Meet Mike Ogutu and why he chose CDH

Meet Mike

My journey to becoming a trainee advocate has been a blend of dedication, strategic choices and a deep commitment to excellence. 

It all began when I pursued a Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Nairobi, which laid the groundwork for my legal career. After graduation, I took on a role at one of Nairobi’s top law firms. The experience I gained there was invaluable, allowing me to refine my skills and gain practical insights into the legal profession.

Following this, I joined the Kenya School of Law’s Advocates Training Program, an essential step for anyone wishing to practice law in Kenya. Completing the coursework was a significant milestone, leading me to undertake my pupillage at the firm – a statutory requirement before admission to the bar.

I chose CDH for my pupillage because of its prestigious reputation and its involvement in complex transactions. The firm’s size and its commitment to excellence presented a unique opportunity for me to engage with high-profile clients and tackle diverse legal challenges. I saw this as an ideal environment to deepen my legal knowledge and skills.

My decision to pursue pupillage at CDH reflects my ambition to excel in the legal field. The firm's renowned expertise and its dynamic work environment align with my professional goals. Through this experience, I am not only advancing my career but also positioning myself to make a meaningful impact in the legal arena.

A typical day as a trainee advocate for Mike 

My day as a trainee advocate is both dynamic and fulfilling, shaped by a blend of routine and varied challenges. I start my mornings early, around 5:30, to prepare for the day ahead and catch up on international news.

Afterwards, during my commute, I indulge in reading novels. It’s the perfect way to stimulate my brain before diving into work. Arriving at the office by 8:00, my first order of business is to review and respond to any emails. I then turn my attention to the latest news developments, scanning the papers to identify potential opportunities for our department and the firm.

Meetings are a central part of my day. I frequently meet with my partner and senior associates to discuss work allocation and project updates. Balancing these meetings with other tasks requires sharp time management skills and adaptability.

Lunch typically runs from 13:00 to 14:00, although it may be adjusted if a meeting runs over. After lunch, I discuss ongoing matters and emerging legal developments with my seniors. This interaction is invaluable, offering deep insights and fostering my professional growth.

Continuous learning is crucial in my role. I dedicate time each day to reading and updating my legal knowledge, complemented by the firm’s knowledge progression sessions. These sessions reinforce what I’ve learned and introduce new concepts and practices. Additionally, working in each department allows me to specialise and develop expertise in specific legal areas.

We asked Mike what it’s like to be a trainee advocate

Being a trainee advocate is both thrilling and demanding. This is because you experience the weight of knowing, while constantly realising how much more there is to learn. It’s a bit like being a newcomer in a vibrant city – each day brings new experiences and surprises that teach you something valuable.

Every day presents a dynamic array of tasks and responsibilities, and the pace can be mind-blowing. There’s a sense of awe in witnessing the rapid flow of work. Nevertheless, despite the initial feeling of being overwhelmed, the role is deeply fulfilling. The real reward comes from tackling challenging tasks and earning recognition for your efforts, which serves as a powerful affirmation of your growth and potential.

In this role, you’re always on a steep learning curve, but it’s this very challenge that makes the experience so enriching. It’s a journey of continuous learning and personal development, where every successful endeavour adds to your confidence and competence.

How did you choose your rotations?

I chose my rotations based on my personal interests and the type of lawyer I aspire to be. I focused on areas where I felt my strengths lay and where I saw myself thriving professionally. However, it's important to note that the final decision on where you end up is usually made by the partners. Balancing my preferences with the firm's needs ensures that I gain valuable experience while aligning with my career goals. 

What are your tips for new trainee advocates? 

• Embrace continuous learning: Stay updated with recent case law and legal trends. The field is ever evolving, so keeping your knowledge current is crucial.
• Be proactive and ask questions: Take initiative in seeking out tasks and opportunities. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or guidance when needed.
• Manage your time and stay organised: Develop strong time management skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently. Keep your files and documents well organised.
• Pay attention to detail and develop research skills: Accuracy is vital. Double-check your work and be adept at legal research to provide well-supported advice.
• Be resilient and adaptable: The legal profession can be demanding. Stay resilient in the face of challenges and be adaptable to changes in your workload or priorities.
• Seek feedback and act on it: Regularly ask for feedback from supervisors and peers and use it to improve your performance and skills.

What is your favourite part of being a trainee advocate? 

The incredible patience and support from my team. As I embark on this journey, I’m often reminded of how much I have to learn. My colleagues’ understanding and willingness to guide and teach me have made a significant impact. Their encouragement and dedication to helping me grow have been invaluable.

Being new to the field, I sometimes feel like a baby. Yet the genuine desire to nurture my development makes each day a rewarding experience. Their patience allows me to absorb and understand the complexities of the profession at my own pace, making the learning process both enjoyable and enriching.

It’s a privilege to start this journey with such a committed and nurturing team. 

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a trainee advocate? 

Striving for perfection while balancing the need for independence. I am committed to doing my best and prefer to tackle tasks with minimal guidance. However, this can be tricky because I can’t always anticipate my seniors’ exact expectations, and delivering work that meets their standards can be demanding.

Navigating this challenge involves a continuous learning process where I need to balance my desire for self-reliance with the reality of needing to seek feedback and clarification. It’s a delicate balance between demonstrating my capability and ensuring that my work aligns with the high standards set by my team. Despite this, I approach each task one step at a time, understanding that growth and improvement are an ongoing part of my journey. 

What was most surprising about the trainee advocate role? 

The level of responsibility and trust the firm placed in me from the very beginning took me aback. Despite being a trainee advocate, I am viewed as a capable lawyer who merely needs some guidance to fully realise my potential. The firm allows me to handle tasks and files independently, treating me not just as a trainee but as a budding professional.

I have been entrusted with the complete management of matters, and only report directly to the partner when necessary. Additionally, I am often permitted to share correspondence with clients directly, fostering a deeper sense of responsibility and confidence in my abilities. The experience has been empowering and transformative.  

How do you find working for CDH? 

Working for CDH is an exceptional experience. The firm boasts an impressive array of files and significant matters, providing a dynamic and stimulating environment. The autonomy granted to manage my own files is particularly beneficial, as it not only enhances my learning but also builds a great deal of confidence in my abilities.

The Kenyan branch, in particular, is an exciting place to be. As it continues to grow, there is tremendous potential for both personal and professional development. Being associated with CDH is highly advantageous for my career, as the firm commands a great deal of respect in the legal community. 

Questions you wish you knew the answers to, before becoming a trainee advocate? 

Whether I would fit into the firm's culture and whether I would eventually be retained as an associate.

Thankfully, fitting in has not been a problem at all. The supportive environment has made the transition smooth and welcoming. As for retention, it remains a hope and a goal. While the future is uncertain, the experience and confidence I have gained thus far make me optimistic about my prospects.