An Interview with Solicitor of the Year - Katie Smith

❖ What does it mean to you to win Solicitor of the Year?

It means an awful lot to win this award, and I was surprised and delighted to receive it! The pro bono work we do at our teaching law firm is so important for our clients and our student volunteers - to have this recognised through winning this award is a real privilege. I couldn't do the work that I do without the student volunteers, my colleagues, and the support of the University. I am grateful to them all for supporting me in the role!

❖ What changes would you like to see in the profession?

Like many practitioners, I want to see better access to justice through increased Government funding. The cuts to legal aid in 2014 have had a huge impact on this, and it is something that needs to be addressed.

❖ Do you think there are barriers to entry in the profession?

I think unfortunately, barriers do still exist. At our firm we are conscious of this, and work hard to try and break them down by providing equal opportunities to all of our student volunteers.

❖ Pro bono work is very important to you, what inspired you to launch a new pro bono family law service?

I worked with NLS Legal on a voluntary basis for a number of years, but I was limited in the work I did there as I had another role within the Law School. The work I did during that time gave me real insight into the huge unmet need in our community, for help with family law matters. It is also an area of law that our students enjoy, and are keen to work and gain experience in. I was motivated by both of those things and decided to move back into a practice based role, so I could establish the service and help more people.

❖ Where do you see yourself in 5 years' time?

I do have a few ideas of what I'd like to do with the service in the future, but my main hope is that it will continue to grow, and help those who most need it.

❖ Do you have any goals you would like to achieve in your career?

I am happy with what I do as it is so rewarding! I consider myself lucky to be able to dedicate my practice to pro bono work. If I can continue to help people, give students a great experience (and hopefully motivate them to become the family practitioners of the future), I'll be happy!

❖ What else do you enjoy outside of the law and is it easy to have a work/life balance?

I am a parent to my young daughter, and I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy travelling, music and going to pubs! It's all the small things for me...