Having just completed the first year of my traineeship, I hope to provide you with an insight into the sort of experience you could look forward to. My first year has been a year of two halves, having spent the first half in the office and the second half in lockdown working from home. Here's a round-up of just a few things you can expect from Morton Fraser.

Expect to be part of a team. No two seats are the same, and no two teams are the same, but what they all have in common is that you are welcomed as part of the team. In the office you sit amongst your colleagues, from newly qualified Solicitors to Partners, who will get you involved in transactions and many other aspects of the team's work to give you the best learning experience. Working from home, the contact with my team has continued and although team lunches are sadly no more for now, we have regular video calls and team catch-ups.

Expect to get involved. Your team will get you involved in a variety of work from the outset: drafting contracts, negotiating terms, attending court, emailing and phoning clients and other solicitors. This may sound daunting at first, but being hands-on is the best way to learn and it's exciting to be a part of both big and small transactions.

Expect a social life. As they say - it's not all work and no play! There are monthly staff drinks in both offices which are open to all colleagues, and these are a great opportunity to get to know other people across the firm in different departments. Expect a call at 4.55pm from fellow colleagues if you have even hinted that you aren’t able to make it: I guarantee you will be there come 5pm.

Expect to get involved with charity fundraising. There are multiple fundraising events held throughout the year to raise funds for our 'Charity of the Year' that you can participate in. Giving back is something that is really important to the ethos of Morton Fraser. Office bake sales - a good excuse to get away from your desk for a chat and a cake - what's not to love? In previous years we have also taken part in the Big Sleep Out, the Edinburgh Marathon Relay, the Kiltwalk and much more… More recently we have taken part in attending virtual concerts, and even virtual 'murder mystery' escape rooms.

Expect to organise events! It is the job of the first year trainees to organise and host the highly anticipated Morton Fraser Burns Supper. From catering to speakers, décor to entertainment, it's all in your hands, though you're not expected to play the bagpipes!

We can't know for sure what circumstances will be like when starting the traineeship in two years' time, but the past six months have shown that, despite changing circumstances, Morton Fraser is adaptable and will still continue to provide you with a diverse learning and training experience from some of the best in the business, and you'll enjoy yourself along the way!

To all those who apply - good luck!

For more information about our traineeships, visit our dedicated page.