Rachael Scarfe
2nd year trainee solicitor
Law, University of Birmingham |
Whilst in my second year of studying law at the University of Birmingham I took part in a summer vacation scheme at RPC.
RPC invest a lot of time and effort into their vacation scheme and this really pays off. Not only did I discover more about the firm’s core practice areas and the activities undertaken by trainees but it also gave me the opportunity to have fun and experience life in London.
When I joined RPC in September 2007 I was immediately made to feel welcome. The open plan offices remove the hierarchical environment and make everyone, at all levels, approachable. This combined with the fact that there are only 15 trainees in each intake means that everyone in the firm quickly gets to know who you are..
My first two seats were in general liability and professional risks, both of which are insurance litigation groups. RPC has an established and well respected insurance practice, so you know as a trainee that the lawyers you work with are experts in their field. During my first seat in general liability I ran my own files with minimal supervision whilst also assisting in a complex manslaughter trial resulting from severe health and safety breaches by a company director. I then moved on to professional risks where I was given a central role in the investigation of a potential case of mortgage fraud, the outcome of which had implications on coverage. I am now in the construction and engineering group where I draft contracts and professional appointments on a daily basis.
There are also opportunities to participate in activities outside of the office. As well as being part of RPC's team for The Times Leadership Challenge I have also been able to take part in RPC's reading scheme and play in the firm's netball team. |
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