Insights from a trainee solicitor

Our current trainee solicitor has been part of our employment law team at ebl Düsseldorf since May this year. She is actually completing her legal training in Trier. However, she made a conscious decision to come to us in Düsseldorf for her legal placement. We spoke to her about her experiences so far:

You’re originally from Trier. How did you come to do your legal placement with us?

For my legal placement, I deliberately wanted to go to a larger city and work at a law firm whose specialism matched my focus on employment law. At the same time, it was important to me to find a law firm where I could gain practical experience. I wanted to gain an insight into the day-to-day work of a solicitor without just ‘tagging along’, so that I wouldn’t be completely lost when I started my first job after completing my legal traineeship.

What does your day-to-day work involve during your legal placement?

My day-to-day work is very varied. I deal with a range of tasks: assisting with research, preparing legal submissions, and corresponding with clients. I’m also often asked to think for myself about what the next tactically sound move would be. This allows me to put the knowledge gained during my legal traineeship directly into practice. I’m also able to attend court hearings and client meetings.

Is working here compatible with the often stressful period of legal training?

Yes, we take into account that the legal training period – and exam preparation in particular – is an intense and stressful time. The working environment is pleasant and straightforward, without compromising on professional standards. I never felt I couldn’t speak up if something was too much. On the contrary, we always worked together to find a solution that suited both sides.

How would you describe the working atmosphere at ebl?

The atmosphere is open, respectful and friendly. There are no traditional hierarchies or rigid formalities, as you might find in other law firms. Working together feels personal and on an equal footing. Questions are always welcome, without having to justify them.

What do you think makes ebl’s way of working stand out?

The way we work at ebl is modern, digital and, at the same time, very straightforward. The firm operates paperlessly and uses cloud-based practice management software. I have my own laptop, which means I can work from home in my hometown of Trier whenever necessary. We’re also encouraged to make good use of the firm’s AI solutions in our day-to-day work. At the same time, great importance is placed on team spirit, for example through joint activities such as the summer party or a visit to the Rheinkirmes.

In your view, who would find a legal placement at ebl particularly interesting?

For trainee solicitors who are interested in employment or company law and are looking for a placement with a practical focus. I find the combination of a high level of specialist expertise and short lines of communication particularly appealing for this legal placement.

Have your expectations from before you started this placement been met?

Yes, definitely. I feel very much at home here. I particularly appreciate the fact that I’m actively involved. I also receive personalised feedback on my tasks. This allows me to learn from my mistakes and keep developing. I haven’t experienced this level of close support in all my previous placements. Here, I’m getting exactly the mix I’d hoped for in my legal placement: challenging work, genuine integration into the team and a modern way of working.

Here at ebl Düsseldorf, we’re delighted to support trainee solicitors on their journey towards their second exam. It’s important to us to see them as part of the team right from the start, to actively involve them in the day-to-day running of the firm and to give them as varied an insight as possible into legal practice.