Case study

Amina Belhadj — Solicitor apprentice

Employer
Dentons

After finishing school sixth form, Amina managed to secure a solicitor apprenticeship in real estate with leading law firm Dentons

Why did you decide on a career in law?

I found the subject interesting at school, and working in law is a career where you are constantly learning. The law is always changing, and as a result, so are the work and projects solicitors participate in.

I found commercial law particularly interesting because I enjoyed business studies in school. After attending various firm open days, I found the insights into how businesses operate and how lawyers advise them fascinating.

Why opt for an apprenticeship over other qualification routes?

I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted to learn law hands-on. Through the apprenticeship, I work with legal professionals every day, which has given me the ability to understand the tasks solicitors do and how law is woven into the workplace from a young age.

If you prefer practical over classroom-based learning, I recommend choosing this route.

Also, by the time of qualification, I will have had six years of experience working in a law firm, as opposed to two through the traditional route. This additional experience is invaluable, especially as it will hopefully enable me to know which sector of law I want to go into.

Finally, another big reason is that the route is fully funded, and the degree and salary are paid, which is a huge benefit for anyone leaving school, as it has been for me.

How did you find and apply for your apprenticeship?

I found this apprenticeship through Google searches of solicitor apprenticeships. It is also part of the City Century consortium. I applied for the apprenticeship by using these resources:

  • Legal Cheek - for summaries of law firms to choose preferences.
  • Legal Green Guide - if being eco-friendly is important to you.
  • Chambers and partners - a detailed ranking of law firms across different areas.
  • Legal 500 - lists awards that firms have received and provides guides on various industries.
  • City Century - an initiative by London law firms, listing those who do the apprenticeship programme.
  • The Forage - a consortium of law firms that offer free virtual law work experience.
  • Firm websites - outline their values, their work and sometimes offer application tips.
  • Attend firm open evenings - many advertise these on their websites, so keep an eye out.

Can you describe your job and what you do on a day-to-day basis?

As I am in real estate, my work is predominantly focused on properties, selling, leasing and managing them. As such, I deal with the Land Registry, submitting forms as well as drafting documents regarding properties, such as when a landlord wants to grant a lease. I also conduct research to assist fee earners with their work, such as recent cases and checking term definitions.

What has been the highlight of your solicitor apprenticeship so far?

It has been giving back to others who want to apply for apprenticeships, particularly by attending my former school's careers fair. I found it great answering questions from students regarding apprenticeships, the application process, and my experience so far.

What kind of tasks do you complete on a typical day?

  • drafting documents, such as statutory declarations to contract a lease out of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954
  • drafting licences for alterations, for when a tenant wants to alter their premises
  • managing a client data room, to ensure relevant documents can be viewed.

What sort of support network do you have at your company?

At Dentons, I have a support network with fellow apprentices. I often have lunch with my cohort, which is great because we talk about experiences and thoughts and give each other advice.

Moreover, trainee/apprentice socials are a great way to connect with fellow juniors outside of work. I am part of the social committee and recently attended the 2025 'big trip' in Northumberland, where I participated in a range of activities, from watersports to archery.

How do you balance working with studying?

I use my study day for studying. I plan and draft out the format of notes I am going to write, and I do this when going through workshops. This enables me to revise more effectively. I also make sure that the time I spend studying is focused - no distractions, such as my phone, are around.

Can you debunk a myth about working in law?

That you can't have a social life. Yes, it won't be like university, but that's not a bad thing. An apprenticeship is what you make it, and so is your social life. There are frequent events to connect with other apprentices and socialise with others. In the year I have been here, I've attended a department away day in York, a trip to Northumberland, a summer party and mini golf. And that's just work-led social events. If having a social life is a priority, it is completely possible to have one when finding a healthy balance.

What advice do you have for someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship?

Be yourself. It's a cliché, but true. When going through the application process, this is the best way to differentiate yourself. Describe experiences you've had that relate to commercial law, or don't - any experience is experience, so add what you've personally learned. This is also the case when speaking to other candidates, as if you're selected, you want to start a career in law, and be true to yourself.

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