On occasion, there is an opportunity to assist in on-board ship inspections, at local or distant ports. Trainees are encouraged to accompany lawyers to court for hearings, motions, trials and appeals. They are also invited to attend arbitration proceedings and mediations. Trainees are expected to assist the trial attorney wherever possible. We also arrange, when possible, for trainees to attend client meetings and negotiations with opposing lawyers and to sit in on strategy discussions.
Emphasis is placed on speaking and writing proper English.
Consequently, trainees are normally required to draft letters, memos, legal pleadings, opinions, and reports. Informal lectures are given from time to time by the legal staff on various subjects including evidence, procedure, jurisdiction and substantive laws. Trainees are also encouraged to learn about law firm management by participating in the general activities of the firm, including assistance to the managing attorney, library, accounting and filing departments. All trainees are provided with a computer, including access to the internet and e-mail. Training is also provided in Windows MS Word and other computer programs.