Emerging legal voice and future trainee solicitor Seyi Erinle shares his thoughtful path into commercial law — shaped by criminology, cross-cultural perspective, and the discipline to aim high even after rejection. A must-listen episode of The Lawyer Files.
—
🎙️ In this episode of The Lawyer Files, I sit down with Seyi Erinle — future trainee solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills, Law & Criminology graduate from the University of Sheffield, and founding Vice President of the BAME Law Society. With a journey that started in criminal psychology and evolved into corporate deals, Seyi reflects on what it really takes to grow, adapt, and succeed in commercial law.
From bingeing interrogation analysis videos on YouTube to writing contracts during a fast-paced vacation scheme, Seyi’s story is grounded in curiosity, ambition, and a commitment to continuous growth — both personally and professionally.
We talk about:
✅ How a fascination with criminal law led to an unexpected interest in corporate practice
✅ What helped him stand out and secure a training contract at HSF
✅ Lessons from his vacation scheme in Insurance Disputes and Corporate Energy
✅ Why time management and communication are make-or-break trainee skills
✅ His passion for international exposure — and why he’s learning French before starting his TC
✅ Practical advice for aspiring solicitors navigating rejections and staying ambitious
Whether you're shifting focus within law, applying to competitive firms, or figuring out how to develop confidence through experience — Seyi’s story is packed with insight, strategy, and quiet determination.
👉 Follow The Lawyer Files on Instagram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube
📰 Subscribe on Substack for written interviews, legal career advice, and behind-the-scenes insight from the next generation of legal talent.
Contact/Enquiries:
IG: 1Denice.x
Email: Thelawyerfiles@outlook.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denice-o/