Back in the office: an insider’s view into the Cripps offices

I’m sure many will agree that while working from home full-time initially seemed too good to be true, the novelty quickly wore off. With hybrid working now the norm for most, this blog aims to provide some insight into working days at Cripps offices.

Typically, people work from the office 2-3 days per week but each person and each team’s preferences may differ slightly – and there is no obligation to work from home at all. This balance provides the opportunity to maximise your work-life balance while maintaining good working relationships with colleagues in your team and other trainees.

As a trainee, the importance of being able to work in the office cannot be understated and trainees are encouraged to come in as much as they can. Not only is it an opportunity to meet various people throughout the firm that you may not otherwise have the opportunity to interact with but, in terms of training, being able to ask questions and discuss problems and/or ideas with colleagues is vital (without the need to arrange a virtual call!). Being in the office is also a great opportunity to absorb information and learn from others simply by listening or overhearing their discussions.

It is an added bonus that the Cripps offices have a modern and vibrant yet professional aesthetic. Our Tunbridge Wells office is split over 4 floors with the ground floor hosting our Reception team who you will see as you enter the building through the revolving glass doors (complete with our new Cripps logo!), along with a number of meeting rooms for client meetings, internal meetings and events.

The remaining three floors are home to the Cripps legal practices: Real estate, Private clients and Corporate. Spread throughout the office are the various business support teams who help the firm to run smoothly every day.

And, on the top floor is our famous Sky Lounge, which boasts amazing views across Kent and is a great place to catch up informally with colleagues over a coffee.

The atmosphere within the office reflects its aesthetic. It is a sociable yet professional atmosphere where everyone is incredibly approachable and willing to help. The open plan layout of the office also eliminates any form of hierarchy between colleagues.

In London, Cripps occupies one floor of the chic offices at 80 Victoria Street, just a stone’s throw away from Victoria Station, surrounded by the market stalls, restaurants and shopping hub in Cardinal Place. Much like the Tunbridge Wells office, the London office benefits from an open plan layout and collegiate atmosphere. Many have a base in London and people often spend time at both offices which provides even more opportunity to see new faces and expand your network.

Overall, I can’t imagine a better place to work – both in terms of the culture and the office space. A friendly atmosphere may not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking about working for a law firm, but that is certainly what you get at Cripps.