What’s on my desk right now as a trainee in trusts and estate disputes

Some people love post-it notes; others swear by digital notes. I’m in the notebook camp. For me, having one place to capture my thoughts, tasks and deadlines makes my day feel far more manageable.

Today’s to-do list included drafting a couple of letters, preparing for a conference with counsel, and writing this blog. Whilst my handwriting may be unintelligible to anyone else, it makes perfect sense to me.

Even with access to 'Practical Law' – a solicitor’s best friend – it’s refreshing to consult a physical book every now and then.

Two textbooks currently hold pride of place:

(a) Assessment of Mental Capacity
In TED, many matters involve individuals who have lost, or may be losing, mental capacity. This book guides professionals through the legal framework for assessing capacity and includes extremely helpful precedents. I recently used it when drafting an instruction letter to an expert for a capacity assessment.

(b) Tristram and Coote’s Probate Practice
A staple in probate work. We turn to the contentious business section, which is packed with guidance on claims and precedents. I’ve used it to research how to compel individuals to deposit testamentary documents where they have refused to do so.

At Russell-Cooke, you’re provided with a laptop so you can easily work from the office or home. In the office, I work with two additional screens (life-changing!). It means I can draft a letter on one screen, review documents on the second, and monitor emails on the third.

My standing desk sits on top, ready for when my energy levels dip and I need to switch things up.

Documents come in all forms – letters, evidence, statements. Some clients still prefer to bring in hard copies, which appear as neat bundles on my desk. Other times, I’ll print documents out so I can mark them up by hand. Every now and then, letters arrive the traditional way: through the post, complete with envelope and stamp. No matter how digital our systems become, paperwork will always linger.

Gone are the days of juggling a handset while trying to scribble an attendance note. My laptop-connected headphones are a lifesaver. Hands-free calls mean I can type notes as I go.

Equally, they’re useful when I need to focus. Our floor is open-plan, so if I need to minimise distractions, I’ll pop something on in the background and get in the zone.

Not a permanent fixture on my desk – but here today! I’m part of the fundraising and outreach committee, and every year we organise a gift appeal for Kingston Hospital. This afternoon I wrapped a box in Christmassy paper for the appeal – a wholesome and welcome break from legal drafting.

AKA my non-negotiables that keep the day running smoothly:

• Water
• Hand cream
• Highlighters