Maisie's Diary.

The Diary of a Trainee Solicitor: February 2025, Entry 3 - Imposter Syndrome.

As I write this third entry, I can’t help but wonder - where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday we were ringing in the New Year, and now, here we are in February. January rushed by in a blur - packed with hearings, paperwork, and a particularly enlightening financial remedies seminar. There was no room for the typical “January Blues” because as soon as January 2nd arrived, it was full steam ahead. The pace has definitely picked up, and every week seems to raise the stakes just a little bit higher.

As I dive deeper into the legal world, I’m noticing a shift in more than just the workload - but my mindset too. The early excitement of the new year has given way to a solid, determined focus. I’m more committed than ever to embracing larger challenges and tackling them with precision and skill.

One of the standout moments of January was attending a Financial Remedies Seminar in Bristol, alongside Nick Dudman as part of our matrimonial finance team. Held at the beautiful Harbour Hotel by Albion Chambers, the event was a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the sharpest minds in the field. The keynote speaker was Sir Nicholas Mostyn, a towering figure in family law whose contributions have shaped many of the precedents we rely on today. Throughout the day, the barristers from Albion Chambers covered a wide range of topics - from Freezing Orders and Enforcement of Orders to the complexities of the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA). It was like a masterclass in financial dispute resolution, and I soaked up every bit of it.

What made the day even more special was having my mother, Tracey Rodford, travel down from London to attend the seminar as well. As a fellow family lawyer, she has always been one of my biggest inspirations, so sharing this experience with her felt like a full-circle moment. It was a reminder of how far I’ve come - but also of how much there is still to learn. With exams ahead and plenty more challenges to tackle, this was just another step in the journey, but it felt like a significant one.

But that moment of reflection also brought up an emotion I suspect many trainees - and even seasoned professionals experience: imposter syndrome. It’s easy to feel like you’re out of your depth as a trainee, especially when surrounded by such experienced solicitors and barristers. I often found myself questioning whether I’m articulate enough, whether my vocabulary is up to par, or if I measure up at all - particularly since I didn’t study law at university.

Though I work in a small firm where I don’t feel lost in the crowd, events like the Financial Remedies seminar still push me out of my comfort zone, and that’s when those feelings of self-doubt bubble up.

But the moments of insecurity don’t last long. They’re counterbalanced by experiences that reinforce my belief in myself. For instance, in January, I had the chance to attend a Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) Hearing for a particularly complex case that had been a major focus of my work. The lead-up to an FDR is always demanding, but this particular case required a significant amount of preparation and attention to detail. When the hearing arrived, we received a far more favourable outcome than we had hoped for, allowing us to settle the case right then and there. It was incredibly rewarding to see the client so pleased and stepping out of court to sunshine and blue skies felt like the perfect ending to a hard-fought case.

These kinds of moments far outweigh any feelings of insecurity. I played a big role in this case, and at times I questioned whether I was capable of handling such responsibility. But, when the results speak for themselves, it’s clear that the effort - and the doubts - were all worth it.

Upon reflection, I’ve realised that imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of weakness - it’s a sign that you care. It means you’re pushing yourself, striving for improvement, and working toward excellence. I’m learning to silence that inner voice of doubt by focusing on what I do know, rather than what I don’t. Each day brings new lessons, and with them, more confidence in my abilities. Confidence doesn’t stem from never doubting yourself - it comes from consistently showing up, putting in the work, and realising that growth happens in moments of discomfort.

So, while I know that imposter syndrome might not disappear overnight, I’m choosing to reframe it. Instead of seeing it as proof that I don’t belong, I’m viewing it as confirmation that I’m exactly where I need to be - learning, evolving, and carving my place in this profession.

This year is shaping up to be one of the toughest yet. I have my SQE 1 exam this summer, and every spare moment I have is dedicated to studying. It’s going to be challenging, but I’m determined to give it my all.

Maisie Rodford, X. 
P.S. You can read my first and second Diary entries below.

The Diary of a Trainee Solicitor: October 2024, Entry 2 - Three months in!

Now three months into my legal career at Rundlewalker, I’m starting to see the profession from a whole new perspective. What once felt overwhelming is beginning to feel more manageable, and my initial fears have shifted into a growing sense of confidence. I’ve been trusted with tasks that I wouldn’t have imagined doing just a few weeks ago - like drafting key documents or meeting with clients by myself. The adrenaline of racing to meet deadlines or prepping for hearings hasn’t disappeared, but now it comes with a sense of purpose and progress.

