From Paralegal to Chartered Legal Executive: My Journey So Far

In November 2024, I qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive at Feldon Dunsmore Solicitors - a milestone that marked the culmination of years of study, dedication, and hands-on legal experience. Having spent a significant part of my career working as a paralegal, the transition has been both rewarding and eye-opening.

Working as a paralegal gave me a really good grounding. I learned how to manage files, support clients, and understand how a legal case comes together from start to finish. It was a steep learning curve at times, but it gave me the confidence to take that next step towards qualification.

Since becoming a Chartered Legal Executive, I’ve taken on more responsibility, but thanks to the training and support I had from Feldon Dunsmore, the transition felt really smooth. It wasn’t a huge jump — more like a natural step forward. I already had a solid understanding of the work, and having supportive colleagues around me made the move into this new role feel comfortable and manageable.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about continuing to grow in my role and take on new challenges. There’s always more to learn in this profession, and I’m keen to keep developing my skills and progressing in my career. One thing that’s stayed the same throughout — whether I was a paralegal or now as a Chartered Legal Executive — is my commitment to providing excellent service. Supporting clients and achieving the best possible outcomes for them is the most rewarding part of the job, and that focus never changes, no matter your title.

The journey from paralegal to Chartered Legal Executive hasn’t always been easy — it required perseverance, balancing study alongside full-time work and adapting to evolving responsibilities - but it has absolutely been worth it. I hope my path shows that there are multiple routes into law and that determination and passion for the profession are just as important as any traditional pathway.

I'm excited for what lies ahead in this next chapter of my legal career.