From Paralegal to Trainee Solicitor
Jennifer Kerns: Paralegal, Pannone
Group: Court of Protection
University: Sheffield Hallam University
Degree and class: LLB Hons Law 2(1)
In May 2010 I started as a Paralegal in the Court of Protection team at Pannone. Prior to this I had worked in the litigation department at a smaller firm.
Before applying for the position, I did not appreciate the breadth of work that would be covered by the Court of Protection team. However, upon researching the area further I realised that it would be an extremely rewarding area of law to work in.
The move to Pannone was a daunting one as I had never had any experience of this area of law. However, I needn’t have been worried as everyone has made me feel really welcome and there is never any suggestion of people being too busy to help. We work in an open plan environment which means that, if needed, someone is always around to ask questions.
I am the only Paralegal in the team and therefore assist all fee earners. Additionally, I have been entrusted with several of my own deputyship files which have allowed me to experience every step of the application process and the deputyship thereafter whilst being closely supervised.
Court of Protection work is varied and there is a lot to learn, however, with the strong support network that the Department provides, I feel that I am slowly building my knowledge base. On a day to day basis, my work includes taking new case calls and attending and conducting new client interviews. From the information I have gathered I will draft application documents, review evidence and advise clients accordingly. Additionally, I spend a lot of time out of the office attending conferences with clients and taking detailed notes. As a result I have built a strong relationship with many of our clients.
I feel extremely lucky to have been given the opportunity to work in this group as Pannone have one of the largest Court of Protection teams in the country – the experience I have gained is therefore second to none.
As a firm, Pannone has a great team spirit; there is a sense that the staff look after the firm and the firm look after the staff. As well as the great benefits that the firm offers, there are also a number of social events throughout the year that staff are encouraged to attend, including drinks evenings, a summer barbeque and Christmas parties. In my opinion, Pannone is a unique city firm that values its staff.
Last year, I was lucky enough to be offered a training contract with Pannone which I am due to start in March 2011. I am extremely excited; not only about starting my contract but about starting it with Pannone. Pannone are a friendly, forward thinking firm and I hope to be able to continue my career with Pannone once I qualify.
If you are interested in applying for a training contract at Pannone please complete the online form. If you have any queries please email us at graduaterecruitment@pannone.co.uk.
