A seat in the Property Litigation team

The Property Litigation Team

Ashfords’ Property Litigation team operates out of the firm’s Plymouth, Exeter and Bristol offices.

The Work

The work undertaken by the team is nationwide and spans across various specialist areas.  As a trainee, I have been well supported by the team to get stuck into high quality work from the outset, including in matters relating to:

1. Boundary disputes;
2. Disrepair and possession claims;
3. Claims for nuisance and trespass;
4. Preparation and service of notices on tenants; and
5. Enforcement of judgments over property.

The varied workload has presented me with excellent learning opportunities and in particular, the chance to develop my technical expertise.

I have regularly been involved in the following tasks since joining the Property Litigation department, amongst others:

1. Corresponding with clients, counsel, experts, the court and third parties;
2. Undertaking legal research for the team;
3. Drafting advice to clients;
4. Complying with relevant pre-action protocols;
5. Drafting pleadings and notices;
6. Instructing counsel to attend hearings; and
7. Producing bundles.

Early into my seat, I was also given the opportunity to attend a High Court trial and mediation in person which was invaluable experience.

The Clients

Ashfords’ Property Litigation has varied clients ranging from private individuals to large businesses and local authorities.  These can be both local and further afield.  Since joining the department, I have been encouraged to engage with clients on a day to day basis. This has included being the first point of contact for new enquiries,  liaising directly with clients in ongoing matters and attending client meetings both in person and virtually.

The Firm

My time in the Property Litigation department has provided me with hands on experience, early responsibility and challenging work from the outset, which has been key to my development as a trainee solicitor.   This, along with the support received from colleagues, has been consistent across all of the seats I have undertaken since joining Ashfords as a trainee solicitor.

For more information on trainee life at Ashfords, please visit our Trainee Blog.