Victoria Stratton

From: Essex
University: Durham
Year of training: Second
Current seat: Family

How did you first become interested in the law?

I studied a languages degree but always had an underlying interest in the law. That said, before I came to Farrers I worked in the travel industry as a linguist  in sales and marketing,  so very different to now.  However, once involved with the legal side of that company, the penny just dropped. I wanted an academic career that would allow me to use all of the client skills I’d already developed. Law is the perfect mixture of both and I haven't looked back.  

What’s life been like at Farrers?

Everything I’d hoped it would be. Starting was daunting, but there’s a solid support network and you feel included by everyone from day one. Trainees aren’t made to feel like just the "trainees". We're given real work from early on, by both partners and solicitors, which is both terrifying and exciting (no hiding at the photocopier). I feel that we’re regarded as an important part of the firm's fabric. An example of this is the private breakfast with the Management Board, in which they run through the firm’s commercial position with us – fees, billing, targets, everything. As well as keeping us in the loop, it also gives us the opportunity to give them any feedback we have.  Given the high trainee retention rate, we are genuinely made to feel that we are the future of the firm.

What do you think Farrers look for in their candidates?

It’s very difficult to define. I think it’s very much based on the individual, what you can personally bring to the table. It isn’t just about having a good brain because if you look at all the people who apply, everyone is clever. I don’t think that’s enough for Farrers. They want people with other interests besides work, they want people with a personality.

What have been your highlights at Farrers so far?

Being allowed to participate in a full mediation, and once an agreement was reached, typing up the agreement there and then as it was dictated by the partner. Also, the social side is a real highlight, especially getting to know the other trainees, whose support is invaluable.  

What would you say to someone thinking of applying to Farrers?

Just do it, because you never know where just being yourself can lead you. You get the opportunity to work with individuals of all levels who display outstanding acumen, but with total modesty. And when you read that the Firm has a good work-life balance, it genuinely does. I’m very proud and happy to be here, as you can probably tell. [laughs]