From Courtrooms to Case Files
Samantha Christien is a trainee solicitor in the Central London office having joined Blackfords LLP in January 2023. She graduated from the University of Law in 2022 having achieved a Distinction in her LPC and MSc in Law, Business and Management. Currently working within the Dispute Resolution/Criminal Litigation team she is soon to join the Regulatory team. Here she shares her journey in Law providing an insight into the fast-paced, complex and rewarding world of a trainee solicitor.
What motivated you to pursue a career in law, specifically in criminal defence and regulatory matters?
My personal career goals motivated me to pursue a career in law. Having undertaken previous work experience and exploring various legal practices I thoroughly enjoyed the practical application of law and being in a client facing environment. Additionally, I sought a role that satisfies self-development as well the opportunity to progress professionally. Both criminal and regulatory matters are dynamic; the law is constantly evolving, and lawyers are required to interpret, strategise and advice clients. A career in law provides both stability and a clear route for progression and there is a continuous demand for legal professionals whether in a personal or business circumstance. Criminal litigation and regulatory matters both provide a personal aspect to legal work as well as complementing one another where often regulatory breaches can lead to criminal investigations.
What have you found most challenging and rewarding about working on high-profile cases involving the Financial Conduct Authority, Serious Fraud Office, and HMRC?
Working on high-profile cases involving regulatory bodies provides both unique challenges and significant rewards. Often cases involving the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) involve a vast amount of disclosure often derived from lengthy investigations. The first FCA prosecution I was involved in related to a former Clifford Chance employee who was charged with six offences of insider dealing and three offences of fraud by false representation. In the lead up to trial I reviewed and analysed significant amounts of data pertaining to specific stocks and shares. I was simultaneously running a small caseload of my own. To keep all matters moving forward, I learnt how to manage my time effectively and prioritise tasks with time allowed for understanding and learning if I lacked knowledge of specific procedures. I collaborated closely with two established Senior Barristers and an expert witness on this matter, further honing the skills necessary to contribute effectively to team success. At the close of the prosecution case our leader made both legal and evidential submissions which led to the FCA offering no evidence on three counts of fraud, and the jury was directed to return a not guilty verdict on the remaining six counts of insider dealing. The most rewarding aspect of this case was securing the right, and best possible outcome for our client.
What valuable experiences have you been able to draw from working closely with Partners and Senior Solicitors in the firm?
Working closely with Partners and Solicitors at Blackfords LLP has given me a unique experience; observing and learning from their expertise in navigating complex and sometimes high-profile legal matters is immeasurable from a developmental perspective. I have gained an insight into high-level decision making, managing client relationships, expectations, and how to approach problem-solving with a broader strategic perspective. I am provided regular feedback from colleagues which has taught me how to effectively draft legal documents in a clear and concise format as well as tailoring my written communication to suit those with different working styles. Expanding a professional network is vital in the legal sector; all Partners and Solicitors at Blackfords LLP have established relationships with other firms, chambers and corporations. Finally, I have learned that compassion, dedication and strong communication skills are essential in fostering a solid client-firm relationship. I look forward to continuing to learn from their example as I progress in my legal career.
What advice would you give to aspiring law students who want to secure training contracts?
1. Be Resilient: Applying for a training contract can be disheartening. It is not uncommon to do the annual rounds two or three times before securing a training contract. Use every set back to your advantage and gain an understanding of the different application processes.
2. Be Yourself: It is crucial to remember that your own personal experiences and attributes are those which make you stand out from other applicants. No matter how small or irrelevant you think your experiences are they would have taught you transferable skills which will assist you to work in a city law firm.
3. Do your Research: Half the battle is finding a law firm which ‘ticks your boxes’. I.e. the range of practice areas, the development opportunities and the sizes of teams (to name a few). Attend as many in person and remote events as you can. The only way to truly get to know a law firm is by meeting its employees. The next battle is demonstrating why you are a suitable applicant. Be innovative and illustrate to the firm why you are not just an applicant, but an ideal future solicitor for their team.
