Robert Graham
Team Leader - Project Support Unit
Email: robert.graham@burges-salmon.com
I joined Burges Salmon in September 2008 after completing my LPC at BPP Law School in London. Prior to that, I graduated in June 2007 from The University of Southampton with an LLB Law degree.
I was recruited into The Project Support Unit (PSU) following the submission of an initial application form, invitation to a recruitment selection day and a final interview. My application was prompted after meeting a number of the PSU team at BPP's annual recruitment event. The position was sold to me as a perfect opportunity to obtain some quality legal experience in a law firm that commands a significant amount of respect across the profession. Much emphasis was placed on Burges Salmon being a real alternative to working in London.
I can say that the firm has delivered on its promises. For me, moving from London to Bristol was a smooth transition. The welcoming nature of my colleagues and Bristol's vibrant social scene enabled me to make many friends and settle quickly.
During my time with Burges Salmon I have had a very large and varied workload. Based principally in the Commercial Disputes and Construction practice areas, I have assisted some of our senior lawyers and partners, carrying out work for some of the firm's most respected and valuable clients. I have been expected to work hard, and at times long hours, but have been rewarded with some significant client contact and quality work on which to draw experience. Of course the role has its administrative side, but it's often the more mundane tasks that, if done well, can lead to work that carries a greater amount of responsibility and reward.
There are often good opportunities to progress within the unit, to widen your skills in different areas and follow specific legal interests. In July 2010, I was promoted to the position of Project Support Unit Team Leader following an internal interview process. My new role involves responsibilities in addition to those of a PSU paralegal. I am responsible for the distribution, delegation and supervision of work within my team and to ensure that we maintain a high quality of work for both our internal and external clients.
I will be working closely alongside the Head of the PSU to ensure the continued success of the unit. I will be contributing significantly to the training and development of new team members, building on relationships with different departments and internal marketing initiatives designed to increase workflow through the team and raise the profile of the unit across the firm.
In this increasingly difficult legal market, where training contracts are hard to come by, the role of a paralegal is becoming increasingly important. It is a stepping stone to bridge the gap between Law School and practice and also a good way to gain valuable legal work experience.
A role as part of the PSU team at Burges Salmon is a great place to start.