Qualifying as a solicitor is a significant milestone in any legal career, and following the announcement of four newly qualified solicitors at Harrison Drury, we’re proud to welcome Louise Shaw into our divorce and family law team.
Louise’s journey with Harrison Drury began as a trainee, and we caught up with her to reflect on the lessons she has learned during her contract and how they will shape the next stage of her career.
If you could sum up your journey to becoming a qualified solicitor in three words, what would they be?
Challenging, rewarding, and motivating.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and what made you choose your practice area?
I wanted a career in law for as long as I can remember. I chose family law as I enjoy meeting clients and helping them through a difficult time in their lives – I can’t imagine doing anything else!
How has the team at Harrison Drury supported you during your training?
The team has been incredibly supportive during my training, always ready with advice and happy to answer any questions I had. I feel supported by the firm for creating a workplace where I can be myself — something that means a great deal to me.
Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and what did you learn from them?
I don’t have an individual influence or mentor, but I have learnt a lot from working with great people across different teams and firms throughout the years.
What’s the one skill you use the most at work that you never thought would be part of your daily toolkit?
Adaptability. It’s important to be organised and have your day planned out, but it’s even more important to be adaptable as your plans can quickly change depending on client needs.
What advice would you give current or future trainees preparing for qualification?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will never stop learning throughout your career, and you’re not expected to know everything.
What is your favourite memory during your time at Harrison Drury?
I can’t pinpoint a specific memory, but the highlight has been meeting great people across the firm and building connections throughout my training.
What’s the most unexpected challenge you’ve faced during your training, and how did you overcome it?
Just as I was getting to grips with an area of law, the seat would end and I’d have to start from scratch in a new one. I got through it by leaning on the skills that carry across seats and by figuring out how to get up to speed quickly each time.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about your job?
The biggest misconception is that people assume we have knowledge about all areas of law and can advise them in different areas.
Who or what outside of the legal world inspires you in your work?
I’m inspired by the people around me as well as my own experiences. I’ve always believed in setting clear goals—working hard to achieve them, and then setting the next challenge to strive towards.
Interested in finding out more about a career in law? Our careers page has more details about the opportunities at Harrison Drury.