Retaining and developing young professionals is a core part of our long-term vision and we take pride in providing a workplace where early-career solicitors can truly thrive.
Our commitment to supporting trainees through hands-on experience, strong mentorship and a culture that prioritises wellbeing is reflected in the fact that so many choose to remain with us after qualification. This month, we’re proud to celebrate two of our newly qualified solicitors, Lucy Taylor and Farheen Mahmood, who are continuing their journey with us at rradar.
We spoke to them about their experiences as trainees and what they’re looking forward to as they step into their new roles.
Lucy Taylor – Associate Solicitor, Insured Litigation (Delegated Authority), Hull
Why did you choose to stay at rradar after qualification?
“I enjoy the culture here at rradar. Everyone I have worked with has been so supportive and friendly. It feels different from a traditional law firm; they genuinely make the effort to ensure employees look after themselves. I’ve also built real friendships here. On top of that, there’s such a variety of interesting and challenging cases you can get involved in, which you wouldn’t always get elsewhere.”
What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
“The increased responsibility. I’m excited to start managing my own cases. As time goes on, I know I’ll become more confident in handling them independently and continue to grow into the best solicitor I can be.”
What do you think will be your biggest challenge?
“Managing the workload. The Commercial Disputes team is really busy, with lots of active cases. That said, I know I’ve got the support of my team behind me; it makes a huge difference knowing that you’re not alone.”
What’s been your biggest lesson as a trainee?
“Take every opportunity you can. At rradar, you get to work directly with incredibly experienced fee earners, and learning from them, by asking questions and getting involved, has been absolutely invaluable.”
Any advice for future solicitors?
“Believe in yourself, stick with it and never give up. You will get there. There were times during university and the LPC when I doubted myself, but I kept going. And now I’m here.”
Farheen Mahmood – Associate Solicitor, Insured Employment, Leeds
Why did you decide to remain at rradar after qualification?
“My training contract here gave me amazing experiences. rradar handles high-quality, complex cases, and I knew that the exposure I’d continue to get as a newly qualified solicitor would be instrumental in my development. The culture is also incredibly supportive, and the work-life balance is excellent.”
What are you looking forward to most?
“I’m excited to build on my knowledge of Employment Law by managing my own caseload. I’m also really happy to have joined the Leeds Employment team; they’re a fantastic group of solicitors and mentors, and I know I’ll learn so much from them.”
What do you think will be your biggest challenge?
“Managing the increased responsibility that comes with qualification. But I know the team is behind me, and I’ll have the support I need to take that step.”
What’s the biggest lesson you learned during your training?
“Time management and prioritisation. Trainees often have multiple tasks with overlapping deadlines, so learning how to juggle and stay organised is crucial. It’s a skill that I’ll carry forward as I take on more responsibility. Learning to manage time and prioritise effectively has been one of the most valuable skill I’ve developed as a trainee solicitor.”