Interview with Petra Nadvinski
As Petra approaches the second year of her Training Contract, we caught up with her to find out how she's settled in to life at Wake Smith and what the stand out moments are from her learning experience so far...
Why did you apply for a Training Contract with Wake Smith?
At the time I applied I knew a current trainee here who never had anything but words of praise for the firm and the Training Contract itself so I made the decision to apply here as well. Once I had completed the interview, I absolutely loved the vibe of the place and the people so decided to accept the offer here.
What sets Wake Smith apart from other law firms in the area?
I think both internally and externally it’s the people skills that make Wake Smith different. Everyone is so approachable and easy to talk to and I think that comes across with clients and agents as well as they do tend to stay with Wake Smith for long periods of time, as well as recommend us to other prospective clients.
Which seat have you enjoyed the most and why?
I have enjoyed both of my seats in the commercial departments even though I would say the two are different in many ways. I was able to learn so much in what ends up feeling like a short period of time for each seat.
I would say what I appreciate the most is the fact that the solicitors working in these two teams know so much and are very good at explaining everything that might be new to you with patience, so you really do feel like you get the maximum out of them in the 6 months.
Top tips for settling into a new seat?
This may sound obvious, but I would say throw yourself into it and give everything you can a go. Six months sounds like a long time but it goes by in the blink of an eye so the only way to get everything out of each seat is to not waste a second and just speak up if there are specific things you want to get involved in or gain some experience doing. The teams are lovely so everyone will accommodate where they can - and even if it may not be possible at the time, it is always worth asking!
Click here to learn more about careers at Wake Smith, and our Training Contract Programme
Published 09/2026