After successfully completing the application process in February last year, Oliver Scragg joined Taylor Wessing as a solicitor apprentice in September 2024. Oliver is based in Liverpool and works in the real estate team. Below, he examines his experience at the firm so far.
When I discovered the existence of solicitor apprenticeships, it sounded too good to be true; procuring a degree completely debt free, earning a good salary, and gaining six years of experience alongside some of the best lawyers in their respective fields sounded like a dream. Not to mention the built-in training contract, lining the pathway to qualify as a lawyer at just 24 years old!
What attracted me to Taylor Wessing was its people-focussed culture and opportunities to get involved with social events, such as the Vienna marathon I’ll be running with colleagues in April! The firm’s focus on real estate, energy and infrastructure as well as life sciences and healthcare also motivated me to apply. The chance of being able to work with some of the largest international businesses in these sectors at such an early stage in my career is invaluable. Taylor Wessing enables me to achieve this right here in Liverpool – a city that offers the perfect combination of city life and student living. Its buzzing nightlife and affordability, teamed with investment into life sciences and technology makes Liverpool the perfect place for me to kick-start my career.
Since I joined, I have already worked on a variety of real estate matters, from high-value transactions including disposals, acquisitions, and leases to property-focused commercial disputes and planning issues. My role has afforded me significant client interaction and I have developed my drafting skills through the preparation of ancillary lease documents.
My apprenticeship also provides me with far more than academic progress and professional development. I have been lucky enough to attend incredible events such as the Liverpool Law Society Annual Dinner, which hosted Lady Hale. I have also had the opportunity to be involved in the Pro Bono Clinic where I was able to take the lead on a matter advising a client on a breach of contract.
At such an early stage in my career it is difficult to pin down my long-term aspirations. I know my apprenticeship will set me up for a successful legal career because I will get to experience 8 different seats over its 6-year duration, ensuring a wide range of knowledge and experience in all Taylor Wessing’s key sectors.
About Taylor Wessing
Taylor Wessing is a global law firm that serves the world’s most innovative people and businesses.
We recognise that solicitor apprenticeships offer more than just the development of legal expertise; they cultivate professionalism, adaptability and resilience – invaluable attributes in today’s ever-changing legal landscape. We proudly champion solicitor apprenticeships as an alternative route into law. They help break down traditional barriers in accessing legal careers, widening representation within our industry.
To find out more about our apprenticeships watch out for our Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn posts during National Apprenticeship Week.
Further details about our programme can be found on our website, here: https://www.taylorwessing.com/en/careers/united-kingdom/students-and-graduates-uk/solicitor-apprenticeship-programme
Taylor Wessing is currently accepting applications for its Liverpool Work Shadowing programme. The scheme will take place from Monday 7 to Friday 11 July and aims to provide candidates with an introduction to Taylor Wessing, the legal industry and the services that support the firm. The application deadline is 5:30pm on Friday, 28 March.
Find out more and apply via Taylor Wessing’s career opportunities’ page, here: https://career55.sapsf.eu/sfcareer/jobreqcareerpvt?jobId=1438&company=taylorwe01&st=8C46F3EA6205E2CAF29D1C0808E8D0E14D3B15B1