Molly Cooper offers a brief look into the everyday realities, challenges and growth involved in life as a trainee solicitor.
A long road to law
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a trainee solicitor, here’s a peek into my life.
I’ve spent 21 years studying with a two year break in between. Far longer than I ever imagined, and I’m still going. I’ve always held onto the belief that hard work pays off.
Becoming a solicitor was always a dream, but I didn’t pursue it until after university, in such a competitive field, it felt like a pipe dream.
Finding my footing at Julie West Solicitors
Finding Julie West Solicitors and joining as a legal assistant at the start of my legal journey felt like the perfect first step.
Born and raised in Surrey, I enjoy quaint places with lots of nature and personality; leading me to attend Kent University because of the stunning campus (and mass of bunny rabbits!). And honestly, what more could I ask for in my workplace? Being based in such a beautiful setting means I can pull on my walking boots and wander through the, admittedly often flooded, fields on my lunch break.
However, it isn’t all sunshine and bunny rabbits. The graft never stops.
Studying, stress and the 41% pass rate
In such an unforgiving profession, you often learn your lessons the hard way, all while knowing you still have to go home and tackle that daunting chapter on easements before next week. And then there’s the looming exam with a current pass rate of 41% (as of Feb 2026). Daunting is an understatement.
Life becomes a blur of studying and learning on the job, invaluable in applying what you know, yet daunting as you realise how much remains unknown. Learning never stops. The introduction of new legislation, evolving case law, and now the rise of AI, means there is always something new to get your head around. Qualifying doesn’t end your learning; it just means you start learning in a more specific lane.
When you’re working towards qualifying, you think you’ve finally answered that childhood question of “What do you want to be when you’re older,” only to realise there are countless paths within law — and you have to choose all over again.
Support makes all the difference
There are plenty of positives, too. I’m incredibly fortunate to have the support of solicitors with such a wide breadth of knowledge, who are always willing to step in, guide me, and turn those challenging moments into learning opportunities. I genuinely feel grateful to work in such a supportive environment. It’s also worth mentioning how lucky I am to gain such hands‑on experience, not only with our clients but directly alongside our solicitors. In comparison, I’ve heard of other trainees who don’t have access to so many experienced professionals, often due to the size or hierarchical structure of their firms.
Being a trainee solicitor is a constant balancing act between excitement and exhaustion. It’s a journey filled with growth, challenge, and constant learning. Every high and low shapes me into the solicitor I am (hopefully) becoming and I can’t wait to check back in with myself in 10 years to see what’s changed.
Julie West Solicitors is pleased to assist with all aspects of residential and commercial property, wills, trusts, probate and lasting powers of attorney:
To start a conversation with your solicitor phone us on 01372 383273 or complete our online enquiry form.
Trainee solicitor Molly Cooper