Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP brochure 2020/21

MEET OUR PEOPLE

Bessie

Milosz

For Bessie, it is all about culture. Originally from Canada, Bessie began her journey into Law studying business, but then decided to propel her studies by moving to the UK, where she completed an LLB Accelerated Law degree at the University of Exeter. During this time she took part in our vacation scheme; “I found it really interesting because it helped me explore the different avenues of commercial law, so it was easier for me to suggest which seats I would like to complete when I was offered my training contract.” It was important for Bessie that wherever she started her career she felt comfortable; “When you go into law, you know the work is going to be hard, but very rewarding. Sometimes you do work late, and you want to be in an environment where you will enjoy spending time with the people you are working with.” When Bessie was offered a training contract, it was her experience of the firm’s culture that made her decision a clear choice; “I felt really relaxed and valued in my contributions. It was a really nice atmosphere and I could just see myself working there.” Now nearing the end of her training contract, Bessie admits she has been pleasantly surprised along the way; “I was not expecting to be trusted as much as I was when I first started. From day one I was given client-facing tasks. I have worked on really big, high-profile matters that I have seen in the Financial Times and other news. It is a great feeling.”

Milosz is making a real difference with pro bono. Since starting his training contract at Weil, Milosz has been making waves with his pro bono efforts; “During my masters I volunteered in Greece to work in the field as an Asylum Lawyer. One of the people I worked with later set up her own charitable organisation, so I put her in touch with Weil. The firm has now funded the building of their office in Lesbos, and we are exploring how else we can work together; it is an amazing outcome.” Milosz is also working on a high-profile pro bono matter. The Dispute Resolution team are defending an investigative journalist against High Court defamation proceedings commenced by a central Asian Businessman, in connection with a series of articles on corruption and money laundering. Milosz said, “This is a huge case where we have the opportunity to fight for journalistic freedoms globally and make a real difference.” Milosz has played a big part in the case, taking ownership over many key tasks; “Day-to-day, I am instructing our barrister team, going to client meetings and driving the case forward – I have real responsibility. It is a great learning experience and a really valuable cause to be working on.” The trial is due to commence after Milosz has moved on to his next seat, although he is excited to attend and see the case to its conclusion.

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