Chloe Baumhauer - Trainee Solicitor (September 2024 - September 2026)

Chloe started her training contract with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors in September 2024 and is based at our Longfield office.

Chloe discusses why she chose to train with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors.

Where and what did you study at University before you were accepted for a Training Contract with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors?

I studied Law at Coventry University then studied the LPC/LLM (Masters) at The University of Law.

What work had you done before you started your training, including work placements and voluntary work? Did your work experience prove useful?

Before training at Longfield I worked in New Enquiries in Gravesend/Gillingham dealing with all the new enquiries coming through to the firm and allocating the work to the correct fee earners. I got to see all different cases we deal with and could ask the fee earner questions as to how we would help the client and gained some legal knowledge through this.

How did you get a place at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors and what did you do before?

My previous job was in a call centre for a housing association, receiving calls and making calls to the vulnerable and elderly to assist them with emergency services/medication reminders etc. I learnt to keep calm under pressure and gain confidence speaking via telephone for difficult situations.

How long have you been a trainee and what seats have you held?

I have been training for just over 2 months and my first 18 months are in Private Client and Conveyancing. My last 6 months will be in a contentious seat in Gillingham.

What does your typical day as a trainee solicitor look like?

My typical day as a trainee is overseeing Barbara Stewart on Probate, Will, LPA and Conveyancing files. Sitting in on appointments with clients. Learning the process of administering probate estates, exchanging and completing contracts on sales/purchases. I also assist Georgina on Court of Protection deputyship cases which broadens my legal knowledge and feels rewarding.

What training and support did you receive whilst being a trainee solicitor?

I am fortunate enough to be sitting in the same room as Barbara who is very experienced, which allows me to listen in on client calls and all her dictations, giving me a better understanding on how to deal with all different scenarios and being in a comfortable environment to ask questions.

What are the best bits about being a trainee at Martin Tolhurst Solicitors?

I am grateful to be in a firm that offers a great training programme and who values you as a member of staff. I am surrounded by people who you can approach for help at any time and in a warm friendly environment which means I enjoy coming to work every day and learning new things, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else!