Over the course of the year, we will be spotlighting members of Girlings Solicitors’ team, their backgrounds, roles, and unique perspectives, so you can get to know the people that are working hard for you.
Name: Emma Manley
Office: Canterbury
Job Title: Newly Qualified Assistant Solicitor
1. Can you share three things about you that people might not know?
- In 2010 I ran the London marathon raising over £1,600 for charity
- I play the saxophone and whilst at University I loved playing with the University of Kent Big Band
- I once worked in France running a children’s club
2. What is your favourite ice cream?
I can often be found eating an ice cream at Whitstable. My current favourite is peaches and cream ice cream, with a flake (of course!).
3. Explain the key benefits about the trainee program at Girlings
From the second I walked into Girlings’ Canterbury office for my first interview, the Firm was immediately welcoming. A trainee at Girlings benefits from training with friendly and supportive colleagues throughout.
Girlings has a vast array of practice areas enabling trainees to experience many different areas of law whilst training with the Firm. During my training contract I was able to gain experience in commercial property, residential property, family and private client law. Having this experience allowed me to get a real feel for what I wanted to specialise in ultimately.
I also received good quality and helpful training from Law South as part of my Professional Skills Course setting me up well for my future career as a solicitor.
4. What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
When I am not working I attend regular exercise classes and in the Summer months enjoy cycling. I also love skiing and take any opportunity to get on the slopes!
I also love live music and theatre. Whilst I have been based in Kent I have enjoyed visiting the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury.
5. What advice would you give to someone who is potentially thinking about starting a law training contract?
A career in law is interesting, diverse and ever-changing. Having worked in law for the past six years, no two days have ever been the same. I would advise any prospective trainee solicitor to go for it. In my experience the hard work is completely worth it!
Find out more about Emma here.
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