Transitioning into a new area of law can be both challenging and invigorating. I recently discovered this after moving from clinical negligence to the world of wills and probate as I begin my first year as a Solicitor Apprentice.
This change has brought fresh learning experiences and exposed me to a more personal side of legal practice, filled with unique insights and meaningful client interactions. My first month in the wills and probate department, has been a period marked by professional growth, reflective client engagement, and new responsibilities.
Embracing a New Legal Landscape
Coming from a clinical negligence background, I was already familiar with the delicate nature of client interactions, often working with clients experiencing trauma or loss. However, the move to wills and probate brought a shift in focus, offering an equally compassionate yet distinctly different client experience. Wills and probate touches on people’s lives in deeply personal ways, and I quickly discovered how impactful this field can be, dealing with end-of-life planning, the importance of inheritance implications, and sometimes complex family dynamics.
As I’ve embarked on this new journey, I have been struck by the level of trust clients place in their solicitor, entrusting them not only with their legal needs but with their deeply personal stories.
Learning how to guide clients with both legal expertise and empathy is a crucial part of the role we play in the legal sector, a skill set that I know will continue to grow as I delve deeper into wills and probate.
Key Events in my First Month
My first month in Wills & Probate has involved a variety of responsibilities, many of which took me beyond the office and into the community, where I witnessed the impact that connecting with clients on a more personal level can have.
- Home Visits
One of the unique aspects of wills and probate is the opportunity to meet clients in their own homes. These visits allows solicitors to see clients in a comfortable environment where they can openly discuss their concerns and wishes. Preparing for a home visit required thoughtful planning, particularly in terms of ensuring that all the necessary documents and information had been obtained. During these visits, I noted the importance of attentive listening and clear communication that the Wills & Probate team demonstrate, as clients often have questions about the implications of their decisions on family members or complex assets. - Initial Will Instruction Meetings
Being a part of will instruction meetings has quickly become a regular part of my schedule. These meetings involve gathering essential information from clients, such as details of their assets, beneficiaries, and any specific wishes they may have. Each session brought its own challenges, with clients presenting a wide variety of family structures, assets, and personal wishes that require careful legal consideration. I promptly learned the value of asking the right questions, anticipating areas where clients might need further guidance, such as the role of executors, guardianship for minors, or charitable giving. The meetings were also an opportunity to see how our solicitor’s ability to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms, fosters trust within our clients. - Hospice Free Will Clinic
A standout experience in my first month was a day spent at The Hospice of the Good Shepherd, where I participated in the monthly free will clinic. This initiative allows Oliver & Co to offer our services pro bono, an experience that was both humbling and rewarding. Working in a hospice setting provided a stark reminder of the real-life impact that effective will planning can have, especially for families facing challenging times. This experience underscored the value of empathy and compassion in legal practice. These sessions were brief but impactful, requiring quick understanding of each individual’s wishes while providing them with clear and concise advice.
Reflections and Insights
Reflecting on this first month, has helped me understand the personal side of wills and probate. Wills and probate provides the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. For clients, creating a will or managing probate is not just about legal documentation but about leaving a legacy and ensuring their loved ones are cared for.
One of the main challenges has been adjusting to the complex and varied nature of probate law, which requires staying updated on the latest regulations and tax laws. However, I have found this to be an intellectually stimulating aspect of the role, by seeing the importance of utilising the ability to provide careful analysis and problem-solving.
Looking Forward
After a fulfilling first month, I am eager to continue building on this foundation, enhancing both my technical expertise and client management skills. I am hopeful that the next few months will bring more complex cases, offering me the chance to further develop my understanding of estate planning, inheritance tax implications, and the intricacies of probate administration.
Overall, transitioning to wills and probate has proven to be a rewarding change, providing not only professional growth but also a meaningful connection to clients and the community.
My endeavours into Wills & Probate may have just begun, but they are already shaping up to be defined by compassion, expertise, and profound commitment to helping clients navigate one of the most important decisions they will make.
I look forward to spending the next year within the department as I start my journey as Oliver & Co’s first Solicitor Apprentice.
