Two trainees are celebrating after qualifying as solicitors in roles that support clients in planning their affairs.
The duo have completed their training with BHP Law in Darlington and Durham and are ready to meet clients across the firm’s regional network of offices.
Law represents a second career for mother of fourMelanie Morley, who worked in the construction, finance and charities sectors prior to going to Northumbria University to study law. She followed this up with a masters in political and legal theory at York University.
She worked as a paralegal at Gateshead Council in the adult and social care environment, specialising in Court of Protection, the area in which she now works at BHP Law.
Melanie, who volunteers for the Prince’s Trust, mentoring young people in business, law and finance, said: “I was offered a training contract/paralegal position with BHP Law in November 2017 and I have never looked back. My work history has proven to be invaluable, not only in providing specialist sector knowledge but giving me the confidence and determination to succeed in a very competitive profession.”
Holly Naylor started her career in the family team at BHP Law as a paralegal before gaining experience with the personal injury team, managing road traffic, public and employers’ liability cases and assisting with medical negligence work.
She also has experience within the Court of Protection but has qualified into the wills, trusts and probate team, where she drafts wills and powers of attorney, obtains grants of probate, sets up trusts and works with the administration of estates.
Holly is also a Dementia Friends Champion, running free sessions as a volunteer to groups and businesses for them to learn how to be Dementia Friends and encouraging others to make a positive difference to people living with dementia.
Managing partner of BHP Law, John Pratt, said: “We are delighted for Holly and Melanie and are very proud of their achievements. As a regional firm, we are always keen to provide training contract opportunities and to support our trainees to qualify.
“We look forward to seeing our newest qualified solicitors develop their various areas of expertise and careers going forward.”