Your career at Martineau by Graduates4law

Your career at Martineau

"One of the things I really appreciate as a trainee at Martineau was the contact I had with the firm before starting my training contract. We were invited to several get togethers before joining in September and it was a really good opportunity to meet both the current trainees and those I would eventually be starting with. It broke the ice and just knowing a few familiar faces on the first day was a big help. I would definitely recommend coming along if you can.

Martineau also operates a scheme whereby each current trainee acts as a point of contact for one of the trainees who will be starting in September. It offers an informal way of asking questions and the current trainees can help with things like accommodation or general info on Birmingham.

The first week of joining provided a good introduction without putting two much pressure on. We were given lots of practical information on the things you need to know before going into your first seat. It was also a chance to get to know each other and to meet other people in the firm."
Catherine Yule, Trainee Solicitor 2007-2009 NQ, Commercial Disputes 2009

"Martineau is an excellent place to spend your training contract. It has always been recognised as a friendly, welcoming firm.

The modern, open plan offices allow a much greater interaction with staff of all levels. Workstations are shared with fee-earners, involving you in the team and ensuring there is always someone available to help and learn from.

Having the opportunity to undertake 6 seats of 4 months has many benefits. The 4 month period is sufficient to gain experience within the team and undertake a range of quality work. But this system also allows you to experience a wide range of law outside of the 4 core departments, allowing you to meet more people within Martineau and improving inter-departmental communication. It is wise to keep an open mind concerning departments which you had not previously considered. The work undertaken, in practice, can be unlike what you had expected. In the event you find the department is not for you, then you do not waste months in a department you are not enjoying.

The opportunity to return to your preferred department in your final seat allows you to hit the ground running on qualification and keeps you ahead of trainees in other firms."
Stephen Atkinson, Trainee Solicitor 2004 - 2006 (Qualified into our Private Client Group in 2006)