Raaheel's talks about what its like to be a candidate attorney at CDH

We asked Raaheel what's it like to be a trainee advocate at CDH

Embarking on the path to becoming an attorney is a challenging yet deeply rewarding experience. As a trainee advocate (CA) at CDH, each week brings new opportunities to learn, adapt and grow – both professionally and personally. Here’s a glimpse into my experience so far.

A typical week as a trainee advocate for Raaheel

There’s no such thing as a ‘typical’ week, but most follow a fast-paced rhythm. My days often begin with checking emails and reviewing my task list for the week, which is department specific and could include anything from drafting agreements to preparing court bundles or attending client consultations.

Having rotated through the Commercial Real Estate, Litigation, and Corporate & Commercial teams, I’ve had exposure to a diverse range of tasks. In the Commercial Real Estate practice, I assisted with property transfers, liaised with clients and provincial departments, conducted real estate due diligences, and regularly visited the Deeds Office. In Litigation, I drafted pleadings, attended court proceedings, prepared counsel briefs, learned how to manage a fast-moving caseload and made my debut appearance in the Magistrate’s Court.

In the Corporate & Commercial practice, I work on general commercial transactions as well as banking and finance transactions, including drafting and reviewing facility agreements, subscription agreements, memoranda of incorporation, security documents and legal opinions. This area, in particular, sparked a strong interest in me. I’ve found the dynamic nature of banking and finance law – its blend of technical detail, strategic thinking and commercial impact – genuinely exciting and intellectually stimulating.

A significant part of each day is spent recording my time accurately, meeting deadlines and making sure that I am responsive to clients and senior colleagues. The learning curve is steep, but immensely fulfilling.

What are your tips for new trainee advocates?

• Be teachable and proactive: Your legal education gives you a foundation, but you will learn the real skills on the job. Be curious, ask questions, and take initiative.
• Time management: Balancing multiple matters at once is the norm. Keeping a to-do list, prioritising effectively, and updating your seniors frequently will go a long way.
• Pay attention to detail: Whether you're proofreading a contract or taking instructions from a client, precision is key. Be attentive.
• Get comfortable with the uncomfortable: There will be times when you're unsure or overwhelmed. It’s part of the process. Be resilient and open to feedback.
• Record your time religiously: Time recording is not just a billing exercise – it helps you reflect on your productivity and identify areas where you can improve.

What is your favourite part of being a trainee advocate?

One of the most rewarding aspects has been seeing my work make a tangible impact – whether it’s a well-drafted agreement that forms the foundation of a client’s business, or a successful court outcome after weeks of preparation. I’ve also enjoyed the variety – every day presents a new challenge or learning opportunity. Travelling to different courts around the country during my time in the Litigation team, and navigating the inner workings of the Deeds Office during my time in the Commercial Real Estate practice, has added a practical, hands-on dimensions that no textbook could replicate.

What is your biggest challenge as a trainee advocate?

Managing expectations – both my own and others’ – has been one of the biggest challenges. In a high-pressure environment, it’s important to deliver quality work quickly, often under tight deadlines. Balancing accuracy with speed, learning how to communicate effectively with clients, support staff and senior attorneys, and maintaining confidence in moments of uncertainty have all tested me in different ways. But each challenge has taught me something valuable.

How do you find working for CDH?

Working at CDH has been both intense and incredibly enriching. The exposure to high-value matters and experienced professionals means the learning opportunities are vast. You are held to a high standard, which can be daunting, but it also pushes you to grow quickly. There’s a strong culture of excellence and collaboration, and I’ve found that mentorship and support are available when you seek them out.

While the workload can be heavy, and the stakes are high, the experience has given me a solid foundation that I know will serve me throughout my career.

As I reflect on my journey so far, one quote often comes to mind: "If you don’t sacrifice for what you want, then what you want becomes the sacrifice." This line has become a quiet anchor during long nights, tough deadlines and steep learning curves. It reminds me that the demands of this profession aren’t obstacles – they are investments. Each challenge is part of the sacrifice that makes the goal worth achieving.