Commercial Law Industrial Placement Review

My role involves managing the legal inbox by responding to queries from colleagues in other departments and also allocating matters to other legal advisers. I was also given the responsibility of negotiating the majority of the NDAs that came into the legal inbox. As well as taking on NDAs, I shadowed the legal advisers on larger contract negotiations with customers and suppliers. I also had the opportunity to help work experience students by running sessions to impart the knowledge I have gained onto them.

As the placement went on, I was given more and more responsibility. I was responsible for the handling of the legal inbox and all NDAs and other faster turnaround matters. As it continued, I was eventually given the opportunity to be involved in the contract management function of the legal team and liaise directly with members on a specific customer account and the customer themselves to ensure a smooth day-to-day running of the contract.

One skill I have picked up is the art of negotiation - I have grown to understand that, although it is important for contracts to be legally accurate, I must also consider whether the point I'm making is commercially viable and both parties are happy with it. A skill I have developed is being able to use AI effectively to improve efficiency. Not relying solely on AI but using it as a basis for research and drafting and developing on it using my own knowledge.

More than enough support and guidance. Everyone on the team and throughout the company was very approachable and helpful. I always knew who I could go to for help or who would point me in the right direction. I also had regular check-ins with my manager to ensure that I was enjoying the role and an opportunity to ask any questions.

The culture and atmosphere was generally positive.

I have really enjoyed the placement and experiencing what it's like to work in-house.

Yes