With each challenge, I’ve discovered new strengths within myself, particularly the ability to remain calm amidst the chaos. I’m honing the skill of navigating the ebbs and flows - the swings and roundabouts of the job, learning that flexibility and a positive mindset are crucial. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of being adaptable. Though some days have me questioning my future plans - let’s just say working in family law has put me off marriage and having children for a while – my commitment to this field continues to grow exponentially.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting a lot on the delicate balance that solicitors must strike between supporting clients and setting realistic boundaries - an essential aspect of this role that I’m beginning to appreciate more deeply. Clients are often investing substantial fees into legal services, leading many to feel entitled to specific outcomes. This expectation can stem from viewing their financial commitment as a guarantee of success or a means of influence over their case. However, legal realities can differ significantly from these expectations. While there is a natural pressure to meet client desires, I’m observing it is vital to avoid overpromising or compromising the integrity of the legal process.

At the end of the day, solicitors must work off client instructions, but they also have the responsibility and legal duty to guide them toward realistic outcomes. This can be particularly challenging when working with passionate clients, who may resist any perspective that doesn’t align with their hopes. Of course, solicitors strive for the best possible outcome for their clients, but that best outcome might not always match the client’s ideal. It’s up to the solicitor to communicate this effectively, delivering honest assessments while also cushioning the impact of hard truths, which often requires adapting the approach based on the individual client.

This dynamic is further highlighted when examining the often vastly different relationships between clients and barristers. I have witnessed firsthand how the solicitor - client relationship differs sharply from the client's relationship with counsel, particularly during client conferences I attended at counsel's chambers in Bristol or when counsel and clients are in side rooms on court hearing days discussing outcomes. A barrister, often meeting the client for the first time, can approach cases with a level of detachment, assessing the issues with the directness that a judge might apply. Unlike solicitors, who build ongoing relationships with their clients, a barrister's role is less about gently managing expectations and more about presenting a blunt, practical assessment of the case’s strengths and weaknesses. Watching counsel provide these insights was eye-opening - there’s a straightforward honesty in their approach that can be more challenging to incorporate into the solicitor-client relationship, where managing a long-term rapport is significant. These experiences have underscored for me that one of the most valuable skills for a solicitor is learning to manage this balance between being responsive and being realistic.

Over the recent weeks I have delved deeper into other areas of family law, Children Act work and the stark contrasts between this area and divorce and financial proceedings are vast. In financial proceedings matters, the court's approach is primarily rooted in objective analysis rather than narrative or emotional considerations. Judges focus on tangible figures and financial contributions throughout the marriage, aiming to achieve a fair and equitable distribution of assets that meets the parties' needs. The court’s goal is to facilitate each party's transition into independent living, often factoring in how to support any young children involved, while minimising the emotional entanglements that typically accompany the dissolution of a relationship. In this context, emotional narratives or personal justifications for desired outcomes are largely sidelined; the court prioritizes concrete financial realities to determine the most equitable solutions. While emotions undoubtedly influence the dynamics outside the courtroom, it is the solicitor’s responsibility to manage these sentiments effectively, ensuring that clients remain grounded in the financial implications of their cases.

In stark contrast, Children Act proceedings are deeply rooted in the intricacies of human relationships and behaviours. The conduct of the parties is not just a peripheral concern; it is often central to the case. Issues of parental responsibility, contact arrangements, and the overall welfare of the child are inextricably linked to how each parent interacts with the other and their respective capabilities to provide a nurturing environment. This makes the emotional landscape much more complex and charged to navigate as a solicitor. Each case presents an opportunity to observe these dynamics in action, and I look forward to deepening my understanding of the interplay between law and emotion in family matters.

Oh, and let’s not forget the small matter of studying 14 hours a week for my SQE on top of this whirlwind of work - because who needs free time, right? Despite the challenges, I’m embracing this busy period as an incredible opportunity for growth. With every client interaction and new case I tackle, I’m building the skills and resilience I need to thrive in this profession. I’m excited about what lies ahead and committed to making the most of every moment on this journey. Here’s to more learning, more challenges, and the rewarding path that awaits!
Maisie Rodford, X. 
P.S. You can read my first Diary entry below.

