Vanessa is a Trainee Solicitor and is gaining experience in four different areas of law prior to qualifying as a Solicitor in November 2013. Vanessa works under the close supervision of a nominated Partner and offers clients a more cost-effective option for legal advice.

CAREER HISTORY: I studied English at the University of Leicester, graduating in 1999 before spending 7 years in the Army as a Royal Signals Officer.  I completed the Graduate Diploma in Law and the Legal Practice Course at UWE before joining Trethowans in November 2011.

AWAY FROM THE OFFICE:  I am married and have two young children.  I like to swim, run and enjoy the outdoors with my family and dogs.  I also like to read and enjoy cooking and entertaining.  My aspiration is to go travelling once I find time between my job and family needs!

WHY CHOSE TRETHOWANS:  It had everything I wanted in a firm.  It is not a huge firm but at the same time is big enough to attract big clients and exciting and varied work.  I think it strikes a really good balance between the corporate work and the private client type work.  The fact that Trethowans excelled across the board was really appealing.  It is a forward thinking and progressive firm that truly appeared to believe in investing in their trainees with a view to keeping them on after the training contract. 

FAVOURITE FILM: True Romance (or anything else with Brad Pitt in it!)

FIRST JOB: A barmaid in a village pub. First proper job was as a troop commander in the Army.

HERO: My heroes are(!) – all the guys and girls who return from Afghanistan seriously injured (often limbless) who pick themselves up, refuse to be negative and get on with their careers or campaigning / fundraising for their colleagues still serving. Teaches us all a lesson!

IDEAL HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Somewhere you can both relax or be active if you want. South Africa is a perfect example.

MARMITE: Easy – LOVE IT!