Trainee Solicitor (Justice First Fellowship)

1. ASSISTING WITH CASE CONDUCT

Definition:

Every case receives the optimum level of skill and level of professional competence.

Performance Standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. advice and action is kept within the areas of competence identified by the Solicitor with conduct and/or Training Principal 
2. the client’s case is attended diligently to achieve the best possible outcome.
3. case deadlines, as identified by the Solicitor with conduct, are achieved. 

2. CASE ADMINISTRATION

Definition:

All cases are efficiently administered.

Performance Standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. a case (or file) is opened as requested, all information accurately and systematically recorded, and the database is kept up to date.
2. any case plan is implemented, as directed by the Solicitor with conduct.
3. the case is progressed within its funding limitations.
4. all time expended on a matter is accurately recorded.
5. if using the services of others you ensure that they are on the firm’s approved list and that their performance is monitored, if appropriate for you to do so.
6. all correspondence and other communication which you are asked to progress is attended to in a timely fashion.
7. all time is accurately recorded on the file and on the office computerised time recording software.

3. CLIENT CARE

Definition: 

All clients are treated to the highest possible professional standards including; adhering to meeting times, level of respect, courtesy, and quality of advice. 

All clients are informed of the complaint’s procedure and cost implications of their cases.

Performance Standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. at the outset of the case the legal issues are established, in consultation with the Solicitor with conduct and/or Training Principal.
2. you ensure that the client is kept updated on case progress as appropriate to the tasks you are requested to carry out.
3. the client is informed in writing of the firm’s complaints procedure, and you ensure that any complaints are processed in accordance with that procedure.
4. you comply with any request by your Training Principal and/or Solicitor with conduct to advise the client in writing at the outset of the case of the cost  and updated every six months with regard to costs.
5. client confidentiality is maintained at all times.
6. all other requirements of the Law Society’s Code of Conduct and professional ethics are complied with at all times.

4. SUPERVISION

Definition:

Support and guidance is received from the Training Principal and/or Solicitor with conduct of the case in order to maximise performance and development as a Trainee Solicitor and provide a professional standard of service to the client. 

Performance Standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. you carry out work within the limitations of your training, skills and experience.
2. you seek guidance from your Training Principal and/or Solicitor with conduct of the case (as appropriate) if you are unsure.
3. you attend supervision sessions as requested and act on the supervision received.

5. COST MANAGEMENT

Definition:

Cases are progressed within the costs conditions which apply to them.

Performance Standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

• all internal financial controls and instructions are followed.

6. OFFICE MANUAL

Definition:

Compliance with the issues outlined in the office manual where it affects your role.

Performance standards:

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. you are fully conversant with the Office Manual and its contents.
2. you keep up-to-date with changes in the Manual.

7. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Definition:

In consultation with your Training Principal  and/or Solicitor with conduct of the case, identification of education and training required to develop professional and administrative skills, knowledge, and competence.

Performance Standards

Performance is satisfactory when:

1. you identify your training requirements and request training through your supervisor.
2. you comply with all Law Society and SRA requirements for Trainee Solicitors
3. you report on courses attended to your departmental meeting.
4. you comply with the requirements of the office manual regarding training

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Job Description – Trainee; Reviewed April 2023

Applications must be made through the Justice First Fellowship website by completion of their application form