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What attracted you to a career in law?

I was always a bit fascinated by the law and felt my skillset and methodical way of doing things was suited to a career in law. I cemented my decision to pursue a legal career after completing a couple of summers of work experience with a local high street practice that dealt with a wide variety of work and knew it was something I would enjoy.

Please outline your area of expertise. What might you do in a typical day?

I deal with various aspects of Private Client work, however a typical day might involve client meetings to take Will and/or Lasting Power of Attorney instructions and meeting with bereaved families to discuss their loved ones’ estates. In between client meetings I am often working and progressing probate files, including drafting probate applications and inheritance tax accounts, cashing in assets and distributing inheritance monies to beneficiaries.

I also regularly deal with trust matters which involve drafting trust deeds, discussing inheritance tax, and advising clients about their options in relation to existing trusts they may have set up.

What skills/strengths do you need to be a successful lawyer?

Organisation – you are likely to be juggling numerous matters on any given day and therefore it is important that you are able to stay organised and on top of things.

Attention to detail – as a lawyer, you are regularly drafting or perusing legal documents and communicating with clients and other institutions therefore the details really do matter. I personally, much to everyone’s frustration I imagine, have a good eye for spotting a spelling mistake or two!

Communication – one of the most important skills needed is the ability to communicate well. Sometimes it may be necessary to explain complicated legal documents or concepts to clients and it is important to be able to communicate in a clear and simple way, and not to use too much legal jargon which might confuse some clients.

Do you have any advice for budding solicitors interested in beginning a career in law?

Work hard, undertake lots of work/legal experience and be persistent. It’s not necessarily an easy road or career path but don’t give up!

Do you have any interests outside of law?

I have my hands pretty full with a toddler at the moment but when I do have time I enjoy creative things such as painting and drawing or learning to play piano. I also love to travel and explore new places and cultures.