Insight Scheme Participant Review

Over the course of two weeks, we were exposed to a variety of activities. We listened to talks by current trainees in which they explored their practice areas, we attended skills sessions hosted by specialist legal skills providers, we learned about the place of CMS as a global law firm, we visited other regional offices, we partook in social outreach (our group did conservation work in a trust-run natural park), we were given our own casework, which was supervised by a trainee buddy, and we were tasked with researching for and delivering a presentation--all in all, a lively and thoroughly enjoyable two weeks!

During my two weeks at CMS, I enjoyed getting to know a variety of people within the organisation. Chatting with partners, I learned that there is excellent scope for career progression. CMS's senior partner at the time, Penelope Warne, delivered her resignation speech during the Insight Scheme and we were in the audience. This provided a great insight into how the organisation has grown and developed over the years. Chatting to trainees, I got the impression that CMS offers a supportive and sociable environment that empowers its solicitors to thrive. The security team, site managers, and receptionists were all also incredibly welcoming and added to the impression that CMS has a brilliant culture.

I developed my skills in a variety of ways whilst working with CMS during their insight scheme. Firstly, it was a pleasure to meet staff members at CMS and my fellow insight scheme participants. Everyone was really friendly. As a result, I enjoyed building my professional interpersonal skills. Secondly, legal researching: I was a non-Law student at the time and was really grateful to gain some hands-on legal experience. This has provided a solid foundation for my future studies. Thirdly, my oral and written advocacy skills were improved upon. I enjoyed drafting appointment contracts and collateral warranties as well as delivering presentations to colleagues. Being able to practice these skills in a supportive environment was super fun and really invaluable.

One of the biggest selling point for CMS, it seems to me, is the culture. Big law firms have a reputation for grinding their solicitors down into sorry husks of their former selves. This isn't the case at CMS! Of course, the work is hard and it is intense at times. But the trainees I spoke to said that they feel incredibly supported. The office is open plan and nobody has an assigned desk, which contributes to a sense of egalitarianism. There are loads of clubs and societies available and a pretty healthy social side to the firm. I have kept in touch with quite a few people I met on the Insight Scheme, both fellow participants and solicitors alike.

I really enjoyed it. Perhaps I shouldn't be saying this but the fact I got paid to do it was a huge bonus because I would've done it for free! CMS clearly invested a lot of time, energy, and money into ensuring that we had a beneficial and enjoyable time. The variety of activities that we were exposed to was incredible.

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