Career Perspective: Nadia, Trainee Solicitor at HM Revenue & Customs – A Case Study

I am currently a trainee solicitor in my second seat, working with the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) Legal Group’s VAT Litigation team. My responsibilities involve conducting litigation and analyzing the VAT treatment of various supplies, such as food, beauty treatments, books, and marketing agreements from prominent brands. A significant part of our team’s focus is also on complex non-compliance fraud cases and diverse VAT avoidance schemes. Ever pondered whether a Jaffa Cake is a biscuit or a cake? That’s the kind of engaging work you can expect while at HMRC’s Legal Group.

When I applied for a training contract at HMRC, I didn’t fully grasp what it would mean to be a government lawyer. As legal professionals for HMRC, we safeguard billions of pounds that ultimately support public services like healthcare, policing, and various taxpayer-funded areas. It’s a surreal experience to realize that your contributions are genuinely impactful.

During my first seat in the Business and Property Taxes Litigation team, and now in my second seat, I was entrusted with considerable responsibilities right from the start. I am handling my own cases, managing clients who are experts in tax issues, and collaborating with some of the country’s top counsel. As a trainee, you’ll have the chance to engage in various facets of litigation—be it drafting statements of case, assembling bundles, attending hearings, or even participating in some advocacy—ensuring that you’ll never feel bored. While some litigation teams operate at a faster pace than others, that variety is part of the appeal; you can guide your training in the direction you desire.

My experience as a trainee has been immensely rewarding, allowing me to participate in work that I never expected to access at this stage. Surprisingly, a standout moment from my first seat occurred when my counsel fell ill unexpectedly on the morning of a crucial hearing I had been preparing for over several months. After countless calls with various Chambers, the tribunal, clients, and understandably frustrated opposing counsel, we successfully adjourned the hearing. The sense of achievement I felt was indescribable.

I would strongly recommend a career at HMRC to anyone interested in public service and seeking challenging, intriguing, and significant work.