Amanda Bailey, Assistant Solicitor, George Davies Solicitors - Trainee of the Year Award Winner
Firstly, where do you work and what is your role?
George Davies Solicitors LLP. Assistant Solicitor (I just qualified today!!)
Why did you choose a career in law?
Watching too many episodes of Ally McBeal when I was younger was where it all started! Seriously, I enjoy dealing with clients and using expert knowledge to help solve problems. No two cases are the same and I like the fact that I am constantly adding to my knowledge and expertise.
What attracted you to your particular specialism?
I specialise in Wills and Inheritance Tax planning. The two major attractions for me are the client contact and the technical nature of the work. Writing a will is a very personal process and I have a close and friendly relationship with my clients, which is important to me.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
My colleagues – I work in a fantastic team of people. There is a great atmosphere and knowledge, I couldn’t ask for a better firm to have been a trainee.
What particular challenges are you facing in these tougher times?
I think all young people are currently facing tough challenges in the job market. There is so much competition for training contracts and newly qualified positions. If you want to make it you need to be determined and enthusiastic to stand out from the crowd.
Where do you think the opportunities for growth will be in the legal profession in the next few years?
It will be interesting to see how the market develops over the next few years in light of the introduction alternative business structures. I think we will continue to see growth in wills and tax planning as people continue to look at ways to protect their family wealth.
What’s been your most enjoyable recent piece of work?
Obviously there are client confidentiality issues to this one for me but as a trainee I was involved in an agriculture case and growing up on a farm meant I could apply my life experience to give the team real insight to the farming community – it was good to feel like the one with all of the knowledge for a change!
What inspires you when it comes to your work?
My colleagues and my commitment to continue to improve my knowledge.
Do you work by a particular mantra or motto in your business life?
Be client focused!
Can you give one piece of professional advice to your peers?
Be passionate about what you do.
