Need career advice

Johnny Utah

I'm interested to hear what people think about the following:


For the past three years, I've been looking for a trainee solicitor contract and more recently I have offered to work for free in order to gain experience. However, there doesn't seem to be any solicitors interested in taking me on in the current climate.

If I don't secure a training contact by September 2011, the exams I've already passed will expire and I will have to pursue something else.

(1) So, is it a good approach to offer to work for free in the hope that a solicitor might take me on, or am I'm being slightly naive in that by working for free I'll probably be taken advantage of?

(2) Is it pointless trying to find a training contact over the next 12 months?

Johnny Utah

Anyone?

krd

In the current climate - if you don't have the social connections to get you a placement with a solicitor you're out of the game.

Your best option, if you still want to train as a solicitor is to offer to work for free if you can.

Of course you'll be exploited - but it's the only real option you have.

Though I'd say many solicitors would gladly see the trainees vanish as the pickings are getting very slim for all concerned.

carolwarol

Hey Johnny Utah

You could def consider the work for free route -and whilst in there try to generate a new client base which will hopefully ensure you are kept on. Maybe try to focus on employment legislation etc, cases are on the increase and lots of firms don't have this type of practical expertise. You coudl approach currrent client base offering new service!