National Careers Week – Samuel Flower
Why did I come to Gotelee?
I came to Gotelee to focus on and develop my skills in an area of law (Private Client) I was certain I wanted to qualify into, when I had completed my training. The opportunity came along with a view to sharing this with another area (Contentious Probate) I was interested in, which was closely related. It also helps to see the common mistakes and pitfalls so that I know what not to do! I heard nothing but good things about Gotelee before becoming a member of the team especially noting they are One to Watch – Best Employers in the Eastern Region in 2018. They have a hub in the county town in Suffolk but also have recognised the importance of having bases in local, more rural locations and thrive because of it.
How has it been?
My time at Gotelee, simply put, has been brilliant. I have continued to enhance my knowledge and skills in my chosen area of law, building on the foundations from my previous firm. I have been given the tools and confidence to (hopefully!) be a competent solicitor and valued asset to the firm. The involvement I have had in our contentious matters has sparked an interest I am keen to continue to learn as my career progresses.
How am I feeling about my new role and qualifying?
I qualify as a solicitor this month after what seems like a lifetime. In actual time though it has been 6 and a half years. Not quite long enough to use the classic “you’d get less for murder” line but still, a lot can be done in that time (like a degree, legal practice course and 2 years qualifying employment). I’m not sure I will ever feel truly ready but does anyone? What I will say though is that I am as ready as I’ll ever be, I’ve had an exceptional breadth of training and the knowledge that I will continue to be supported as I transition from trainee to qualified. It also helps when I’m reminded that I’m not expected to know everything over night!
Opportunities since being here?
I am new to working in Suffolk but Gotelee is not, Gotelee is and has been a staple in Suffolk for decades. As a result of this and the support given to me by everyone at the firm, I have been able to dedicate the time necessary to develop existing skills, learn new ones and integrate into the area. If I have ever expressed a desire to carry out professional development, it has been met with positivity and excitement with cost consideration coming later. Gotelee invest in their staff who, in turn, then invest their time and effort with Gotelee for the benefit of our clients. It’s a win win.
