Apprentice Paralegal Review

I’ve really enjoyed the programme so far, and the highlight has definitely been the people. Working with such a diverse group and meeting new faces every day has been an invaluable experience. Whether it’s clients, lawyers, or business operations employees, interacting with a variety of individuals has made the programme so much more enjoyable. It’s also helped to make the induction and onboarding process a lot smoother and more welcoming.

Every day I’m able to learn something new and develop my skills. Whether it’s improving my writing by reading emails from senior colleagues or sharpening my time management by handling tight deadlines, there’s always room to grow. I’ve also picked up new skills like problem-solving, by figuring out the best way to approach tasks under pressure, and teamwork, through collaborating effectively with colleagues from different departments.

There are so many opportunities to get involved at the firm. We have regular social events, such as games nights, quizzes, drinks, or even dinners. These events can be organised for the whole office, just the paralegals, or even smaller groups within individual teams, and they take place throughout the year. As an apprentice, I also receive invitations to networking events hosted by other firms. These have been incredibly beneficial, as they provide a chance to connect with others in the same position as me—an opportunity I might not otherwise have. Additionally, there’s a strong emphasis on community involvement and charitable work. I’ve personally been involved in the Read to Write programme, where I visit primary schools to help children develop their literacy and writing skills. The firm also offers other initiatives, such as food bank volunteering, pro bono legal work, and career workshops.

When applying to Pinsent Masons, it’s clear that the firm is focused on finding candidates who are the right fit for their culture and values. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to ensure the firm is the right fit for you as well. Doing thorough research about Pinsent Masons - our values, work environment, and structure - is key. Demonstrating this understanding in your interviews and assessment centres shows genuine interest and commitment. Throughout the application process, it’s far more effective to showcase your personality and individuality rather than relying on scripted answers. The firm values authenticity and the transferable skills you’ve gained from your education, work experience, or extracurricular activities, and how they align with the apprenticeship criteria.
Importantly, the firm doesn’t expect you to have any prior legal knowledge or experience, as these will be learned on the job. Instead, they focus on your transferable skills, such as teamwork, communication, or problem-solving, and how these can be applied effectively in the role. Viewing the application process as a learning opportunity is also crucial. If you’re not successful, reflecting on the experience can help identify areas for improvement and build your confidence for future applications, whether with Pinsent Masons or another firm.