Taking the Scenic Route to Qualification

Unlike many of my peers, I didn’t take the traditional route into law. After college, I started working as a hotel receptionist, unsure of what I wanted to do long-term. Over the years, I developed strong communication skills, learned how to handle high-pressure situations, and became comfortable dealing with people from all walks of life skills that would later prove invaluable in my legal career

I decided to study law at university and, after graduating, worked as a paralegal to gain practical experience. When the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) pathway was introduced, I saw it as an opportunity to qualify in a way that allowed me to build on my hands-on experience while continuing to work. Now, as a trainee solicitor specialising in residential conveyancing, I’m balancing work with my SQE2 studies and looking ahead to qualification.

Life as a Trainee Solicitor

Living close to the office means I get to walk to work, which is a great way to start the day. Once at my desk, my focus is on managing conveyancing transactions, dealing with clients, estate agents, lenders, and other solicitors to ensure smooth progress. My role involves reviewing contract packs, checking title deeds, raising and responding to enquiries, drafting reports for clients, and preparing for exchanges and completions. Each transaction is different, so there’s always something new to learn.

One of the most rewarding aspects of conveyancing is helping clients navigate what is often one of the biggest purchases of their lives. Whether it’s a first-time buyer looking for reassurance or a property investor working to tight deadlines, clear communication is key. My background in hospitality has given me a natural ability to build rapport and manage client expectations, which is especially useful in this fast-paced area of law.

At lunchtime, I head home to take my dog out for a walk a welcome break from the screen and a chance to reset before the afternoon’s work. Afternoons are often busy, particularly when working towards exchange and completion deadlines. There’s a lot of coordination involved, making sure all conditions have been met, funds are in place, and clients are fully informed. I also assist with post-completion tasks such as submitting Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) returns and registering properties with the Land Registry. While these administrative steps might not be the most exciting part of the job, they’re essential to ensuring everything is properly finalised.

Balancing Work, Study, and Networking

Outside of work, my evenings are dedicated to studying for SQE2 and working on my dissertations. Balancing a full-time role with ongoing studies is demanding but knowing that each step is bringing me closer to qualification keeps me motivated.

I also try to attend local networking events whenever possible. While I’m naturally comfortable speaking with people, networking in a professional legal setting is something I’m still working on. Building connections in the local area is not only important for career progression but also helps me grow in confidence as I develop into my role as a solicitor.

Looking Ahead

My path into law hasn’t been the most conventional, but I wouldn’t change it. Every experience, from working in hospitality to my time as a paralegal, has contributed to the skills I use daily in my role as a trainee solicitor.

For anyone considering a career change into law, my advice would be simple there’s no single right way to get there. Every experience brings value, and taking a different route can sometimes make you even more prepared for the challenges ahead.