I began working for Dorset Council in April 2018 as a Paralegal. At the time, I was fresh out of university, having studied a law degree, and whilst ambitious, was unsure on my next steps. I started within the Childcare team and quickly realised what a positive working and learning environment it was.
Working for a local authority gave me a different perspective and a renewed enthusiasm to qualify as a solicitor. I was supported to study my LPC part time over two years, and was then given the opportunity of a training contract. I tailored my training contract seats to my own interests, and was well supported throughout. I was given increasing responsibility and exposure to highly interesting and complex cases. Upon qualification, I obtained a Solicitor post within the Adults team and now provide legal advice on a variety of issues affecting adult service users and manage my own court caseload. I find my job highly rewarding and I continue to be supported to develop my knowledge and skills further.
I cannot speak highly enough about my colleagues and the positive impact they have had on my career to date. In four and a half years, I have developed considerably. I am now fully qualified and very grateful for the continued support shown by Dorset Council. There is a strong emphasis on collaborative working and it is a really positive place to work. I thoroughly enjoy my job and am looking forward to the next four and a half years.