Question 1: Where did you study law and why did you want to become a lawyer?
When leaving school, I initially applied to be a primary school teacher and carried out a year of training in York. I had considered law when applying for universities but I didn’t think I would get the grades to do this so I decided to try something else.
Both of my parents are lawyers, so throughout my childhood I had a strong interest in this career. During my year in York I soon realised teaching was not what I wanted to do.
I completed my first year of the course and then decided to return to college to do my AS Level in law, ensuring this was something I wanted to study. During this time I had a number of work experience placements at law firms in the North East. I later obtained a place at Northumbria University on their MLaw course, and knew I had made the right career move.
Question 2: Why did you want to specialise in Commercial Property?
When beginning my law degree, I always thought I would want to specialise in family or crime. However when beginning my degree, I was particularly interested in the property modules.
I worked throughout my degree at a national firm in their property Litigation department, until I obtained my training contract. During this time I found that litigation wasn’t for me. I was over the moon when receiving my offer for the training contract at Swinburne Maddison and that I would begin this within the Property department.
I initially worked within the residential conveyancing department, and although I enjoyed this, I preferred the diversity of Commercial Property. Each property matter is different and each client has a different need. I get to work alongside individuals, companies and banks.
Question 3: What has been your greatest achievement at Swinburne Maddison?
My greatest achievement would have to be qualifying as a solicitor. From initially thinking I wouldn’t ever be able to study law when leaving school, I was lucky enough to obtain a training contract with Swinburne Maddison in October following my graduation. I then qualified in October 2017 and I am enjoying continuing to grow and develop my skills and knowledge, whilst working with a fantastic team.
