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Trainee Profile - Emilie Jones
 During my first seat, in IP/IT, the bulk of my work consisted of research and memo-writing on various topics, ranging from trade marks, data protection, privacy, copyright, to identity theft and occasionally also involving research on a French law question, which gave me the opportunity to keep up my language skills. These assignments were essential in helping me acquire skills that are fundamental to practising law. During my first month, I was asked to write the first draft of an academic paper on data security in Europe: this was a real challenge, but it was very satisfying when the publication arrived on my desk a month later!
I was given a lot of client contact and responsibility early on. I even, in the place of my supervisor, attended a one-day round-table discussion on data protection with privacy officers from a large number of multi-national companies and another time I found myself dining with the US ambassador to Hungary.
My first four months in the Corporate group involved working on two major deals: one project financing in India and one Eurobond offer of a Eastern European company. In the first deal, Covington advised two of India’s largest banks in a $1 billion syndicated loan to finance the building of a port and power plant in India. The deal had a truly international feel: the clients were in Mumbai, India and Singapore; the 29 banks in the syndication process were spread all across Europe, Middle East, South Africa and Asia; and the Covington team of lawyers were based in the London, DC and New York offices. It was fascinating to experience and be part of the seamless interaction that took place between both the different Covington offices and the clients, despite the geographical distances involved. I assisted with the production and review of documents in relation to the loan, carrying out the closing in Dubai and ensuring that all the post-closing matters were dealt with smoothly. It was nerve-wracking ensuring that all 7,200 signature pages were signed properly at the closing and brought back to the London office (in my bag!). However, my first closing was an experience of a life-time with belly dancing, dune buggying and camel riding in the Dubai desert!
The second deal also involved a trans-Atlantic Covington team, whilst our clients were based in Eastern Europe. I assisted with due diligence and finalising the offering memorandum. As well as learning the ins and outs of telecoms, it was interesting to see how the deal developed from beginning to end. I was always invited to participate in conference calls and meetings to ensure that I felt involved and kept up-to-date.
Also, during the last two months in the Corporate department I was given the opportunity to work on smaller commercial projects, mainly involving clients in the technology and pharmaceutical fields. This meant that I was able to practice drafting agreements and emails to clients.
My first year at Covington has gone by incredibly quickly and has been interesting, varied and enjoyable. Although at times challenging, I always feel that I have the support of senior lawyers, staff and fellow trainees, which is part and parcel of the friendly atmosphere at the firm. I am excited to start my next seat in the Dispute Resolution department and take on new challenges.
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