Lily Chakrabarti

What was it that attracted you to Capsticks before you joined?

I studied medical law as an elective at university and was immediately drawn to the healthcare sector. Capsticks stood out to me as a leading law firm in this area working with high-profile clients and being involved with prominent cases.

What has your training been like?

I am currently in my first seat in real estate where I am involved in a national project involving the regularisation of around 1,200 tenants across our biggest client’s estate. I also assist solicitors on the team with their work which has helped me to gain experience in a wide variety of work.

I catch up with my direct supervisor almost every other week to discuss how the seat is going and I am supervised daily by the solicitors in the team who are always happy to answer any questions I have. 

There has been a real emphasis on making sure I understand the principles behind the work I am carrying out and this has really helped me to learn more about this area of the law.

What does the typical day of trainee look like?

A typical day usually involves drafting leases, negotiating terms with the other side’s solicitors and issuing engrossments once leases are agreed and the plans have been checked. Our team has a weekly meeting with the client where we each discuss our cases and how they are progressing. I have also been involved in large conference calls with all relevant parties where we try to negotiate terms. 

I enjoy the wide variety of work I have been exposed to and the amount of responsibility I have been given. I have my own case-load which I progress with supervision and I am the main point of contact for clients on these matters. On a good day I get to actually complete the lease and this is a great sense of achievement to see a lease through from start to finish and to know you are really contributing towards the work you are doing.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy the wide variety of work I have been exposed to and the amount of responsibility I have been given. I have my own case-load which I progress with supervision and I am the main point of contact for clients on these matters. On a good day I get to actually complete the lease and this is a great sense of achievement to see a lease through from start to finish and to know you are really contributing towards the work you are doing.

What advice would you give to future trainees?

I joined Capsticks as a paralegal before obtaining my training contract and I would highly recommend this to anyone who is thinking of joining Capsticks. I was sent on secondment for nine months to fill in as Legal Services Manager with one of our NHS trusts and this was an invaluable experience.