly reputation. At face value, it has impressive retention rates and a large number of partners who have progressed within the firm since joining as trainees. Day to day, the firm stays true to its open door policy and everyone is very welcoming and supportive. Training is prioritised at all levels and there are always opportunities to get involved in firm-wide projects and events.

Since starting your training contact at Boodle Hatfield, what have you found most surprising?

One of the things I have found most surprising is the variety of the work to get involved in. One of the advantages of training at Boodle Hatfield is that there are fewer, less specialised seats which means you have the chance to be involved in a variety of work across the department. This gives you a broad insight and helps to further develop your own interests when considering your career progression.

Based on your experience to date, what has Boodle Hatfield given you that you may not have got from elsewhere?

The opportunity to get involved in high-quality work you might expect of a much larger firm, while maintaining the culture of a smaller one. A small trainee intake offers high quality training and potentially greater levels of responsibility and client contact. Finally, the firm encourages a healthy work-life balance which is something that trainees may not always experience elsewhere!