At Kidwells Solicitors, we pride ourselves on supporting our team at every stage of their legal careers. Caitlin’s journey with us is a testament to the power of ambition, perseverance, and a supportive working environment.
From Secretary to Solicitor
Caitlin joined Kidwells in January 2022 as a part-time legal secretary while completing the final year of her Law and Criminology degree. After graduating, she moved into a full-time role, progressing to paralegal by the end of that same year.
With a clear focus on her future, Caitlin began studying for her LPC and Master’s degree while continuing to work full-time. In January 2024, she began her training contract, and by 2025 she had qualified as a solicitor.
“Once I started working at Kidwells, I realised law was something I wanted to study further – and I’ve just progressed from there!”
Staying Motivated While Studying and Working
Juggling full-time work with part-time postgraduate study is no easy feat, but Caitlin found a rhythm that worked for her. The flexibility of online study allowed her to manage her time effectively, fitting her academic commitments around work and her social life.
She credits her peers, many of whom were also training to become solicitors, with helping her stay motivated.
“It was challenging, but having the support of friends going through similar experiences really helped us push each other along.”
Progression into a Fee-Earning Role
Caitlin’s transition from support staff to a fee-earner was a natural progression. Her role gradually became more client-facing and focused, particularly in Family and Criminal law – areas in which she now specialises.
“It wasn’t a huge overnight change, but rather a gradual transition as I gained more experience and confidence.”
Key Lessons from Her Training Contract
Over the course of her training, Caitlin developed a strong understanding of client care, particularly in high-stress or emotionally charged situations.
“Every case is different. It’s vital to assess the best approach from the outset and continue to evaluate it throughout – especially when clients are going through some of the toughest times in their lives.”
Support and Mentorship at Kidwells
Throughout her journey, Caitlin received continual support from the team at Kidwells. She was encouraged to take on new opportunities, apply her learning to real-life cases, and gain experience across a broad range of matters.
“Kidwells pushed me to grow – not just in theory, but by helping me apply my knowledge in practice.”
She also highlights the mentorship of Abby and Michael as being particularly valuable, especially when attending court hearings and police stations during her training.
A Milestone Achievement
Caitlin names her qualification as a solicitor as her proudest moment so far at Kidwells – a recognition of the hard work and determination she has put into her legal career over the past few years.
Looking Ahead
Now a fully qualified solicitor, Caitlin is excited to continue building on her experience, with a particular passion for both Family and Criminal law.
“I enjoy the variety and the challenge of both areas, so I couldn’t choose between them. I’m just looking forward to developing my skills further and helping clients in meaningful ways.”
As for her future at Kidwells, Caitlin is focused on seizing every opportunity and continuing to grow within the firm.
Words of Advice
Reflecting on her journey, Caitlin has one key piece of advice for those starting out:
“All of the work and studying will be worth it in the end – and have more confidence in what you know!”
Looking back, Caitlin says it feels like she only just started at Kidwells – but she recognises the scale of her achievement and how far she has come in just a few years.
“I think I underestimate it sometimes, but it really is a big achievement.”