The Legus European Internship: Bethany Buchanan
In October 2023 we announced the launch of a new Legus European Internship, allowing a number of Russell-Cooke associates to spend a week in a European member firm, and for us to host their solicitors in turn. In the first of our blog series on the subject, we asked Bethany Buchanan of Blackadders in Scotland about her time interning with Russell-Cooke and what she's learnt from taking part in the programme.
Who are you and what is your role at Blackadders?
I'm Beth Buchanan, Senior Solicitor in the Corporate and Commercial team in the Dundee office of Blackadders. I provide M&A, investment round, commercial contract, IP and data privacy advice.
How did you become an intern at Russell-Cooke?
The opportunity to take part in the internship was advertised to all solicitors at Blackadders with 2-5 years PQE to apply internally. I have been qualified for 2.5 years and so fitted the bill, and having attended online Legus events and referred clients to Legus Member firms I jumped at the chance to apply!
What have you done during your week here?
I spent five days across the Bedford Row and Putney offices in different teams including real estate, charities, family, corporate & commercial and private client.
What would you say are the benefits of this programme? What have your learned?
The exchange programme provided an excellent opportunity to expand my professional network. By spending time at Russell-Cooke I’ve connected with colleagues, exchanged ideas, and built relationships which will be valuable for future collaborations, referrals, and knowledge-sharing. During my week in London l engaged in discussions, attended meetings, and worked on cases. The opportunity allowed me to compare legal practices between Scotland and England. It was great to understand some of the streamlined processes in place at Russell-Cooke which I have reported back on in terms of team strategy approaches, billing & support.
By spending time at Russell-Cooke I’ve connected with colleagues, exchanged ideas, and built relationships which will be valuable for future collaborations, referrals, and knowledge sharing."
Who inspires you?
It would have to be my Mum – she is confident, hard-working and always puts others before herself.
What is the last book you read?
We have a book club in the office and recently read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
What would your dream weekend look like?
I’ve recently come back from my hen weekend in Ibiza which was absolutely amazing and I’d love to re-live it so let’s go for that – cocktails, sunsets, boat trips and dancing in Ibiza!
If you could have dinner with a famous person/character from film, book or TV, who would you choose?
I’m a big Formula 1 fan so it would have to be Lewis Hamilton.
Legus International is a legal network with over 80 law firm members across the globe. In conjunction with Legus, Russell-Cooke announced the launch of a new Legus European Internship in October 2023, which has so far seen us host three international interns and send two associates to fellow member firms.