A Transformative Two Weeks at Thomas Flavell & Sons Solicitors

As a final-year law student on the JD Pathway at the University of Leicester, I have always sought experiences that challenge me, inspire me and bring me closer to the legal profession I am working so hard to enter. My two-week work placement at Thomas Flavell & Sons Solicitors (TFS) exceeded every expectation I had, both in terms of professional development and personal growth.

I had the opportunity of joining the firm’s Residential and Commercial Conveyancing Department, working under the guidance of Matthew Thom, a remarkable solicitor and mentor. 

From day one, Matthew and his team welcomed me with open arms and genuine encouragement. What followed was a fast-paced, hands-on immersion into the world of property law and transactional work.

Over the course of my placement, I had the chance to contribute meaningfully to real legal matters. I assisted with drafting and reviewing a share purchase agreement, conducting due diligence and composing detailed client letters. I was entrusted with preparing adverse possession documentation for submission and contributed to commercial lease drafting. 

My exposure extended to researching promotional agreements and their potential implication to protect our client’s interest in the process. I even had the privilege of preparing a draft settlement agreement for a contentious commercial matter. These were not theoretical exercises - these were real documents, for real clients, under the supervision of seasoned professionals.

Beyond drafting and document work, I was also given the invaluable opportunity to attend client meetings with Matthew, Charlotte and Zara respectively. Observing how they each conducted themselves with clarity, empathy and professionalism gave me a front-row seat to the interpersonal dimension of legal practice that textbooks often overlook.

Charlotte and Zara, members of the Private Client Department, gave me a glimpse into how they approach drafting Wills and Powers of Attorney documents. This offered me unique insight regarding the nature of relationship between solicitor and client - one deeply rooted in trust and transparency whilst guiding clients through some of life’s most important decisions.

One of the many aspects that stood out to me about TFS was the firm’s commitment to evolving with the times. The firm employs a proprietary client onboarding software and a digital-first case management system that makes client interactions seamless and efficient. TFS is forward-thinking in their approach, reflecting the firm’s adaptability and dedication to excellence.

What makes TFS truly exceptional, however, is its people. Every member of the team- from the reception staff to the legal assistants, paralegals and solicitors - are client-orientated, approachable, and deeply committed to providing top-tier legal services. 

I was never treated as “just” a student - I was brought into the fold, trusted with real responsibility and encouraged to ask questions, share ideas and take ownership of my learning.

These two weeks have left an indelible mark on my journey to becoming a solicitor. They’ve solidified my passion for the legal profession, enhanced my practical skills, and most importantly, connected me to a firm that exemplifies the best of what legal practice can be.

To Matthew, Elizabeth, Amanda, Georgia, Charlotte, Zara and everyone at TFS: thank you for your mentorship, trust and kindness. I leave with immense gratitude and a fervent drive to pursue a meaningful legal career.