Leeds-based top 200 corporate law firm, Shulmans LLP, has strengthened its international reach by introducing a new programme of professional learning opportunities.
Trainee lawyer Gillian McKechnie, has completed a secondment with New York-based Solomon Blum Heymann LLP, marking the first phase in a series of global work placements.
Shulmans, which operates from a single-site office in Leeds, serves clients on a regional, national and international basis, and regularly works alongside law firms around the world representing high level clients. The opportunity for junior lawyers to gain first-hand experience of international markets is rare among firms based solely in the UK. During the secondment, Gillian contributed to case work and attended networking events and professional seminars on diverse topics such as the future of FinTech, advances in unstructured data and adoption of AI, as well as the pace of regulatory change in the EU vs US.
Solomon Blum Heymann in New York and Shulmans in Leeds are associate firms within the Interlegal network, a growing network of independent law firms across the world. Both firms have formerly hosted the network’s annual conference, which is attended by legal professionals representing more than 40 countries. Its purpose is to strengthen collaboration between businesses.
Commenting on her experience, Gillian said: “The secondment with Solomon Blum Heymann LLP was immensely valuable as a learning opportunity, set within the heart of one of the world’s most exciting and dynamic cities. The team provided a fantastic opportunity to experience life as a New York lawyer and it was fascinating to understand some of the similarities and differences between UK and US law.”
Jim Wright, Head of International at Shulmans LLP said: “We are committed to nurturing great talent whether that colleague is a junior trainee or a senior partner. As a local employer, we are proud to provide our staff with a great place to work, which includes providing a platform for career development. We are delighted to be growing the number of international opportunities available to our colleagues.
“Our relationships with international law firms through the Interlegal network are second-to-none, and we would like to extend our thanks to Solomon Blum Heymann LLP for hosting Gillian during her secondment.”
