Graduate Opportunities at CMS Cameron McKenna

Career History

Caroline Newberry joined CMS Cameron McKenna in September 2006. Originally a Geography student at Leeds University, Caroline converted over to Law, studying for her GDL and LPC at College of Law, Guildford. Now entering her third seat Caroline shares her thoughts about CMS Cameron McKenna and the culture there.

Why CMS Cameron McKenna?

“In the City where everyone is vying for the same big deals, it’s hard on first glance to distinguish one law firm from the next.  Top quality work, headline deals, talented co-workers and blue chip clients are not only expected now, but a given in a top 20 law firm.  CMS Cameron McKenna stands out because they put their clients first, and are totally focused on understanding their client’s business, commercial and legal needs, and wrapping the advice up in one package.” 

Responsibility

“I didn’t entirely know what to expect, given that this is my first “proper” job.  I hoped that I would be challenged, well trained, given responsibility, involved in projects and that I would make some friends.  All my aspirations on those levels have been amply met and more.  Since joining, I have come to expect to be given real work (not just photocopying), to have my opinion greatly valued and taken on board (even though I am a junior solicitor) and to aim high in line with the rest of the firm. I have handled my own files individually and worked as an integral part of a large team; I have seen projects when they come into the firm, right through to their completion at the end.”

Development

“I feel the training I am receiving at CMS Cameron McKenna is top quality because I am learning from world-class lawyers who encourage me to always improve on my best, whilst maintaining the supportive and rewarding working environment, which makes CMS Cameron McKenna what it is. I know if I want to develop my skills in a particular area to help improve the service I offer clients, the firm will back me 100%. Trainees are recognised as the firm’s future and are invested in heavily by way of acknowledging that fact.”

Final Thoughts

“Hopefully my training contract will be the gateway to a permanent career with CMS Cameron McKenna  at the end of my training in September 2008. In the short term, it has provided me with excellent academic and on-the-job training, a very broad range of experiences as well as giving me the opportunity to get stuck in to ‘real lawyer’s work’.”