With the deadline for placement applications at Frettens rapidly approaching, students might still have a couple of questions on their mind.
So, in this article, Isobel Forward, current placement student at Frettens, answers some of those questions…
What’s it like working at Frettens?
Frettens has a very supportive environment, everyone is happy to help and assist wherever you need, and the firm as a whole provide a lot of trust and freedom.
Frettens does not have a stuffy, corporate feel to it like you may expect from a Law Firm. Everyone at the firm knows each other and is always happy to help and talk when needed.
What does your role involve at the firm?
I started out in an administrative role, being a first point of call for clients when setting up their files for their conveyancing transaction.
Since then, I have taken on more responsibility, assisting in sale transactions by sending out contract packs and communicating with the buyer’s solicitor in the process.
Being only half-way through my placement, I know there will be plenty more opportunities ahead of me to grow and gain experience. Frettens has a very growth orientated atmosphere.
Read more about Placement work from previous student Gregory Cooke here.
What are the people like at Frettens and what sort of support do you get?
Everyone at Frettens is supportive, happy to provide you with assistance and explain things in detail, which is great for a placement student. I feel I can go to anyone at any level, including partners, and they will always find the time to help me out.
A 9-5 office job may not appeal to all students, however the people at Frettens make you want to go work and make progression enjoyable.
Before I started here, I wasn’t 100% sure that I’d want to qualify into the industry but, after 6 months of support at Frettens, I’m now completely certain of it!
Read about the benefits of working at Frettens here.
How has the placement prepared you for a career in law?
My placement year has given me a real insight into the legal world and how a law firm works, something that university simply can’t give you!
I’ve now got my ‘foot in the door’ and, by the end of the placement, will have an abundance of experience under my belt.
The ‘Frettens Academy’ sessions, in particular, have given me an insight into how the other departments at Frettens operate, and the skills you need to become a fantastic solicitor…it doesn’t just take good grades!
Related: How does a placement year prepare you for a legal career?
Why did you choose Frettens to undertake your placement year?
I chose Frettens for my placement year because of how approachable they are. After speaking to some friendly staff members from Frettens at a couple of networking events, I quickly realised that they were the right firm for me. After joining the firm, this became even clearer.
There’s no rigid hierarchy structure at Frettens, which was important to me when applying, as I knew I’d be able to talk to all members of staff regardless of qualification. As it turns out, this has been really helpful and allowed me to gain a wide range of skills and knowledge.
Read my colleague Susie Moore’s thought on her placement year here.
What are the staff events like?
Frettens hold lots of regular social events, from smaller scale gatherings like first Friday drinks to big annual Christmas and Summer parties.
Regular staff events like these are great, as everyone gets the chance to enjoy each other’s company outside of a work setting.
This is especially important for those who have just joined the firm, as it gives you the opportunity to get involved and meet other people from teams who you may not normally come across day to day.
What tips do you have for applying?
When applying for a placement at Frettens, I would recommend speaking to as many people as possible already within the firm, as you need to make sure the firm is the right fit for you. This will allow you to get a feel for the culture and what it is like to work here.
Placement applications shouldn’t be a scary process, and being prepared can make things much easier. Looking into the firm you’re applying to is a great place to start, as it will both demonstrate your keen interest and show that you’re willing to go the extra mile.
Being yourself in interviews is very important, as law firms will also be trying to ascertain whether you’d be a good fit.
Should I apply at Frettens?
I would recommend a placement year at Frettens to any student wanting to qualify in the legal sector. Frettens are accommodating and supportive, and provide ample opportunity for you to apply your university knowledge into practice.
They have such a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere and, through working here, you get a deeper understanding of law, setting you up perfectly for your final year at uni.
Placements at Frettens
We are currently looking for two students to join us for summer 2025. The deadline for applications is 7th February 2025.
Please send your CV and covering letter to csnow@frettens.co.uk
Find out more about the programme and when we'll be looking for students again on our dedicated placements page here.
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