To celebrate 25 years since qualifying as a Solicitor, Cherise has written a special four-part series reflecting on her journey in law. From the childhood experiences that inspired her passion for family law and dispute resolution, to memorable moments in practice and her role mentoring the next generation, each article offers a personal insight into life as a Solicitor. Join us over the coming weeks as we share Cherise’s reflections on a career dedicated to helping clients through life’s most challenging moments.
Reflecting on 25 Years as a Solicitor in Family Law and Dispute Resolution
This month marks the 25th anniversary of my qualification as a Solicitor. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a Solicitor (apart from a brief desire at age 10 to be an Archaeologist!)
There are several factors in my life which influenced my desire to specialise in family law and dispute resolution. My parents separated when I was very young, and, unfortunately, they became embroiled in extensive court proceedings that ended in the court determining I should live with my mother, and my siblings with my father. This was the late 70’s, and from my experience in practice, separating siblings is not usual.
I had a desire growing up to ‘understand’ the legal decisions made in my own childhood, and my passion for practising family law has always been to help my clients through one of the most traumatic times in their lives. From the positive feedback I have had and the lasting relationships I have made with clients over the years, as I look back over my career, I know I have achieved this.
My second driving force to specialise in this area was the Hillsborough disaster. As a family, we have held season tickets at Anfield for over 40 years (we are all from Weymouth!) I was 16 at the time, and the tragedy affected my family and friends. Again, I wanted to ‘understand’ and in my university studies and early career, I focused on personal injury and ‘litigation’ generally. I have come full circle in this respect, and I am lucky enough at my current firm, Nantes, of which I am a director, to have a varied caseload, and I deal with all forms of dispute resolution from landlord and tenant, property disputes to inheritance disputes. It all stemmed, however, from my childhood experiences and desire in my career to ‘help’ clients.
Although I have a while to go before I can retire, it is now my pleasure to also be the Training Principal at Nantes, and to see the trainees start their careers and to help them determine what area of law they want to specialise in. I love my job, I have had a varied and interesting 25 years in practice, and I am fortunate that the last 9 years of this have been with Nantes. I am not sure I can say “here’s to the next 25 years”, but I will continue to help as many people as I can, both clients and employees, for as long as possible!
Need Support with Family Law or Dispute Resolution?
Whether you are facing challenges in family matters, property disputes, or inheritance issues, our team is here to help. With offices in Bridport, Dorchester, Weymouth, and Portland, you can contact us today on 01305 771000 to speak with a member of our experienced team.
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