What made you go into law?
I first thought about a career in law when involved in debating at school. I always enjoyed researching and arguing my point! I then went on to read law at University and knew I wanted to pursue a career as a Solicitor. I wanted a job that would help people which is why I was drawn to a role in a Court of Protection team.
When did you join Boyes Turner and what is your role?
I joined Boyes Turner in May 2020 as a Solicitor in the Court of Protection team. I assist with the day to day management of our client’s property and financial affairs.
Prior to this I graduated from Bournemouth University in 2013 and joined the Court of Protection team within a national firm where I also trained as a Solicitor. I joined as an administration assistant and then became a paralegal when I covered the maternity leave of a colleague and managed her case load whilst also studying the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
I have been able to work on and assist with a variety of cases involving children and adults who have acquired brain injuries.
Whilst on my training contract I sat with the Contentious Trust and Probate team and gained experience with contentious Court of Protection matters.
Some examples of interesting matters I have been involved in are:
- Making an urgent Statutory Will application where the Court had removed two attorney’s and appointed a professional deputy. The client was receiving end of life care and a Will had recently been drafted leaving everything to the attorney’s. It was established that the client had lacked capacity when the Will had been executed and the previous Will and letter of wishes showed that leaving the entire estate to the attorney’s was not what they would have wanted.
- Applying to the Court of Protection for authority to commence possession proceedings against a person living in a client’s property. I then instructed counsel on behalf of the deputy and attended the hearing.
What do you like most in your new role?
Working in the Court of Protection team means I help clients who have been through some of the most difficult times in their lives. It is a privilege to be able to help these clients and their families and I find the work hugely rewarding. I am really enjoying being able to do this within such an experienced and knowledgeable team and am learning and developing my skills everyday.
This role is extremely varied and no two days are the same. I could be drafting a deputyship application in the morning and then assisting with the adaptation of a property and liaising with family, project managers and builders in the afternoon. I thoroughly enjoy the variety of the work I am involved in and it is lovely to see your work positively impact someone’s life.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I have an 18 month old who keeps me fairly busy! I enjoy walking and meeting family and friends for long walks. Having recently moved to Reading, I am looking forward to finding some nice local walks!
What piece of advice would you give to someone thinking of joining the legal profession?
There are so many areas of law and the type of work can be extremely varied. I would advise anyone looking to join the legal profession to get some practical experience and get a feel for the area you want to practice in. This can help when you look at training as you can ensure you get experience that complements the area you want to practice in.
