The Gazette 1996

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 1996

Capital Markets. Since joining the legal services division there in 1995, Philippa has learned a lot about derivatives and dealing and about arcane legislative provisions such as the Capital Adequacy Directive and the Netting of Financial Contracts Act. She has also found very practical use for her study of the capacity of corporate bodies and general commercial and insolvency law. Philippa advised job-seekers to be pro-active about sending out CVs. She also remarked that solicitors have very valuable skills but those targeting a non-practice market "must be prepared to convince pros- pective employers of their usefulness". The last of the six speakers was Graham Hanlon, partner in Doyle Hanlon Solicitors. Graham gave a most interesting and engaging account of his own career to date from apprenticeship with Eugene F. Collins to setting up and running his practice with an old college friend. He spoke of the dangers and the difficulties associated with the venture as well as the rewards and satisfaction of being self-employed. Graham's conclusion was that setting up in practice is not for everyone and indeed, that there are other and easier ways of acquiring a practice, including inheriting (or marrying!) one. However, he himself appears to have his footfirmly on the ladder of success and to have no regrets.

L-r: Maria Costello, Irish Shell Limited; David O'Donnell, Management International (Dublin) Limited and Philipa Howley, AIB Capital Markets.

Chairman, Philip Joyce, to adjourn to the Members' Bar for a drinks reception hosted by the Committee. There were no refusals and the lively exchange of ideas and opinions continued as long as the not inconsiderable hospitality flowed. Sincere thanks are due to all the contributors who gave their time and the benefit of their experience so generously and so readily. Thanks also to Joan Doran, Secretary of the Younger Members' Committee, for her valued assistance in organising the event.

Of thefive employed solicitors who spoke, three had been recruited through the Law Society Employment Register and one by sending out speculative CVs. The message that came across from the contributors was that there is a wide variety of opportunities available and getting a job as an assistant solicitor is not necessarily the best or the only option. The talks were very enthusiastically received by the large audience who were both cheered and inspired by what they heard. The interactive part of the evening followed with an invitation to all from Younger Members' Committee

Geraldine Hynes Careers Adviser

LAW SOCIETY ANNUAL CONFERENCE

31 c

o DATE FOR

BARCELONA 3-6 April, 1997

YOUR DIARY

241