International Mentoring Day 2025: Interview with Chira Santea, Trainee Solicitor

Firm News

17 Jan

What inspired you to pursue a career in law? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked your interest?

My initial spark came while studying Literature at UCL—I was captivated by how narrative and argument intersect, and how words can influence justice. That fascination led me to explore legal internships and eventually commit to the legal profession.

Can you take us through your journey to this point? What steps did you take to prepare for a career in law?

After completing a BA in Literature at UCL, I pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Law at BPP - to convert my academic background into a formal legal foundation. I then undertook the LPC + MSc in Law and Business Administration at The University of Law, where I focused on Commercial Dispute Resolution, Corporate Governance, and Intellectual Property. After completing my studies, I built practical experience through Paralegal roles. My first position was at a top employment and defamation firm - a fascinating experience which really developed my interest in dispute work. However, my goal was always to eventually work in a commercial area of law. That is when I moved to Costigan King (a full-service firm) as a Paralegal and was subsequently able to secure a Training Contract.

What skills or qualities do you think are most important for succeeding as a trainee solicitor?

Adaptability and commercial awareness top the list. From juggling various client matters to understanding a business’s strategic aims, being able to shift focus quickly is essential. Strong legal drafting and research skills provide a solid foundation, but excellent communication (both written and verbal) ties it all together.

How do you approach the learning process as a trainee? Do you have a particular strategy or mindset that helps you absorb and apply new knowledge?

I approach every task with curiosity, take detailed notes whenever I learn something new, and always try to find an example if I’m being asked to draft something I’ve never done before. I also find it invaluable to seek feedback; asking questions at an early stage helps to clarify any potential misunderstanding. I consider that each assignment—whether drafting a witness statement or reviewing a contract—is an opportunity to deepen my expertise and refine my skillset.

What excites you most about working in different practice areas during your rotations? Are there any departments/practice areas you’re especially eager to explore?

I’ve found litigation and construction particularly rewarding because they often call for creative legal strategies. It’s a dynamic area where you end up touching on various core principles—tort, contract, and insolvency considerations (for example) often all come into play. Building on that experience, I’m keen to explore non-contentious construction further, gaming/betting, energy and corporate/M&A work, as each offers its own unique blend of commercial considerations, challenges and opportunities.

What’s been the most challenging part of being a trainee so far, and how did you overcome it?

Time management is always a challenge as a trainee. Dealing with multiple tasks can be overwhelming. I’ve learned to overcome this by maintaining a prioritised task list, communicating regularly with Partners and clients about deadlines, and using case management systems effectively to stay organised. Over time, I’ve developed a better sense of how to allocate my efforts most efficiently.

Have there been any standout moments during your traineeship so far—an experience or milestone that reinforced your desire to become a solicitor?

I was fortunate enough to assist with a construction adjudication from its earliest stages—serving the Notice—right through to High Court enforcement of the Adjudicator’s decision. Having such a high level of involvement was invaluable, as it gave me a thorough understanding of how construction disputes are handled and what factors to consider when advising clients.

What has surprised you most about becoming a trainee solicitor? Is there anything you wish you’d known earlier?

I was (pleasantly) surprised by how quickly I was entrusted with a direct role in ongoing matters, and that I was encouraged to contribute when developing legal strategies with clients. While challenging, it has also been extremely rewarding. If I could go back, I would start building a professional network sooner—colleagues and industry contacts can be excellent sounding boards and open doors for new opportunities.

What is Julian like as a mentor? Is there a particular piece of advice from him that has stayed with you?

Working with Julian has been an invaluable experience. He is an excellent mentor, who seamlessly blends academic rigour with commercial insight. He is a fantastic teacher who will always take the time to explain a point of law which may be more complex or technical. He is the most experienced lawyer I have ever encountered, and I find his approach to any legal challenge both fascinating and innovative. I am truly grateful to be learning from one of the most accomplished legal minds in the field. One piece of advice from Julian that I will never forget is: “Always Champagne. Never Prosecco.”

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who’s just starting their journey towards becoming a trainee solicitor?

Be proactive and don’t be scared to ask questions. Law is complex, and each query you raise is a learning opportunity. Simultaneously, make sure to develop a sense of commercial awareness—understand the industries your clients operate in and always consider how legal strategies fit into the bigger business picture.