The Brief, Clyde & Co

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Degree

International Relations, University of St Andrews

Started at Clyde & Co

March 2005

Current role

Solicitor

Office

London

“It’s an exciting environment for those who are willing to put themselves forward and be counted.”

Andrew Krausz, Solicitor

Andrew Krausz

What made you decide to become a lawyer?

I was heavily involved with organising large events at university, which included negotiating contracts and terms and, on occasion, dealing with disputes with suppliers. A mixture of fascination with the mechanics of the law and frustration with my layman's knowledge led me to begin my legal studies, which in turn gave me the confidence in my own abilities to become a lawyer.

Have you been surprised by particular aspects of your career as a legal professional?

The levels of responsibility delegated in the early stages of my career and the reliance sometimes placed by clients on me as their lawyer, particularly when they are in litigation. Often the role of the lawyer extends beyond merely advising on pure law and requires advising with a commercial and/or practical focus.

Looking back to when you started - is there any advice you would give yourself now?

Even if you've decided to pursue a particular area of the law, there is no such thing as wasted knowledge. The law is pervasive and it is not uncommon to encounter situations requiring an appreciation of seemingly unconnected areas of law which you never thought you'd use - I sometimes wish I'd paid more attention in class!

Can you describe the culture at Clyde & Co?

There is a spirit of adventure among many of the personalities at Clyde & Co. This is not the stereotypical law firm; rather, it looks to go where many others haven't yet ventured.

It's not a firm for wallflowers, but it is an exciting environment for those who are willing to put themselves forward and be counted. Furthermore, it is a firm where there is a strong appreciation of the need for a healthy work/life balance.

Would you recommend Clyde & Co as a firm to begin a legal career with?

If you're the right type of person, then yes, absolutely. The firm strikes a refreshing balance on a number of levels including work/life balance, work type and value, and the level of responsibility entrusted to trainees and junior lawyers. There is also the possibility of relocating to one of the overseas offices as a trainee for six months.