“I grew up in a single parent family on a council estate. Mum was on benefits. I went to a state primary and secondary school. I worked since I was 13 to support my education, and did the same when I went to university.
I always remember saying ‘I’m going to be a lawyer’. I just set my heart on it. I thought I don’t need to go to a private school or a red brick university. Ultimately it’s about my desire and motivation to get where I want to get. Going into the profession is quite a big leap of faith if you haven’t got that financial support, but I wanted to make a difference to people.
No day is ever the same. There are challenges you face on a daily basis, but you never forget the reason why you’re doing the job and that’s obviously to get justice for victims of crime.
I moved to Manchester to get a job on qualification, then moved back to Herefordshire to be with family and joined the Civil Service and became a deputy chief working for the Crown Prosecution Service. I like being near the Malvern Hills and being close to the city, so I’ve got the best of both worlds. And ultimately it’s where I’d like to see my child grow up too.
My eyes have been opened since I joined the Civil Service to the opportunities that are there for you as someone under 18 without necessarily going the traditional route. We offer start up roles in a variety of professions and provide training contracts to those looking to start their career in law. Go and visit courts. Go and visit where you’d like to work and find out how people got into the jobs they’re in. Just be curious and have those conversations.”