Qualifying as a Solicitor – By Faye Edemenson

Faye Edemenson qualified as a solicitor in June 2023 and assists clients with residential property transactions, Will writing and preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney from the firm’s Northallerton office.

Qualification as a solicitor comes after the successful completion of her period of recognised training (often known as a training contract) where Faye gained experience in the practical application of her legal knowledge. Here, Faye reflects on the final 18 months of her journey to become a solicitor and provides advice to other people considering a career in law.

Why did you want to become a solicitor?

I have always enjoyed problem solving and wanted a career where I could use my experience, analytical skills and research to find practical solutions for clients. Being a solicitor gives you an opportunity to help people, often through some of the most key moments of their lives, for things where their legal help and expertise is vital. I carried out work experience in a couple of local law firms before going to university to confirm that a career in law was the right decision and took part in pro bono work (free advice) at charities throughout my time at university which continued to illustrate the ways legal advice and solicitors can help people.

How does it feel to finally be qualified?

It feels like it has been a long time coming but also has come around very quickly at the same time. I am very proud to have qualified at such a wonderful firm and it feels like a massive relief to know I have successfully fulfilled all the training, courses and exams to become a Solicitor. At the same time, I know that the hard work doesn’t stop here, and I am looking forward to continuing learning and gaining more experience.

What elements of the job do you like the most?

I enjoy being able to see the positive impact my work has on people, for example by hearing how happy clients are to have completed on their house purchase or the peace of mind their affairs are in order on their death.

I also enjoy the team atmosphere amongst my colleagues across firm who all readily share their experience and knowledge with me and I have felt an integral and valued member of the team.

What are your hopes for the future?

Qualifying as a solicitor is only an important milestone in my career and I will continue to develop my experience in Residential Property (conveyancing) and Wills & Probate in order to continue providing a high-quality service for my clients.

Having relocated from the firm’s Darlington office in the spring, I am also keen to become more involved in the local Northallerton community and be able to grow my network of contacts within the town for the benefit of my clients who may require complimentary services to the legal services we provide.

Advice for anyone considering a career in law?

My advice to anyone considering a career in law would be to try and gain experience in a few different areas of law and the different types of firms to learn what you prefer. This is because the areas of law you think you would prefer on paper is not always what you find most interesting in practice and the type of firm you train and work in can have a huge impact on the quality of training received, level of responsibility enjoyed and work life balance.

I have always had a preference for a high street law firm as I enjoy the high level of client contact and getting to know my clients as individuals. I pride myself on being personable and approachable and I feel like it can be easier to build strong relationships with local clients and feel like you are making a difference to their lives.

What do you do outside of law?

Outside of work you will find me baking some goodies in the kitchen, playing tennis at my local club where I have been a member for as long as I can remember and I am now Club Secretary, walking my dog, or at the Riverside Stadium supporting the mighty Boro.