- What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
Having worked in an insurance company for a few years, I decided that I had a keen interest in the legal side of it all and then I made my move to a large solicitor’s firm in Newcastle, where I eventually became a Legal Clerk, dealing with litigated matters. I was then extremely fortunate to be chosen to become a Trainee Paralegal within their brand-new Wills and Probate department.
- You’ve been with Swinburne Maddison for just over a year. Tell us about your role in the Private Client team?
My role as a Private Client Paralegal involves meeting with clients face to face, at their homes and over video call, to take new instructions on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Probate Matters and providing the relevant advice to each client, depending on their circumstances.
I also draft Wills of all kinds, with supporting documents, Lasting Powers of Attorney and complete all relevant paperwork to apply for Probate. I deal with the administration of estates, and I have some experience in Deputyship applications.
- You earned a Diploma in Paralegal Studies with the National Association of Licensed Paralegals. What did that course involve?
The course was a good start for me when I became a Trainee Paralegal, as it gave me all the basic knowledge that I needed about all the different aspects of Law. I chose to do this, as I didn’t attend University to complete a Law Degree and having a young family, it meant it was very flexible to be able to study, work and be a mother!
- What’s one thing about Private Client law that surprised you or that you didn’t expect when you started?
Honestly, just how much Private Client Law entails, most people think it is just Wills and Probate.
But it’s much more than that, it’s Estate Planning, Living Wills, Deputyship Orders, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trust management, Assessing Mental Capacity and Managing the Affairs of someone who has lost capacity – there is a lot more too!
- Are there particular areas within Private Client law that you’re interested in further developing?
I would like to further my knowledge on Trusts, I’m lucky enough to currently have three fantastic Solicitors on the team, who are extremely knowledgeable and willing to help me develop my skills on Trusts.
- Where do you see your legal career heading in the future?
Having not attended University to study law, I would like to go the alternative route and begin my Cilex journey to become a Chartered Legal Executive or Cilex Lawyer.
- Why did you want to work at Swinburne Maddison?
I wanted to work at a well-established, successful, and reputable firm. After all, we are award winning!
- What do you enjoy most about working at the firm?
The people, everyone is so friendly and approachable. It makes it a great place to work!
- What message or advice would you like to share with your fellow paralegals or those considering a career in law?
Go for it, as someone who didn’t attend university, I was always a little scared to try and progress into Law, but having took that leap, here I am, with a fantastic department and firm around me, who are willing to support me.
Quick Fire Round!
- How do you unwind after a busy week at work?
Honestly, having young children, I struggle to unwind. But on the rare occasion that I do, I like to either watch a movie or read a good book, with a nice cuppa and my cat, Doris curled on my lap or spending time outdoors admiring our beautiful North East scenery.
- If you could write a Will for any famous person, who would it be?
For an interesting family dynamic, Boris Johnson would be a good one! But purely because I would love to meet him, one of the worlds best long distances runner, Eliud Kipchoge would be my first option.
- What’s one item on or near your desk that never fails to make you smile?
My mug when it’s full to the brim with a nice warm coffee!
- What’s the most unusual item a client has gifted in their will?
I had such a brilliant and accomplished client, who gifted her Counsel’s Wig in her Will!
- What’s your favourite podcast or TV series?
Favourite TV series of all time would have to be The Sopranos, closely followed by Boardwalk Empire.
My favourite podcast at the moment is ‘Parenting Hell’ with Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe, the hilarious interviews from famous parent’s resonate with me so much!
