A day in the life of a trainee solicitor at Ashfords

What does trainee life at Ashfords really look like?

We spoke to third seat trainee, Tamar, about a typical day in a Real Estate seat at the firm.

7:15am - 8:15am

If the weather is good, I often start my day with a cycle* into the Exeter office, along the cycle path from Teignmouth. *Disclaimer: Here, my ‘typical day’ is taking place in the summer, otherwise my morning would start an hour later and almost certainly involve the car! 

8:15am - 8:45am 

I use the shower facilities at the office to get ready for work. You’ll often find other early-bird Ashfords employees using the office gym at this time of day. Once I’m ready, I ease into the working day by checking my inbox. 

9:00am - 11:30am

This morning I’m reviewing a deed of covenant, on behalf of our local authority client and drafting a letter of advice. The task relates to one of many initiatives being implemented by our client, to reduce its nitrate emission levels and achieve ‘nutrient neutrality’. 

11:30am - 13:00am

After a quick coffee at ‘the Truck’ (Ashfords’ own portable equivalent of Pret), I crack on with preparing stamp duty land tax (SDLT) returns and draft land registry documents, involving the sale of multiple titles in Dorset. 

1:00pm - 2:00pm

Like most days I have lunch with other trainees and paralegals, then head out for a 20-minute stroll.

2:00pm - 4:00pm

This afternoon I’m accompanying a senior fee earner to a meeting with a landowner client, who is looking to enter into an option agreement. The client is seeking advice on the suitability of bids he’s received from three interested developers. 

4:00pm - 5:00pm

I’ve been assisting the planning team in drafting S106 agreements on behalf of another local authority client. This afternoon I need to circulate some engrossments to the signatories and raise invoices for the s106 contribution. I’ve been trusted to manage these files, although help is always on hand if needed. 

5:00pm - 5:30pm

Next, I’m assisting with a website article. This is one of the ‘nonbillable’ tasks that trainees can get involved in. We also help to organise department away days or the annual summer party! 

5:30pm onwards

If I’ve cycled to work, inevitably there’s only one way I’m getting home. However, there are many activities you can get involved in. These involve socials with the Exeter Young Business Club (XYBC), evening football, the weekly walking group, PT sessions (which I hear are quite brutal!), indoor climbing and more. The firm is very encouraging of a healthy work-life balance – you’ll always have time for your hobbies in the evenings.

The trainee application window opens on Wednesday 1 November. You can find out more about trainee life at Ashfords by visiting our graduate opportunities page.