As a Chartered Legal Executive (FCILEx) within the Property department, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to my work. My journey to qualification began with a degree in Psychology, providing me with a strong foundation in understanding human behaviour and communication – invaluable assets in navigating the sensitive and often complex matters that come with property work.
While pursuing my legal studies to qualify as a lawyer, I gained practical experience through legal secretarial and paralegal roles, building a robust understanding of legal procedures and client service. My professional experience includes working with top city firms, where I honed my attention to detail and ability to handle high-value, complex cases. I have over 25 years of experience working in property law and demonstrate a deep understanding of the intricacies of property transactions. I qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive lawyer (FCILEx) in 2016.
My passion lies in providing clear, empathetic, and effective legal guidance to clients. I understand the importance of delivering positive outcomes and take great satisfaction in assisting clients through significant life events such as buying and selling property. I am committed to ensuring clients feel supported and informed throughout the legal process. My experience extends to assisting with residential, mixed use and commercial sales and acquisitions, leases, refinance portfolios, remortgages and transfers of equity.
I am a firm believer in embracing opportunities and approaching challenges with a positive mindset. This philosophy extends beyond my professional life, driving my commitment to charitable work and global exploration. I have a long history of involvement in charity projects and have travelled extensively, fostering a broad understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. Outside of my professional life, I am a dedicated mother to my young son, who shares my passion for travel.
Favourite Quotes:
- “Most of the old moles I know, wish they’d listened less to their fears, and more to their dreams” – Charlie Mackesy
- “If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll just end up some place else” – Yogi Berra”
What attracted, and keeps you in this area of law?
I began my legal career at a conveyancing company, which unfortunately just wasn’t for me. I came across an advert for a position in the probate department at MWB and, despite having no direct experience with the department, I got the job! I soon realised that helping people when they are most in need brings me a sense of fulfilment that helping people move to a new house just didn’t do. I have been extraordinarily lucky to work in such a fantastic department and I cannot see myself doing anything else.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Every workday begins with a cup of tea and, usually, a catch up with my colleagues. I will then spend some time in client meetings, as face to face contact is important in building a connection with my clients. Afterwards, I will review my files and reply to emails, whilst usually speaking to a few clients over the telephone to keep them up to date with progress. As the administration of an estate can take anywhere between 9 – 18 months, I do get to know my clients and it is always a pleasure to hear from them.
What are your strengths and skills?
I have been told that I am able to take a complex concept and break it down into easy-to-understand chunks. The law of Wills and Probate is somewhat complex and often rooted in terminology from the 19th century. I enjoy being able to translate this into plain English.
I am also MWB’s representative sitting on the Lewes and District Dementia Action Alliance committee. I am working to build up the profile of dementia friendly business in Lewes and looking to develop my links with the local community to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients living with dementia and their carers.
Tell me about a memorable time when you have helped a client.
I received a call from a client recently. After asking a quick question about her matter, we talked for 20 minutes. At the end of the call the client told me that she was feeling very lonely following the loss of her husband and that talking to me had really brightened her day. I was touched that she had thought of me and that I had made a difference. This is an example of what makes my job worthwhile.
Outside of work
I enjoy running with Lewes Athletics Club and bouldering indoors in Brighton. I also have two Yorkshire Terriers that keep me busy when I am at home!