Connor Martin - Trainee Solicitor (September 21- September 23)

Trainee Solicitor Connor Martin started his training contract with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors in September 2021 and is currently in his second seat with our Commercial team

Connor discusses why he chose to train with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors.

Where and what did you study at University before you were accepted for a Training Contract with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors?

I studied LLB Law at the University of Surrey before completing my LPC at the University of Law in Moorgate

What work had you done before you started your training, including work placements and voluntary work? Did your work experience prove useful?

In June 2018, I had a placement week at Watson Farley & Williams LLP in London in which I was part of the Real Estate team. The placement gave me the insight of the typical week of a trainee solicitor and inspired me to fully commit to a career in law.

When and why did you decide to become a solicitor with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors?

I decided that I wanted to become a solicitor through Martin Tolhurst as it is one of Kent’s leading law firms that offers a multitude of different legal services. I made the decision to give up my time for free initially in exchange for the vast experience I would gain in the busy environment of a Martin Tolhurst office. Starting at the office at the peak of the stamp duty holiday allowed me to prove myself and be considered for a training contract by the partners.

How did you get a place at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors and what did you do before?

I got a place at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors by sending out a CV in which I had tailored professionally including a headshot of myself to put a face to the name. I also attached a cover letter detailing what I wanted from the firm which was experience and potential consideration for the training contract. Before applying, I was working as an electrician at a construction site in Hatton Gardens to support myself whilst looking for law firms who would take me on. I was pleasantly surprised when I received a phone call from the Managing Partner, Richard Carter one lunchtime to tell me that they were interested in taking me on with a salary too!

How long have you been a trainee and what seats have you held?

I have been with the firm since February 2021 and officially began my training contract in September 2021 after being offered it in June 2021. I am currently in my first seat which is in the residential conveyancing department at the Medway Office and will be in my second seat this September in the litigation department, also at Medway.

What does your typical day as a trainee solicitor look like?

My typical day involves helping out other fee earners with their workloads to gain experience in residential conveyancing and learn the different aspects of a conveyancing transaction.

In the morning, I will answer any emails I need to attend to and send out emails that have been outsourced by my Supervising Partner, Kevin Denny.

Once I have done this, I will ask the fee earners to give me different types of work or work in which I am not confident in. My initial goal in starting the training contract was to learn absolutely every aspect of the job and I believe I am well on way in doing this now.  

What training and support do you receive whilst being a trainee solicitor?

I have received a tremendous amount of support from all the fee earners and support staff who are always so patient and eager to help. I believe if you go into the contract with the right attitude (to learn) then everyone is more than willing to help.

What are the best bits about being a trainee at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors?

The best part of being a trainee at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors is the freedom I have to learn as much as I want, the volume and variety of work and the incredible support I have from my colleagues.