Rugby, United Kingdom
I work in the Family team as a dual qualified Solicitor and Legal Executive. I have specialised in Family Law since 2005 when I was working as a Legal Secretary and I joined Brethertons LLP in 2007. Since that time, I have qualified as a Legal Executive (in June 2014) and then as a Solicitor (in December 2016). I therefore spent 9 years studying as I progressed from a Legal Secretary to a qualified Legal Executive and finally a Solicitor.
I support and advise customers on all aspects of Family and Matrimonial Law including divorce, separation, dissolution of civil partnerships and disputes regarding arrangements for children. I am focused on resolving disputes without adding any further hassle or tension to what is already a difficult time. No two matters are the same, and so it is important to adapt to the individual’s needs.
Legal Secretary in the Family Department
Legal Secretary and Administration
I first realised I wanted to become a Solicitor when I undertook work experience at a Law firm in Manchester. I decided that rather than pursue the traditional route of studying Law at University, completing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and then trying to find a Training Contract, I would rather take a more practical approach.
I was able to start working at a Law firm in September 2004, as an administrator and Legal Secretary. I quickly realised I wanted to specialise in Family Law, and so joined the Family team at Alsters Kelley Solicitors, again as a Legal Secretary. In 2007 I joined Brethertons, who supported me whilst I studied at Warwickshire College one night a week to complete my Level 3 and Level 6. During this time I progressed from being a Legal Secretary to a Paralegal, and I was admitted as a Chartered Legal Executive in June 2014.
Thereafter I studied additional subjects, as required by the Law Society in order to cross-qualify as a solicitor. I was able to start my Legal Practice Course on a part time basis in September 2014, completing this with a Distinction in June 2016. I was admitted as a Solicitor in December 2016, and became an Associate in October 2017.
Throughout my 9 years studying, I was working at Brethertons in the Family team gaining valuable experience. I therefore not only have the technical knowledge but the practical skills necessary to best advise and support clients.
2014 - 2016
2007 - 2014
Completion of CILEx Level 3, Level 6 and other Single Subject Modules in line with the Law Society's requirements to cross-qualify as a solicitor
You really made things easier than I had anticipated and your thoughtful guidance was truly appreciated. Thank you again for your guidance and patience whilst helping me through the divorce process
Dear Katie
Thank you is scarcely enough! How could I have survived without you? Thank you so very much Katie, for not just your skill and expertise but also your 'counselling' and friendship. Also your generosity and kingless, support, time and hard work. The list is endless!
In the midst of all this trauma I have been greatly blessed by you. People like you restore my faith in human nature!
Thank you, love and best wishes!
From De Montfort University
Admitted as a Chartered Legal Executive
Admitted as a Solicitor