I studied at Dundee University completing an LLB in English Law, a Scots Law Conversion and then the Diploma. I knew that Court work was what I wanted to do, and I applied to Lindsays for a traineeship.
I was over the moon when Lindsays offered me a two-year specialised litigation traineeship. As a trainee, I had around fifty of my own files and clients, which was fantastic experience.
During the second year of my traineeship I was given the opportunity to become involved with Lindsays licensing team. With licensing law being such a niche area, I jumped at the chance.
I completed my traineeship on 1 September 2010 and I am delighted to have been retained as a Newly Qualified Solicitor (NQ).
As a NQ, I straddle the litigation and licensing departments, allowing me to build and develop my skills in both of these fast paced and exciting spheres of legal work. As with litigation, licensing requires you to appear on your client’s behalf and I’ve been touring the country’s Licensing Boards, from Ayrshire to Argyll and Bute!
Being out of the office so much presents new challenges and requires me to carefully manage my time and my client’s expectations (I cannot always be at my desk when they call). However, with good communication and a great team, prepared to step in and assist when I’m otherwise engaged, I can be confident clients who have urgent queries get to speak to a person - rather than just an answer machine.
With a diverse case load, opportunity to appear at Courts and Board all over the country and exposure to both litigation and licensing, I feel I really do get the best of both worlds.
