As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with some Jacksons apprentices to find out how they were enjoying their roles and courses.
Today, David Armitage, 19, from Middlesbrough, shares his experience of being the firm’s first solicitor apprentice.
“I started at Jacksons Law in September 2022 as their first solicitor apprentice. I am now in my second year working in the commercial property team.
“I have worked in both the residential conveyancing team and the commercial property team and have worked on a range of different property matters so far.
“The team have been incredibly supportive and welcoming. People have always had time to help me when I am stuck or have questions over tasks I have. Before starting, I was nervous that my lack of experience and knowledge when it came to law might cause issues, however I quickly realised that this was not the case. It was not expected that I would turn up from day one and be able to complete work by myself without assistance.
“I started my apprenticeship in the residential conveyancing team, which allowed me to build some key skills especially in relation to using the case management software and speaking to and dealing with clients.
“I was constantly being taught and helped to build new skills to allow me to progress to running my own files within six months of starting. I worked closely with Jonathan Wall during my time in residential conveyancing, who despite his busy schedule was always available to show me how to complete new tasks and check through work I completed.
“I think one of the biggest benefits to working at Jacksons compared to other firms is the time partners, and other highly experienced members of staff set aside to help apprentices and trainees progress in their careers and hone their skills.
“In July 2023, I moved from the residential conveyancing team to the commercial property team. I spent nearly a full year in the residential department, which is one of the other benefits to completing the apprenticeship.
“By doing the apprenticeship you can spend longer in the different departments you complete a seat in compared to during a training contract. This means you can spend longer building up skills and knowledge and have chance to put these into practice before moving onto your next seat.
“I have really enjoyed the new challenge and the different work I have been exposed to since joining the commercial property department. I have been able to build on many of the skills I learned during my time in the residential team and apply these to a new set of challenges.
“I have spent a lot of time working with Erica Turner while in the commercial property team, and she has again always been available to assist me with my work and help push me along, by introducing me to different transactions. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working at Jacksons so far.
“In addition to my work at Jacksons, I have also been studying for my degree. As part of the apprenticeship, you complete an LLB with the University of Law. I have really enjoyed this side of the apprenticeship. It has been incredibly interesting to see how the work I am doing in the office relates to the theoretical side of the law.
“I would highly recommend the apprenticeship to anyone and would urge anyone who is considering qualifying as a solicitor to get in touch with Jacksons.”
