Within this blog, our new paralegal, Jessica Gibbs, answers questions on her first 6 months with the firm:-
How has your first 6 months at Jones Chase gone?
My first 6 months at Jones Chase has been a great experience. I have been overwhelmed by the determination of the team in getting great results for our clients and the guiding principle that there is always something that can be done. This belief makes the role particularly rewarding, and means that no one case is approached in the same way.
What have you learned in your first 6 months?
I have learned so much in the last 6 months. In particular, I have learned a great deal about the practical side of employment law and the idea that legal advice goes further than just the law. The lawyers at Jones Chase take great care in providing bespoke advice for each client that is both legally accurate and specifically tailored to their business or personal needs.
What aspects of your role have you most enjoyed?
I have most enjoyed the opportunity to work on such a range of cases and projects with different members of the team. In particular, I enjoy shadowing the partners and senior associates in their client meetings. I also enjoy our monthly case review sessions, where we consider recent Court and Tribunal Judgments, as well as discuss any interesting points in our own live cases.
What challenges if any have you come across?
It has been interesting working alongside so many different expert lawyers and understanding that each client or case requires a different approach. This has been an excellent opportunity to enhance my communication and problem-solving skills. I have also gained significant experience in non-contentious matters over the last 6 months, where my previous experience was in Employment Tribunal litigation. Having the opportunity to work on matters across the field of employment law has made the role particularly exciting.
How have you settled in with the team?
I have settled in very well at Jones Chase; everyone across the firm has been incredibly helpful and welcoming. Everyone in the team is keen to answer any simple questions I have, and the partners and associates take the time to talk through any particularly complex cases to ensure that my understanding and knowledge is constantly developing. The office environment is friendly, supportive and collaborative.
What are you looking forward to in the next 6 months?
I am excited to incorporate the skills and knowledge I have gained over the last 6 months to continue to find creative legal solutions for our clients. I look forward to creating and managing more of my own projects, supporting my colleagues and contributing to Jones Chase’s success.