The Legal Ladder

In this episode I speak to Serena Chang and Imi Clarke, two trainee solicitors at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer - a top 'Magic Circle' law firm! Serena and Imi talk us through what it's like to be a trainee solicitor at Freshfields, advice for anyone applying, and how to make the most of starting a training contract from home. (This episode was recorded November 2020)

In this episode I speak with Zaid Anwar, a solicitor at Lennons Solicitors who specialises in Dispute Resolution. Zaid talks us through what it's like to work at a regional firm, the successes and challenges of his journey to qualification as well as offering some great advice to aspiring solicitors who are at the beginnings of their own respective journeys. A do-not-miss episode for sure!

In this episode I speak to Madeleine Steele, a pupil barrister at Unity Street Chambers in Bristol. Maddie takes us through the process of qualifying as a barrister in the UK, as well as providing tips for Pupillage applications and interviews, and for making the most of the process!

In this episode I speak to Ellen Kerr. Ellen works as a paralegal at Morgan Sports Law. We discuss what the role of a paralegal entails, how to get your first paralegal position as a non-law graduate, and everything to do with the world of 'Sports Law' which is such a fascinating sub-section of the law!

In this episode I speak to Rachel Segal, a personal injury barrister practicing at St. John's Chambers in Bristol. Having decided at the age of 40 she wanted a career change, Rachel retrained following an already well established career in academia and higher education policy research. Rachel talks through life as a junior personal injury barrister, typical personal injury cases and the necessary skills you need to succeed working in this specialism.

In this episode I speak to Jonathan Hughes who has previously been a partner in two US law firms and, most notably, was the first ever Global General Counsel at Barclays Investment Bank (previously Barclays Capital). Jonathan compares the two different positions of leadership and breaks down the role of General Counsel in detail, as well as offering advice on how to thrive as an in-house lawyer and how to know if that path is the right one for you.

In this episode I speak to Edward Platts, a future trainee solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills and a recent non-law graduate. Ed talks us through what actually happens on a vacation scheme, how to secure that all-important training contract, and offers some insight into how non-law students in particular can make sure they stand out throughout the process.

In this episode I speak to senior barrister Deborah Dinan-Hayward, who is a specialist in matrimonial finance and ToLATA (The Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act), a financial dispute arbitrator, and a recently appointed Deputy District Judge. Drawing from such a wealth and breadth of experience, Deborah offers candid insights into the life of a senior female barrister, matrimonial finance work and how the pandemic will shape the future of the profession.

A brief introduction to me, why I started this podcast, and what you can expect to come!