In our latest edition of Realm Talks To…, we caught up with Claire Edwards, Residential Conveyancer at Ackroyd Legal. In the interview, Claire talks to us about her career biggest inspirations, explains how she starts her day and gives an insight into what she does outside of work.
How do you usually start your working day?
I start my working week with a cup of tea. I can’t function without a cuppa. Apart from turning on my PC and logging on to my emails, making a cup of tea is the first thing I do when I get into the office.
At what age did you decide that the law was for you?
A part of me has always been drawn to law from an early age. Especially when I started to study it for my A-levels, I really enjoyed it. I volunteered in different solicitors’ firms when I was studying and I absolutely loved it. My dad is a magistrate and my brother is a policeman so my family have always had an interest one way or another.
What’s been the proudest moment of your career so far?
I have 2 proudest moments: one is graduating in Westminster, London after studying the GDL and LPC at the University of Law in Chester, in front of my mum and dad. The second is qualifying as a Solicitor. I decided to work and study at the same time so it’s taken me longer than most to qualify and I can honestly say that it’s one of the most rewarding achievements!
Who’s the biggest inspiration in your career?
My dad has always been my biggest inspiration. He’s the hardest worker I have ever known and from being little he has taught me the value not only of achieving my goals but personal value too, which is so important. He taught me that I was good enough and that I could achieve anything, as long as I worked hard for it.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in the law?
My advice would be that if you really want a career in law, just go for it. Work hard because it will all be worth it in the end. Once you’ve qualified, you will understand what all the blood, sweat and tears were for.
What are you most looking forward to doing now that lockdown is lifting?
Now that lockdown is lifting, I can’t wait to spend quality time with friends and family. I’ve missed them so much!
Do you prefer a night in or a night out?
Definitely a night in with my partner, Pete. Cuddling up with our Staffordshire Bull Terrier called Angel and our three black cats called Dolly, Binx and Salem. We’d probably be binge-watching something on Netflix, with a takeaway Chinese and a bottle of red wine.
What TV show are you currently bingeing?
We’ve binge-watched so many programmes on Netflix this past year, I honestly don’t think we have anything left to watch at the moment. We can’t wait for the final season of Ozark though! We absolutely love that show!
About Claire Edwards
Claire Edwards is a Residential Conveyancer at Ackroyd Legal.
Claire has over 10 years of experience in the legal industry working for some of the best law firms in the country. Having previously worked for the likes of JMW and Scott Rees, Claire has now gone onto join Ackroyd Legal.
