Chloe Docherty, a first year LLB student, has recently joined the Law Clinic in our newest intake 2019/2020 and has written the following article about her experience so far:

“After a written online application and an interview, I was delighted and honoured to find out that I had become an advisor at the Law Clinic of Strathclyde. Shortly after, I participated in the training. This was extremely helpful and covered a large range of topics. For example, we received training on how to approach meeting your first client and things you can make them do to feel at ease, such as body language. We also learned about Data Protection and client confidentiality.

“When the opportunity arose to get my first case I jumped at it. The Law Clinic has an incredible atmosphere. When first entering I felt anxious.  However, everyone in the Law Clinic is there to help other people and are very kind. Immediately after introducing myself to everyone I knew that I could approach anyone at the Law Clinic for advice. The initial interview was the first part of my new case. It entailed my co-advisors and I listening to the client explain their case. I learned that one of the most important factors in an interview is to make the client feel as comfortable as possible. As it is already a difficult time for them, it is vital that they feel that you are engaging with them and they can trust you with their issue.

“I faced some challenges as well as learning a lot as my first case moved forward. As the case was on an employment issue, I became more familiar with employment law and the tribunal process. However, one of the challenges I faced was being honest with the client on the probability of their case being successful and attempting to handle this in the most sensitive way possible. I found this difficult but the training provided helped me in understanding that different approaches may suit different people. The Law Clinic has helped me not only learn about different subject matter and knowledge, but it has taught me about myself, such as time management skills, how to approach sensitive situations and how to work as part of a team. I look forward to taking on more cases within the Law Clinic.

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