Legal firm signs up for solicitor apprenticeships

Hannah Mitchell and Carly Robertson. Picture: TC Smith

The company is also delighted to announce their involvement in the new Solicitor Apprentice scheme in conjunction with Northumbria University.

Carly Robertson, who joined the firm in February 2017 after leaving Eyemouth High School, will start her six-year apprenticeship for the LLP next week.

Partner, Frances Cowan said: “TC Smith is committed to developing local talent and the new apprenticeship scheme allows Carly to work towards qualification as a solicitor while gaining workplace experience in Berwick.”

Hannah Mitchell, currently a para legal with TC Smith, will also be starting her solicitor’s training contract with the firm in January and will act as Carly’s mentor.

Senior Partner, Mark Butson added: “The conversion to LLP status will not affect the delivery or quality of service we offer, nor does it fundamentally change the way in which TC Smith will operate and work with its clients.

“We are all based locally and many of us live in the town itself and this helps us to understand the nature and concerns that we are asked to assist with.

“We are delighted to be able to continue this tradition and look forward to working with Carly and Hannah for many years ahead.”

TC Smith Solicitors LLP commenced trading on October 1, taking over from the former partnership.

The family department run by Sara Stockdale is also celebrating the award of a Legal Services Contract to provide legal aid assistance in relation to matrimonial, family law and children.

TC Smith was founded in April 1887 by Thomas Cleghorn Smith at the firm’s current address of 9 Church Street. His sons, Edmund and Ivor joined the Partnership in 1926 and around 1929. All three Smiths and later Partners John Reay and John Marshall have been Sheriffs.