A week that changed everything: My journey into the Private Client Team

From day one, I was warmly introduced to the Private Client team, given a tour of the firm, and familiarised with the firm’s databases and systems. I was soon assigned a range of tasks designed to give me a genuine insight into Private Client work. These included research tasks and mock scenarios.

Throughout the week, I was grateful to accompany Vijay, Charlotte, Zara, Phil and Kate in a variety of client meetings. These included taking instructions for new wills, will codicils, lasting powers of attorney, probate matters and will signings. Following each meeting, the solicitors took the time to debrief with me, ensuring I fully understood each matter. This was something I particularly valued at Thomas Flavell & Sons, despite how busy everyone was, I never once felt overlooked or uncomfortable. It was clear that the firm places equal importance on looking after its clients and its team.

After each meeting, I drafted detailed attendance notes, which helped develop my professional writing and analytical skills. I also gained familiarity with the firm’s case management system, Actionstep, where I uploaded drafts of wills and LPAs that I had prepared using Arken. The wills I drafted varied in complexity, ranging from simple single wills to mirror wills for couples and wills containing specific gift allocations. This experience highlighted the level of care, accuracy and responsibility required when drafting documents that hold such significance for clients.

This placement allowed me to develop a strong understanding of what Private Client work entails, while also reinforcing how much more there is to learn in this area of law. Being involved in client meetings brought my theoretical knowledge to life. Topics such as tax which can often feel daunting became far more accessible when seen in practice. I gained a clearer understanding of inheritance tax, the impact of the nil-rate band and residence nil-rate band, and capital gains tax, all of which complemented my SQE 1 studies and helped place the law into a practical context.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience was being part of such a supportive and encouraging team. Everyone was always willing to explain concepts, answer questions and support my learning throughout the week. I am especially grateful to Charlotte for allowing me to accompany her on a home visit, which was a truly memorable experience and demonstrated the compassionate, client-focused nature of Private Client work.

This experience reinforced that Private Client law is not solely about efficiency or technical skill, but also about empathy and understanding. Clients are often navigating emotional and sensitive periods in their lives, and it is essential to combine professionalism with a human approach. I found that this aspect of Private Client work suited me particularly well, drawing on my previous customer facing experience and my natural desire to help others.

One key takeaway from my time in the Private Client team is the importance of having essential legal documents in place, such as wills and lasting powers of attorney, and the significant implications that can arise when they are not. For anyone who has not yet made these arrangements, Thomas Flavell & Sons provide clear, supportive guidance, stripping away legal jargon and ensuring clients feel informed, reassured and confident in their decisions.

My time at Thomas Flavell & Sons has been beyond rewarding, and I am absolutely thrilled to share that, as a result of my work experience, I will be joining the firm permanently as a Paralegal within the Private Client team. I am incredibly excited to continue my learning journey at Thomas Flavell & Sons and to contribute to such an amazing and welcoming team.

I would like to sincerely thank everyone at Thomas Flavell & Sons for welcoming me and making me feel that I truly belong.