Emilie Hijos, our YPLG President, recently took advantage of our exchange programme and  joined our UK member, Pannone Corporate, in Manchester on a six week placement. On her return to Lamy Lexel in Lyon we asked her to tell us about the experience.

“From an educational point of view, it was extremely interesting. I got to dive into the English legal system and really understand some of its finer details and how it differs from French Law. I learned a lot during my time there, and I feel I am much more equipped to guide clients who need advice involving English legal matters. I also made real progress with my legal English, which is going to be useful in my work.

“On the cultural side, I had the chance to explore England and the UK. I absolutely loved it. It made the experience very enjoyable!

“And from a personal perspective, it was amazing to finally meet in person the people I often work with in Pannone. It helped strengthen our working relationships and also led to some new friendships.

“All in all, it was a fantastic experience that I’ll always remember!”

During her placement Emilie spent time with the Corporate, Dispute Resolution and Commercial departments, had the opportunity to attend a mediation and also spent three days shadowing a judge.

Our PLG subsidised exchange programme is open to all of our young (under 35) lawyers – any member firm is free to welcome our young lawyers for between two and eight weeks.

Many thanks to Pannone Corporate for the welcome Emilie received, along with the unforgettable professional and social experience.

Paul Jonson, senior partner of Pannone Corporate, said “ PLG is very important to Pannone. We have built up strong relationships with the member firms over a number of years and getting to know our colleagues in our associated firms is hugely important. We were very pleased to offer Emilie some time in our firm and we all enjoyed having her with us. We have got to know Emilie and Lamy Lexel even better as a result.”

Aurélie Dantzikian Frachon, Partner of Lamy Lexel, added “It is our third Exchange Programme with Pannone. It has has been immensely enriching — both for Emilie’s professional growth and for strengthening our relationship with Pannone. It also deepened our understanding of the British legal system, to the direct benefit of our clients.”