Trainee Profiles

Sarah Lawrence

Second Year Trainee Solicitor, Corporate department, Manchester

University - The Queen's College, Oxford University
Subject - Law

1.What is the most intellectually challenging piece of work you have done?

I was involved in a completion in the Corporate department. There was a short time frame in which everything had to be done so I quickly learned the value of being able to work under pressure!

2. What are you working on at the moment?

I'm working on various projects for the Corporate department including acquisitions and some initial public offerings on AIM. This has involved a lot of preparation and research in terms of drafting verfication notes, carrying out due dilligence and preparing ancillary documents. I have also carried out a lot of company secretarial work, which has involved a great deal of client contact.

3. Describe your most interesting client experience.

At Halliwells even as a Trainee you are given a lot of responsibility and client contact. I have had more contact with clients in meetings, over the phone and at lunches that I ever thought that I would as a trainee. From day one in all of the departments I have been in I have been in regular contact with our clients and this enables you to get to know the clients and their business needs on a much higher level.

4. What has been your most memorable experience (funny, embarrassing, scary etc)?

It would have to be the fact that I was asked to do a contested hearing alone in my very first week at Halliwells! Putting aside the fact that I was petrified it actually wasn't anywhere near as bad as I imagined it would be and immediately made me realise that I had a real contribution to make.

5. What have you enjoyed the most?

I most enjoy the friendly nature of the firm as a whole. I have worked in both the Manchester and Sheffield offices and I have yet to come across anyone who isn't approachable and willing to help. I really like the team approach we take in working together.