The Diary of a Trainee Solicitor: August 2024, Entry 1 - The Beginning of My Legal Journey!

As I reflect on my first six weeks in the legal world, it feels like I’m balancing on the edge of exhilaration and a healthy dose of “what have I gotten myself into?”

Growing up with a mother who’s a passionate solicitor, I saw firsthand the immense dedication and perseverance required for this career, as well as the many ways it can be incredibly rewarding. Her fervour for the law - especially in the realm of family matters - was so contagious that it made a career in law an almost irresistible option. Meanwhile, whilst my two sisters veer off into vocational careers, I was always the academic type, destined to trade in textbooks for legal briefs.

Not only did I witness my mother’s remarkable legal journey, but I also experienced firsthand the complexities of family law through my own parents' divorce. The profound impact of their separation on my life has significantly shaped my desire to pursue a career in law, with a particular focus on family law. The challenges and transformations I endured have deeply influenced my commitment to helping others navigate similar situations, reinforcing my resolve to make a meaningful impact in this field.

Graduating from Exeter University in July with a degree in Sociology and Criminology gave me a solid understanding of human behaviour and societal structures. But stepping into the world of law has been a bit like diving into new, uncharted waters - exciting, challenging, and occasionally overwhelming. As a non-law graduate, I was concerned about how I would handle this transition, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much I’m learning and growing.

I’m thrilled to have joined Rundlewalker, a firm that’s already proven to be a fantastic place to grow. I feel incredibly lucky to have landed this role so soon after finishing my degree, especially in a firm where the lawyers are not only exceptionally skilled and dedicated but also seem to have mastered the elusive art of work-life balance. This balance is often the stuff of legend when discussing legal careers and seeing it in action here is both inspiring and reassuring.

In these early days, I’ve learned that being a trainee solicitor involves much more than just legal knowledge. It’s about adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm, understanding the intricacies of a client's individual needs, and finding my place within a profession that demands both precision and empathy.

One of the most intriguing challenges is grappling with the legal language. Words that seem straightforward in everyday English take on entirely different meanings in the legal world. Navigating this complex vocabulary has been an eye-opener and highlights just one of the hurdles on this journey.

One of the highlights so far has been my debut in court as a trainee solicitor. It was like jumping into the deep end of the legal pool, and I loved every minute of it! The experience was thrilling and enlightening, offering a real taste of courtroom dynamics and the adrenaline of legal practice. This exciting foray into court has only fuelled my passion for the field and confirmed that I’m on the right path. Every new experience, including this memorable courtroom adventure, adds to my enthusiasm and drives me to embrace each challenge with gusto.

I’ve come to appreciate that law isn’t merely about wielding a legal dictionary; it’s about becoming a skilled communicator who can interpret both the letter of the law and the nuances of human emotion. The job involves thriving in an environment where the stakes are high, deadlines are relentless, and coffee becomes your best friend. I’ve also learned the importance of flexibility and adaptability - whether it’s pivoting quickly in response to new information or balancing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Amidst all these challenges, I’m discovering the profound satisfaction of making a tangible difference in people’s lives. This sense of purpose makes every hurdle worth the leap, and it keeps me motivated as I navigate this exciting and demanding path.

I have now begun studying for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam, which I hope will pave the way to qualifying as a solicitor by the summer of 2026. Balancing work and study is a challenge that both excites and intimidates me, but I’m eager to embark on this journey. My mother often reassures me that all the effort will be worth it in the end, and I believe many lawyers would agree that despite its relentless demands, a career in law is ultimately profoundly rewarding.

Over the coming weeks and months, I hope to share my experiences - the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and the challenges faced. This diary serves not only as a chronicle of my journey but also as a reflection on the transition from a non-law graduate to a trainee solicitor, and eventually, to a fully qualified solicitor. As I continue to grow in this role, I aim to provide insights that might resonate with others who are starting their own legal careers or contemplating this path.
Maisie Rodford, X.

Maisie has recently joined the firm as a Trainee Solicitor after graduating in July 2024 from Exeter University where she studied Sociology & Criminology. She will undertake her Solicitors Qualifying Exams in July 2025 and January 2026 with the intention of becoming a fully qualified solicitor in the summer of 2026. Maisie has now embarked on her SQE studies and is eager to pursue a career specialising in Family Law once qualified.
 
Outside of the office, Maisie enjoys walking, reading, and eating out!