Age: 23
University attended: University of Law Guildford and Coventry University
Course: Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and Geography (BSC)
What did you want to be when you were 8 years old? After consulting with my Mum – a train driver
Favourite way to relax: Playing or watching football/any other sport, eating and drinking out or listening to music
Favourite place to eat in Jersey: Sangria, Hideout or Pizza Quarter
Favourite possession: My chocolate Labrador “LouLou” (if that counts)
What made you choose to work for Bedell?
I have had a relationship with Bedell Cristin from my years in sixth form subsequently being accepted onto their bursary scheme. The firm’s aspirational though friendly culture was evident from day one, having completed a year in the knowledge function I got to build a brilliant relationship with the firm and those individuals within it. As one of the few firms in Jersey that offer qualification as an England and Wales Solicitor, I jumped at the opportunity to continue my legal endeavours at such an outstanding firm, with some of the industry’s brightest individuals to learn from.
What professional training have you done?
I am undertaking Qualifying Work Experience under the Solicitor Regulatory Authority’s new Solicitors Qualification Examination regime. Although I am working towards the SQE, I have been offered the opportunity to carry out my work experience in a similar way to completing a traditional Training Contract with seats in Litigation, Property, International Private Client and Financial Service Law, I am simultaneously studying for 2 sets of SQE examinations which are in July 2022 and April 2023. This will allow me to add to my knowledge from the GDL through on the job learning coupled with online tutoring. I regularly attend training sessions whether it be in house presentations, round table events or external client seminars.
What do you do on an average day?
Every day is so different, the only 2 staples are coffee in the morning and the occasional cake. My role currently in the litigation team includes: researching points of law, gathering authorities, liaising with clients and intermediaries, meeting with clients and attending court. The team have been incredibly welcoming, I am excited to experience the other areas the firm operates in.
What is your next step?
I am due to end my Training contract in September 2023, by which point I will have taken all the necessary exams under SQE1 and SQE2, I will then qualify as an England and Wales solicitor. I look forward to progressing in my legal career: to continue learning, honing and specialising my knowledge and skills, moving up the ladder and growing my own client base.
What advice would you give yourself as a graduate considering the experience you have now?
Be tenacious, don’t be disheartened by adversity or setbacks – use them as motivation to work harder. If you want to be successful, apply yourself and don’t give up.
MORE ABOUT BEDELL CRISTIN
Join the Bedell Cristin family. We truly believe that people are our best asset and we live and breathe this by how we work. If you’re looking for challenging and rewarding work in a collaborative and supportive environment, where you have the space to think and act in the best way possible for our clients, then we’re the firm for you.
INTERESTED?
To find out more, please visit www.bedellcristin.com
