Senior Associate, Commercial Property  | Bedell Cristin

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day in Commercial Property brings a blend of routine and surprise. Fuelled by the kickstart of my morning coffee, I start off with a meeting with my trainee, mapping out the day’s plan. 

As a Senior Associate at Bedell Cristin, I navigate the world of landlords, tenants, developers, and more. Keeping clients in the loop takes priority, before diving into legal drafting and transactional work. Meetings with clients and internal catch-ups help to fill my schedule, but a particular reward comes from supervising my trainee. 

Our clients (from major lenders to property developers) keep things interesting, and Bedell Cristin’s comprehensive expertise ensures a smooth, multi-disciplinary service. It’s a balanced mix of structure and variety in the world of Commercial Property.

How did you get your job? / What training, degree, education do you need? 

I studied Law at university, followed by the Legal Practice Course. I then secured a 2 year training contract at a firm in Manchester and qualified as a solicitor of England and Wales in 2014. 

I worked as a solicitor in Manchester for six years before moving to Bedell Cristin, in Jersey, so I have now been practicing Commercial Property for nearly 10 years. Jersey law is different to the UK so after 2 years of study, I was sworn in as a Jersey Advocate in December 2023.

What are the most important skills needed for your role/job?

A good lawyer has an eye for detail and is motivated by providing a good service to their clients. Most essential, however, are excellent communication skills.

Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role? 

Every day is a school day! No two transactions are the same and, as a lawyer, you need to constantly develop your technical skills. It is also increasingly important that, to be a modern lawyer, you grow your management and business development skills. I don’t think I will ever stop learning in this job.

What motivates you in this role? 

My role challenges me daily which always keeps me motivated! I love working with my clients and am always greatly satisfied when a transaction concludes successfully. 

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?

Beg, borrow and steal legal work experience; it is invaluable when you come to apply for roles in the legal profession.

Never turn up to an interview without knowing as much as you can about the firm and role that you are applying for.

Do your research on the different ways you can become qualified as a lawyer. There are a number of different routes, some of which do not require you to have a law degree (for example trainee schemes through the SQE route) and bursary schemes which may sponsor some of the costs of your studies.

What would you tell your younger self?

Hard work always pays off; trust the process!