First three months as a trainee solicitor

We catch up with Ryan Lysycia, who describes his first three months as a trainee solicitor.

As I reach the three-month milestone in my journey as a trainee solicitor, I’ve had the chance to reflect on what I’ve learned so far. This period has been simultaneously challenging and exciting. Here are six key lessons I've learned that I hope will resonate with fellow aspiring lawyers.

Make a strong first impression

Networking in law isn't just about exchanging LinkedIn details - it's about authentic connection. Those casual Thursday drinks? They're your secret weapon. During my first firm social, I was terrified of saying something stupid. Instead, I listened, asked questions, and discovered that lawyers are actually human beings who enjoy a good laugh.

Pro tip: show genuine interest, be authentic, and remember that everyone was once a nervous trainee.

Stay organised

Let's be real: organisation is the difference between looking like an experienced professional and a walking disaster. Find a system that works for you - whether it's a colour-coded planner or a desk covered in Post-it notes. I've learned that managing your workload isn't about perfection, it's about creating a system that prevents last-minute panic.

Embrace mistakes

Mistakes are not failures; they're learning opportunities. I once sent a draft with a laughable typo that could have changed the meaning of a legal document. Mortifying? Absolutely. A learning experience? 100%. The key is to own your mistakes, learn quickly, and move forward.

Value feedback

Feedback can feel like criticism, but it's actually a gift. I started keeping a dedicated notebook where I log every piece of constructive feedback. This helps me track my progress and ensures I'm continuously improving. Remember, those giving feedback want you to succeed.

Ask questions

Curiosity doesn't always kill the cat - it can make you a better lawyer. If you're unsure about something, ask. No question is too small and most colleagues would prefer to spend two minutes explaining something than to deal with a major error later on.

Enjoy the journey

Your training contract is a unique experience. Some days will be incredible, others will test your patience. Embrace both. Celebrate the small wins, learn from the challenges, and remember why you chose this path in law.

A final piece of advice: stay humble, stay hungry, and always keep a sense of humour. We're all figuring this out together.

Good luck!