Laura Kelly

• Co-working a high-volume case load, covering both divorce and finance and private children cases, with the national family team, mainly across Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and Bristol.
• Enhancing my understanding of diverse legal areas by attending court proceedings regularly.
• Kept up-to-date with changing laws and regulations to provide accurate advice to clients.
• Drafting legal documents throughout a case.
• Delivering initial legal advice to help clients recognise appropriate case pathways.
• Providing knowledgeable advice covering Financial Remedy Proceedings and Children Act Proceedings to clients.
• Preparing a case for court hearing, including briefing Counsel and attending to any queries they have.
• Developed strong rapport with clients through excellent communication skills for improved client relations.

I began working within the Residential Conveyancing Department before shortly accepting a role in the Family Department. I progressed further working with the Head of Department completing my CILEX Level 3 qualification. I assisted generally on matters in divorce and finances, children and cohabitation including daily duties such as:

• Drafted client correspondence and attended to clients via telephone.
• Drafted court documents such as divorce applications, Form A and Form E.
• Preparing for court hearings to include preparing the court bundle and drafting the Index.
• Briefing and corresponding with Counsel.
• Corresponding with other side's solicitors.
• Attending court hearings and meetings.
• Generally assisting and aiding the department.

• Moving around departments such as commercial and residential conveyancing, litigation and private client as an apprentice.
• Act as a point of call for clients.
• Aid and assist several solicitors.
• Draft legal correspondence and documents to client.
• Manage the diary systems for solicitors.
• Dealing with frustrated or distressed clients.
• Meet with clients to understand their requirements.
• Built relationships with colleagues to enhance team chemistry.
• Organise social events for the office.