Sophie Hamer
London
Summary
Ambitious individual with a strong foundation in legal principles and a keen interest in pursuing a career in law. Exhibits exceptional research and analytical abilities, combined with effective conflict management and critical evaluation skills to deliver practical solutions under pressure. Skilled in interpersonal communication, cultural awareness, and ethical decision-making, ensuring client confidentiality and trust are upheld. These competencies have been honed through extensive study, training, and work experience. Eager to contribute to meaningful legal work and support clients with diligence and integrity.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Trainee solicitor
Checketts McKay Law
Alexandra, New Zealand
03.2024 - 05.2024
- Shadowed senior lawyers to understand workloads and case management, gaining hands-on exposure to over 40 cases.
- Devised 15 individualised contracts and legal documents to fulfil bespoke client requirements.
- Participated in client meetings, gaining valuable insight into real-life law practice.
- Maintained open lines of communication between clients and senior solicitors for seamless coordination on over 30 cases.
- Provided administrative support involving file management, correspondence and reception duties.
- Attended court hearings alongside senior solicitors, understanding courtroom procedures thoroughly.
- Liaised with clients to understand their legal needs, providing tailored advice accordingly.
Assistant supervisor
Kelly Club Goldfields
Cromwell, Otago, New Zealand
01.2024 - 03.2024
- Completed child protection and safeguarding courses, strengthening understanding of duty of care and risk assessment.
- Worked closely with parents and staff to address various behavioural, safety, and welfare concerns.
- Developed leadership and organisational skills while managing a fast-paced environment of up to 50 children.
Volunteer Legal Caseworker
Community Law Otago
Dunedin, New Zealand
11.2021 - 06.2022
- Assisted barristers, solicitors, and legal professionals in conducting client interviews, legal research, and drafting legal documents for an average of three of case per day.
- Managed up to 15 case files simultaneously, ensuring accurate documentation and contributing to more efficient case handling, resulting in a 30% reduction in resolution time.
- Conducted client interviews, using strong interpersonal skills and empathy to address concerns with professionalism and care.
- Coordinated over 50 meetings between parties involved in disputes, facilitating constructive resolutions and improving case progression by 20%.
- Leveraged emotional intelligence and cultural competency to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all clients, resulting in 100% client satisfaction.
Show home host
Milestone Homes
Dunedin, New Zealand
09.2018 - 09.2021
- Managed visitor interactions, creating a professional, welcoming environment.
- Demonstrated polite and enthusiastic phone manner to take orders and handle guest queries.
- Greeted and directed up to 30 visitors per week, creating a welcoming first impression and fostering positive experiences.
- Represented the company and promoted its brand by providing excellent customer service, contributing to a 15% increase in sales enquiries.
Office administration
Health and Disability Auditing Australia
Brisbane, Australia
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Managed administrative tasks, including creating spreadsheets, handling phone and email correspondence, and organising documents, requiring attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
Education
Bachelor of Laws and Arts - Politics
University of Otago
03.2018 - 06.2023
Specialised Postgraduate Course (SQE Equivalent) - Professional Legal Studies
Institute of Professional Legal Studies
Dunedin, New Zealand 02.2023 - 07.2023
Skills
- Legal Research & Writing
- Client Advocacy & Relationship Management
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Project & Caseload Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Cultural Awareness & Sensitivity
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Languages
Te reo Māori
Upper intermediate
Accomplishments
- Led Columba College’s Cancer Society initiative as the head volunteer and was recognised as the winner of the High School Daffodil Day Fundraising Challenge, 2017
- Volunteered at Abbeyfield Retirement Home, providing support and companionship to residents, 2016 - 2017
- Served as a Peer Support Leader in Year 13, assisting peers with academic and personal development, 2017
TRAINING & AWARDS
- Westlaw and Lexis Certification
- Trusts and Blended Families Forum, New Zealand, 2024
- Highest grade in NCEA Level 3 English, South Island, New Zealand, 2017
- Residential Property Sale and Purchase Update Conference, New Zealand, 2024
PROGRAMME PROFICIENCIES
- APLYiD
- FilePro
- OneLaw
- Microsoft Office 365 - Teams, PowerPoint, Office, Excel, OneNote, Publisher, OneDrive
- SalesForce
- Survey Monkey
- LEAP
- SharePoint
Timeline
Trainee solicitor
Checketts McKay Law
03.2024 - 05.2024
Assistant supervisor
Kelly Club Goldfields
01.2024 - 03.2024
Specialised Postgraduate Course (SQE Equivalent) - Professional Legal Studies
Institute of Professional Legal Studies
02.2023 - 07.2023
Volunteer Legal Caseworker
Community Law Otago
11.2021 - 06.2022
Show home host
Milestone Homes
09.2018 - 09.2021
Bachelor of Laws and Arts - Politics
University of Otago
03.2018 - 06.2023
Office administration
Health and Disability Auditing Australia
01.2015 - 01.2019
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