Trainee solicitor, St Asaph and Chester
I didn’t set out knowing I wanted to work in law. After studying history at the University of Liverpool, I wasn’t entirely sure where I saw my career. Like many graduates, I felt a bit lost, so I started applying for administration roles to gain experience and see where it led. I started working in the NHS, first in the payroll department and then in patient registration.
It was during my time in patient registration that something clicked. I realised that the parts of my role I enjoyed most were problem-solving and advising. I remember thinking: how can I do more of this, but at a deeper level, with more technical knowledge? That thought is what first led me to consider a career in law.
I began studying for my GDL and LPC full-time while working part-time in the NHS. It was a tough balance, but I was lucky to have supportive managers who encouraged me and provided the flexibility I needed.
After completing the LPC, I joined NWSSP Legal and Risk Services, a team of in-house lawyers supporting NHS Wales. I began as a legal secretary and then a personal injury paralegal. Working for the NHS in a legal capacity was a formative experience. It gave me perspective on how life-changing incidents affect people and the importance of approaching legal work with empathy and integrity.
It was incredibly grounding. I learnt to deal sensitively with difficult and often emotional situations, and tried to do right by the injured party. It opened my eyes to the power of the law in shaping outcomes for individuals, and that’s what really solidified my path into legal practice.
'Returning to north Wales has improved my work-life balance and brought me closer to family… Being surrounded by nature and a strong sense of community has been grounding'
I relocated to Manchester from north Wales and took an opportunity to work in the marine sector, a completely different, highly specialised area of law. It was a steep learning curve, but an exciting one. The work combined international law, commercial disputes and technical challenges, often under intense time pressure. This primarily involved lost and damaged cargo claims with limitation periods as short as six months. I was regularly dealing with international parties, tight timeframes and high-value goods, so there was always a lot at stake. There was no room for error. Staying organised and detail-focused was essential.
That role gave me valuable insight into the workings of a large commercial firm. It honed my ability to work with precision, manage a demanding caseload and stay calm under pressure. I thrived in the pace and structure. There is something very satisfying about working to tight deadlines and seeing cases progress quickly. I have a lot of respect for this area of law.
When the opportunity came up for a training contract at Mackenzie Jones, I saw it as a chance to qualify through the traditional route, which feels increasingly rare these days. What really appealed was the ability to train under highly experienced lawyers in an environment where I could be closely involved in files and learn from the ground up.
I am currently working in divorce and financial remedies, and it’s proving a great fit. The work requires both strategic legal thinking and emotional intelligence, and I find the combination especially fulfilling. It’s rewarding to help clients reach fair outcomes and move forward with their lives.
Returning to north Wales has improved my work-life balance and brought me closer to family. It’s easy to overlook how much your environment affects you, but being surrounded by nature and a strong sense of community has been grounding. You really forget how important beautiful surroundings and community ties are. It is a privilege to work in a place I know and care about, supporting local people and contributing in a meaningful way.
I’m proud to be part of Mackenzie Jones and have felt welcomed and supported from the very beginning. It’s a really exciting time. The firm’s 25th anniversary isn’t just about marking the years; it reflects a consistent commitment to excellence, client care and supporting the community. There is genuine momentum for what’s ahead and I’m excited to be part of it.
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