LAW
Moving on up – Punch Robson Solicitors partner Elaine McLaine-Wood ( second left ) with some of those progressing within the firm ( from left ) Mia Coultas , Abigail McManus , George Robinson , Helen Daly , Andrew Nolan and Shannon Whyatt .
Punch Robson ’ s commitment to Teesside ’ s legal talent
Empowering the future
WORDS : JULIE BURNISTON PICTURES : CHRIS BOOTH
Through innovative training programmes and unwavering support , Punch Robson Solicitors is paving the way for a new generation of legal professionals on Teesside …
Partners at Punch Robson Solicitors take immense pride in their commitment to progression , evident in their efforts to nurture and support the next generation of legal talent in the Teesside region .
With a steadfast commitment to staff development , the proud Teesside firm has fostered a supportive environment where aspiring lawyers - irrespective of their background - are given the opportunity to thrive .
“ Historically , entering the legal profession was often seen as an option only for the affluent ,” admits partner Elaine McLaine-Wood , head of corporate & commercial .
“ However , Punch Robson is dedicated to challenging this perception . With a firm commitment to promoting accessibility and diversity within the legal field , we are breaking down barriers and making legal careers more accessible to everyone . In short , we are on a mission to find and nurture the right people to succeed us as partners so we can pass on our legacy .”
Elaine highlights the firm ’ s previous approach to supporting career progression , which involved offering training contracts to individuals aiming to qualify as solicitors . Typically , these contracts lasted two years , during which trainees completed four six-month seats . Upon successful completion , Punch Robson would offer them a position within the firm , even if vacancies were not immediately available .
However , significant reforms introduced by the Law Society in recent years have changed this landscape . The traditional
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