My first introduction to law was in 2022, with a work experience stint at Shentons. At the time I was at college, feeling underchallenged and lacking motivation, with vague aspirations of becoming a firefighter or pursuing a trade.

As part of my course, I was required to undertake work experience, and I found a placement at Shentons. I was lucky enough to attend a week-long criminal trial at Winchester Crown Court, and I was captured. The intricate and complicated world of solicitors, judges, barristers, clerks, and courtrooms was fascinating to me.

As with most people, my perception of the legal profession was through the theatrical lens of media, with shows like Better Call Saul painting a glamorous (though perhaps fantastical) image. The feeling of watching a real trial unfold was truly captivating; it stirred a genuine interest in a career path that I hadn’t ever considered.

Returning to college after such an interesting week was difficult, particularly as I believed pursuing a career in law would mean the financial burden and stress of university. Since the age of 12, I have been keen to work, taking on local paper rounds, manual labour, and kitchen work.

Therefore, it was a welcome surprise when I received a call from Shentons just a few weeks later, asking me to take on some temporary work on reception. I was excited to be back in the legal world that had so greatly captured my interest, and so I took them up on the opportunity.

I was soon offered a permanent role as a Legal Secretary in the Family Department, scrapping my uninspiring college course to work alongside a brilliant team, helping those in need get justice for themselves and their children. I thrived in my newfound role, fuelled by ambition and determination to make a real impact in people’s lives. Last year, I was promoted to Paralegal and embraced the increased responsibility and involvement in my team’s caseload.

Shentons have been incredibly supportive throughout every step in my career so far, recently offering me a Solicitor Apprenticeship. This opportunity allows me to qualify as a solicitor without following the traditional university path. This alternative path, where I can simultaneously work and train as a Solicitor, was a revelation. The realisation that there are career avenues for people who struggle with the rigours of traditional education is incredibly encouraging.

Working in Family Law is an intricate balance of stress and reward. Our matters are often fraught, with cases of abuse, neglect and addiction being all too common. However, being instrumental in rebuilding someone’s life, safeguarding the wellbeing of children, seeing victims of abuse find solace, and standing up for those who can’t advocate for themselves are rewards which far outshadow the difficult aspects of Family Law.