Considering a legal career in Sussex? We sat down with Farzana Ullah, one of our current trainee solicitors at Coole Bevis, to explore what it’s really like to train at a modern, forward-thinking law firm.
Farzana shares her route from Legal Assistant to Trainee Solicitor, what a typical day looks like in Commercial Property, and how Coole Bevis supports junior lawyers with real responsibility, mentorship, and meaningful client exposure. With experience across Private Client and Commercial Property so far, her insight is invaluable for anyone thinking about applying for a training contract or qualifying via the SQE route.
Whether you’re already working as a paralegal, finishing your LPC/LLM, or just starting to explore careers in law, Farzana’s Q&A offers a practical, honest and motivating look into life as a trainee solicitor at Coole Bevis.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your career so far
My name is Farzana, and I am a trainee solicitor currently in my second seat in Commercial Property, having completed my first seat in Private Client. I completed my LPC/LLM in 2020 and began my legal career as a legal assistant, before moving into a paralegal role at a different firm, where I gained valuable experience in residential conveyancing.
What are your main responsibilities as a trainee solicitor?
As a trainee solicitor, my responsibilities vary depending on the department I am in, but they typically include carrying out legal research, drafting and reviewing documents, attending client meetings and liaising with third parties such as agents, HRMC and other solicitors. I am also involved in administrative and case management tasks, which gives me a well-rounded understanding of how cases are run from start to finish.
What is a typical day like in the office?
Every day is different, which keeps things exciting. A typical day starts with checking emails and updating my to-do list based on any new priorities. I’ll usually begin by responding to client emails or internal requests, then move on to reviewing files, drafting correspondence or legal documents, and liaising with third parties. I also attend client meetings, draft clear and concise attendance notes, and ensure any follow-up actions are completed in a timely and accurate manner.
What is the most interesting thing about your role?
The most interesting part about my role is the variety- no two days are the same and this is something I genuinely enjoy. For example, during my seat in Private Client, I worked on a wide range of matters, from drafting wills, attending client meetings, registering deaths, assisting with property valuations and carrying out legal research on complex matters.
I also really value the opportunities to get involved beyond legal work. For example, I attended a footgolf networking event organised by Carpenter Box, and I also had the opportunity to speak to year 10 students about careers in law as part of the firm’s outreach programme. These experiences make the role feel dynamic and meaningful.
“I also really value the opportunities to get involved beyond legal work.”
What is it like to work with us?
There’s a strong emphasis on career progression and professional development, with colleagues who are generous with their time, knowledge, and encouragement. It’s an environment where you’re constantly learning but never made to feel like you’re on your own. What stands out the most is that it’s never just about work as the firm actively encourages everyone to get involved in events, networking opportunities, and community initiatives. There’s a real sense of team spirit and belonging, which makes coming into work both motivating and enjoyable.
“What stands out the most is that it’s never just about work as the firm actively encourages everyone to get involved in events, networking opportunities, and community initiatives.”
What was the transition like from Paralegal to Trainee Solicitor? What advice would you give to someone in the same position?
The transition from paralegal to trainee solicitor felt like a natural next step but with a shift in responsibility. I genuinely believe my time as a paralegal gave me the confidence and foundation needed to begin my training contract. I had the opportunity to learn directly from an incredibly supportive fee earner who took the time to give constructive feedback and encouraged me to grow, even when I made mistakes.
Those early lessons were invaluable. I learnt to take ownership, improve my drafting, and bounce back stronger each time. My advice would be to treat your paralegal role as a foundation by asking questions, showing initiative, and building good habits early. As a trainee, the responsibilities are greater. You are expected to take more initiative, manage your own workload, and often work to tight and sometimes unexpected deadlines. The pace is faster, but the challenge is what makes the role so rewarding.
“My advice would be to treat your paralegal role as a foundation by asking questions, showing initiative, and building good habits early. As a trainee, the responsibilities are greater.”
What was the application process like?
The application process was thorough and well-balanced. It began with an initial interview, which included two short skills tests and a competency-based panel interview. I was then invited to a second stage, where I delivered a presentation followed by a further interview.
Throughout the process, I had the opportunity to demonstrate not only my legal knowledge but also how my values aligned with the firm’s culture. What stood out to me was that the firm didn’t just focus on what I already knew- they also recognised and appreciated my potential.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to apply for a training contract or qualify under the SQE route here?
My advice would be to take the time to really understand the firm’s values and tailor your application to show why you are a good fit. It is not just about academic achievements. Here at Coole Bevis, we want to see your personality, your ambition, and how you will contribute to the firm.
Gaining paralegal experience, voluntary work experience, or even non-legal work can be incredibly valuable. It helps build practical skills and shows your commitment to developing professionally.
When it comes to interviews, it is important to be yourself. Authenticity stands out. Don’t be afraid to reach out to current trainees as many of us are more than happy to share our experiences.
Networking and having those conversations can give you insight, confidence, and direction. It really does make a difference!
“When it comes to interviews, it is important to be yourself. Authenticity stands out. Don’t be afraid to reach out to current trainees as many of us are more than happy to share our experiences.“
Looking to kickstart your legal career with hands-on training and long-term progression?
Applications for the Coole Bevis 2025 Traineeship Scheme open from July 2025. Follow this link to find out more about Coole Bevis’s Trainee Solicitor Programme.
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