Izzy D

Profile:

I am currently a solicitor in the Hempsons Employment team having completed my training contract in 2023. I was always interested in law, but decided to complete a degree in Theology before pursuing a career in law. I chose to qualify into employment law, as I really enjoyed the variety of work and the fact that it develops and changes at such a pace.

Whilst applying for training contracts, I soon realised that being a first generation lawyer made it slightly more challenging. I slowly began to gain more work experience by getting involved in pro bono opportunities available at University. I also realised that through my other non-legal part time jobs I was able to approach people who were solicitors/barristers and asked everyone for advice and even got some work experience by doing this! At first, I was reluctant to declare my disability as I thought it would be seen as a disadvantage and I became disheartened after submitting so many applications. However, I soon realised that this was the wrong approach for me, I did the necessary adjustments to be made prior to interview.

Diversity in the legal profession for me is about making everyone feel welcome and widening opportunities. If you have any questions then feel free to get in touch I’ll be more than happy to answer all your questions.

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