October 18, 2022
Alexandra Prato is a third-seat trainee at RPC and she’s given us her insight into what it’s like to work at the firm, from why she chose RPC to the different tasks she’s gotten involved with.

What Degree Did You Study and Where?

I studied Law at the University of Warwick.

Why Choose a Career in Law?

Increased specialisation in the legal sector has generated a growing number of diverse practice areas that cater to every interest. In addition to sectoral growth, nowadays firms and organisations are expanding across international borders more than ever before. There is endless opportunity for collaboration with foreign counsel and working with international clients. 

Moreover, the constantly evolving legal system, growing volume of case law and advances in technology bring new challenges and rewards. We are constantly dealing with interesting issues, solving complex legal problems and reasoning with logic and clarity. Every day is unique.

What Attracted You to RPC?

One major aspect that attracted me to RPC was its friendly and collaborative culture. The firm is full of people who genuinely look out for each other, and there is a huge emphasis on wellbeing and mental health. 

I was also keen to gain experience in both insurance and dispute resolution work, with my seats so far having encompassed commercial litigation, professional liability and non-contentious insurance matters.

Tell Us What Your Training Contract Involves…

The tasks I’ve been involved in since starting my training contract have varied considerably. Aside from the usual bundling, costs statements and document reviews, I have also drafted client updates and correspondence to the other side, researched interesting legal issues and prepared witness statements.

For some of the matters in which I have been more heavily involved, I have attended hearings alongside counsel at the Commercial Court. 

There are Lots of Stereotypes About Working in Law; What’s the Reality?

I think that the most common misconception about working on legal matters is that litigation is centred around “winning” at court or litigating a legal issue into the ground. 

Whilst perseverance, effective advocacy and the ability to analyse complex legal problems are crucial skills for a lawyer, I’ve learned that it is also important to view a dispute in the context of a client’s longer-term goals, as well as any wider commercial and reputational implications. 

Accordingly, clients rely on legal professionals to navigate any risk and uncertainty stemming from litigation, and to think critically and creatively when doing so. A broader outlook in this regard helps to ensure the best possible results are delivered to clients.

Why Should Future Trainees Consider RPC?

Trainees are offered a broad range of insurance and litigation experience against the backdrop of a supportive and collaborative environment.  Trainees are given a good level of responsibility in each seat, whilst being encouraged to voice their opinions and ask questions about different tasks. 

Last year, RPC launched its “SparkOurFuture” project, which has paved the way for flexible ways of working. The ability to work partly from the office and partly from home allows trainees to be more productive whilst still maintaining a good level of contact with colleagues at the office.

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