By Nicholas PoynderWhat first attracted me to Holmans was its excellent reputation for commercial, particularly maritime, litigation. The advantage of being a specialised firm in disputes over international trade, shipping and insurance, is that while the firm is a world leader at what it does, it remains small enough for everyone to know everyone. My first seat is in commercial litigation - dealing mostly with international trade and shipping. When you handle any case involving other countries, languages and legal systems, the job is immediately more interesting - and challenging - than standard corporate work. Those I've dealt with in my first four months include a vessel and its cargo that vanished without trace, containers washed over board in a north Atlantic storm, and a cruise ship that failed almost every hygiene inspection under the sun. Cases like these involve complex legal and commercial issues. But as trainees, we have two or three seminars a week on everything from the more esoteric areas of law to the underlying realities of shipping, trade and insurance. If you didn't know much about these areas before you came, you'll find that you soon do. Trainees also attend seminars on other work done by the firm, such as company finance, commercial property and IP. Getting to grips with what are undoubtedly complex areas of the law whilst adjusting to life in practice might sound a bit overwhelming. The fact that I felt confident from the very beginning to tackle whatever a file might throw at me says a lot for the policy at Holmans of taking on just a few trainees, but supporting them to the maximum. The culture here really encourages - and rewards - enthusiasm and that, in turn, helps build your self-confidence as a lawyer. By Nicholas PoynderTrainee Solicitor, Holmans |
