Starting your legal career can feel daunting. Finding a firm that not only gives you practical experience but also invests in your development can make all the difference.

For Riya, that journey began with a work experience placement at Vyman Solicitors. Just a few months later, she returned to the firm as a Paralegal within our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team.

Today, she supports our team of Litigation Solicitors on a wide range of matters, works directly with clients, attends meetings, prepares court documentation and continues to build the skills needed for a long-term career in law.

Why Vyman Solicitors?

Having recently completed her degree in Law and International Relations, Riya was looking for more than just legal experience.

“I wanted to put my legal knowledge into practice and gain exposure to real legal work. Vyman had an excellent reputation locally and felt like the right place to begin my career.”

Although she had already completed a number of work experience placements, she knew she wanted to establish herself within a firm where she could continue learning and develop over the long term.

Learning Through Real Responsibility

One of the things that stood out most during Riya’s placement was the level of trust she was given from the outset.

Rather than simply observing, she became involved in active matters, drafting correspondence, reviewing settlement agreements, preparing bundles and managing case administration.

Within her first week, she was entrusted with finalising documents she had drafted before they were sent to the other side’s solicitors.

“I was surprised by the level of responsibility I was given so early. It showed that the team trusted me and wanted me to learn by getting involved.”

As her placement continued, she also had the opportunity to attend a mediation at Gray’s Inn in London, providing valuable insight into the litigation process and the role of barristers.

Since joining the team, that exposure has continued. Riya regularly has the opportunity to attend court hearings and was recently involved in the MFS litigation injunction matter, supporting the team and attending the hearing in a case which resulted in a successful outcome for the client.

“Having the opportunity to attend hearings and see complex litigation unfold first-hand has been an invaluable part of my development.”

Turning Work Experience into a Career

Riya believes it wasn’t one single thing that led to her being offered a Paralegal role, but rather her approach throughout the placement.

“I tried to take initiative wherever I could. If I finished a task, I’d ask for more work. If I wasn’t sure about something, I’d ask questions. I also made an effort to get to know people across the firm.”

That commitment, combined with a willingness to learn and contribute, resulted in an offer to join the Litigation & Dispute Resolution team on a permanent basis.

“It was incredibly rewarding. I knew during my work experience that this was somewhere I wanted to build my career, so being offered the role was a fantastic feeling.”

Life as a Litigation Paralegal

Now working full-time within the department, Riya supports the team on a broad range of litigation matters.

Her responsibilities include:

• Assisting Solicitors with active client matters
• Attending meetings and preparing attendance notes
• Drafting legal correspondence
• Preparing court bundles, disclosure and pleadings
• Managing compliance and file administration
• Supporting matters from instruction through to conclusion

Although the role has brought new challenges, she says the support available has made all the difference.

“There have been areas I’ve found challenging, particularly drafting as I haven’t yet completed the SQE. But everyone is incredibly approachable and always happy to answer questions. I’ve learned so much already.”

More Than Just Work

For Riya, one of the biggest surprises has been the culture at Vyman.

“The moment I realised this was the firm for me was when I saw first-hand during my work experience how supportive and collaborative everyone was.”

Since joining permanently, she’s also enjoyed becoming part of the wider team.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how social the firm is outside of work. There are regular firm-wide socials, departmental events, training sessions and opportunities to get to know colleagues across the business.”

Looking Ahead

Over the next six months, Riya is focused on continuing to develop her litigation knowledge while building towards qualification as a Solicitor.

She hopes to continue learning from the experienced Solicitors around her and play a part in the future success of the firm.

Advice for Future Applicants

For anyone hoping to turn work experience into a permanent opportunity, Riya’s advice is simple:

“Take initiative. Be willing to go the extra mile, ask for more work, seek feedback and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Just as importantly, get to know the people around you. Build relationships, be present and make the most of every opportunity.

If you’re thinking about applying, I’d absolutely encourage you to do it. There is so much to learn here, and whatever stage you’re at in your legal career, Vyman provides an environment where you can develop, take on real responsibility and build your future.”

Interested in joining our team?

We’re always looking for ambitious individuals who are ready to build their careers.

Explore our current opportunities on our Careers page or contact recruitment@vyman.co.uk to find out more.