Kelsey Faulkner: My First Month at Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors
Following my search for a role that would help me to evolve within family law, and help to further my career aspirations, I joined Bell Lamb and Joynson in March 2021. During my first day, I spent time with managing partner, Mike Leeman, who gave me a complete run-down on how to use the firm’s software and gadgets. I had never been able to obtain a client’s signature digitally before – which is something I was far too excited about.
Due to the circumstances of the current pandemic, and in addition to Bell Lamb and Joynson’s agile working kits, I have spent one day per week in the office since joining. The firm has really encouraged firm-wide communication using Microsoft Teams, which has helped all of the new starters communicate and get to know one another – the use of gifs is actively encouraged.
Since joining, I have been fortunate enough to make use of the firm’s office in Runcorn, in addition to the Liverpool office. Having the benefit of working from numerous office bases affords the team to work with clients throughout the North West, which is of particular use to the family department – being able to represent client’s against various Local Authorities.
As a family paralegal I have taken on my own caseload of matters within both public and private law proceedings, to include pre-proceedings, care proceedings, private child arrangement matters, domestic violence, and divorce.
The wider team and partners have actively encouraged me to further my advocacy skills within private law proceedings, attend conferences, and represent client’s during pre-proceedings meetings.
Whilst I have been afforded the opportunity to take on my own caseload – there is never a day where I fail to ask questions. Whether this be to the partners, or our other family paralegal’s, there is always somebody on hand to help, no matter how small the question.
In spite of the pandemic, I have found the team to be really sociable. The family team have bi-weekly ‘catch up’ meetings, and the firm has plans to hold a celebration to commemorate it’s 200 years in business since its establishment in 1821!