Meet Our Trainees
Rasha Albazaz | Amelia Cross | Simone Goligorsky | Brian Molloy | Anna White
Rasha Albazaz
I joined McDermott in March 2010 together with three other Trainees. Despite this small intake, we were welcomed to the Firm with a week of meetings, talks and meals through which we were able to meet most members of the London office and have all of our questions answered. This induction week highlighted the inclusive and welcoming attitude of the Firm, and dispelled any insecurities or fears I may have had on beginning my first seat. We were also each assigned an Associate 'Buddy' and encouraged to consider a Mentor as additional sources of guidance.
I am currently in my first seat working in the Employment Department. I am one of only two trainees in the Department, and have consequently enjoyed direct contact with both Partners and Senior Associates. The Department holds weekly 'know how' meetings, during which we all make presentations on recent cases and take part in discussions regarding the relevant issues. This is useful in developing presentation skills, as well as learning about the development of cases within the Department and in Employment law generally. The Department is very welcoming, and I have found that all my questions have been answered with understanding, patience and support.
The Firm's excellent reputation extends to its pro bono work, which allows you to work closely with Associates and Trainees from other departments and to liaise with McDermott offices around the world. Another Trainee and I have been responsible for the opening of a new pro bono case, which is a fantastic opportunity to understand the development of a case from the outset, including all of the administrative requirements and client care issues.
If you are looking for a Training Contract with a Firm that will provide you with challenging and high profile cases, within an environment that is team oriented, friendly and encouraging, then I would recommend McDermott without any hesitation.
Amelia Cross
Prior to joining McDermott as a trainee in September 2009, I worked in the Securitisation and Structured Finance Group for one year as a paralegal. I had previously spent six months at a magic circle firm and one of things which really stood out for me was how supportive and approachable the people at McDermott are. One of the Firm’s most admirable qualities is the non-hierarchical working atmosphere and the genuine open door policy.
There is a real focus on teamwork and as part of a small trainee intake, there is very early responsibility and continual scope to work with people in other departments throughout the training contract. Regular in-house lunchtime training sessions also provide a valuable opportunity to gain an insight into the various departments.
Although the work is often demanding, unlike many other major city law firms "face time" does not exist which means that when there is no work, you are able to go home ensuring that you are able to achieve and maintain a good work-life balance.
I am currently in my second seat as a member of the Employment Group. The work has been extremely varied thus far, providing me with a valuable opportunity to become involved in all aspects of employment law work. Weekly group know how meetings present the perfect opportunity to keep up to date with recent developments and improve your presentation skills. I have also experienced a large amount of direct partner contact.
There are many opportunities to undertake pro bono work which the Firm takes very seriously.
I would recommend McDermott to people seeking early responsibility in a supportive, non hierarchical environment.
Simone Goligorsky
After reading the copious amounts of literature about law firms in the City, which you are undoubtedly going to be subjected to over the next few months, the question you have to ask yourself is: do you want to be a trainee who spends days on end by the photocopier/ scanner/ shredder…, or do you want to be the trainee whose involvement is paramount to the progress of a particular transaction, a trainee whose knowledge is valued, a trainee who puts into practice what he/she was taught at law school? If you prefer to be the former, then McDermott is probably not for you. However, those of you who wish to be the latter, will not be disappointed once you start working for the firm.
As there is more often than not, only one trainee per department, there is a vast amount of work to be done, what I would call, ‘good quality work’, be it research, amending documents, comparing precedents and putting together presentations for clients. A large intake would allow for someone to drop off the radar or go unnoticed, but this is not the case here, at McDermott. Within the first few weeks, lots of people know who you are. Your new colleagues are very welcoming and quick to point you in the right direction, whether literally or metaphorically.
My current seat is in the Energy, Banking and Finance department, which not only gave me the opportunity to be involved in very varied transactions with clients which include international banks and investment managers specialising in energy trading. I have also been able to do work for other departments, including the Intellectual Property department, an opportunity which is, perhaps, not afforded to trainees in firms with large intakes.
When deciding whether or not to apply to McDermott, do not be put-off by the misguided perception of American law firms in London. Choosing to become a trainee at McDermott is one of the best decisions I have made and could not recommend it highly enough.
Brian Molloy
I joined McDermott as a trainee in March 2010 and am currently undertaking my first seat, in the corporate department. The nature of the work is as interesting as it is demanding. So far, I have experienced a variety of tasks, from drafting resolutions for directors and shareholders meetings, to supporting my team in connection with a sizeable joint venture involving Africa and Asia. I am exposed to some quite challenging work and a good deal of responsibility. In addition, the environment is very supportive and non hierarchical. Contributing to a highly professional team, which is committed to helping its trainees learn and encouraging them to take responsibility wherever possible, makes every minute worthwhile.
I have found that the truly international nature of the firm's work and client base is reflected by the firm’s staff. At McDermott, there is a genuine commitment to diversity among its lawyers and consequentially, individuality is seen not merely as something that is tolerated, but rather something that is prized. The firm's commitment to diversity is complemented by its pro bono endeavours. Already I am fortunate enough to have been involved in one pro bono project involving education for the underprivileged. My work involved reviewing and commenting on contractual matters. Lawyers of all levels are encouraged to be proactive on pro bono cases. This helps to foster a sense of community and team spirit, as well as aiding personal and professional development.
I feel that McDermotts is the ideal training ground for those who would flourish in an environment where responsibility and autonomy are given from day one of their contract. The learning curve is steep as a result, but you get the opportunity to feel that you are really making a contribution to the business of the firm and of its clients as a result.
Anna White
I joined McDermott as part of the March 2010 trainee intake and I am currently sitting in the Firm’s Corporate Group.
I previously paralegalled at a Magic Circle firm for a year before starting my training contract and what has stood out to me at McDermott is the superb balance between high quality international work, early responsibility and an open non-hierarchical atmosphere. It is a balance which makes for both an enjoyable and rewarding learning experience.
As part of a small trainee intake you become a valued member of the team from the outset. On my first day I took notes during an important conference call with the partner and associate on the deal, and by the end of the following week I managed, with the support of my colleagues, the closing of a small completion. I already feel that I have learnt a huge amount; with regards to not only the legal framework surrounding corporate work but also in relation to organisational and client care skills.
In addition, the flexibility of the training contract is something which I think sets McDermott apart from other City firms. The frequent opportunities to work with other departments coupled with regular in-house training sessions provides an invaluable insight into various practice areas and helps you make an informed decision with regards to seat choices. Recently I have worked directly with a partner in IP on a research project to be presented to a client and with the Energy Group where a number of us may be acting on a first rate international deal over the coming months.
For those of you who want to train in a fast paced yet supportive environment this is the firm for you.