Each month one of our trainees will write about what it is like to be on the graduate programme at Gordons and share their observations and experiences of life as a trainee lawyer.
This month: 2nd year trainees, Graham Peycke and Laura Foley talk about their time spent in Gordons' defendant personal injury department.
The trainee seat in personal injury offers a great variety of work. It provides trainees with the opportunity to run their own files in the early stages of their career, as well as the chance to liaise with both commercial and private clients on a daily basis.
One of the trainee’s main responsibilities is the recovery of uninsured losses arising as a result of road traffic accidents involving a vehicle fleet owned by a major retailer.
As well as corresponding with other solicitors and insurance companies, trainees also investigate liability for claims, advise on the chances of successful recovery of our client’s outlay and obtain witness evidence to assist claims.
In addition to undertaking Claimant personal injury work, trainees also get involved in defending a variety of claims, many of which are brought under the Occupiers Liability Acts and Animals Acts.
The fact that Gordons allows trainees to be involved in both Claimant and Defendant personal injury work means that the trainee develops a rounded and thorough understanding of the differing approaches required with either making or defending a claim.
Each day in the department differs and could include any of the following tasks:
- Reviewing accident circumstances;
- Drafting letters of claim;
- Drafting Liability Reports;
- Obtaining witness evidence
- Issuing court proceedings;
- Quantifying appropriate levels of damages for personal injuries sustained by Claimants;
- Undertaking legal research;
- Attending and note taking in client meetings;
- Attending marketing and networking events with clients.
During our time spent in the Personal Injury Department we were made to feel an important part of the team, with all colleagues being very approachable, helpful and friendly. We both feel that we have gained invaluable experience that has helped to prepare us for life as a fully fledged solicitor.