I Got Hired: Victoria

Posted on: 15 November 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Victoria is a Class of 2024 LLB Law graduate now working at PCD Solicitors as a Legal Assistant.

How did you hear about your role?

Like many law graduates, I started my legal career as a Legal Assistant at a well-established city centre law firm, eager to gain experience and work my way toward a training contract. While the role gave me valuable insight into the day-to-day workings of a legal practice, I soon realised it wasn’t aligned with the kind of qualifying experience I needed and that opportunities for progression would be limited in such a competitive environment.

Rather than waiting for the right opportunity to come to me, I decided to take the initiative and seek out a role that offered more meaningful legal exposure and room for growth. After plenty of research (and a lot of scrolling on Indeed!), I came across a position at PCD Solicitors. What stood out to me was the firm’s specialised area of law, which really piqued my interest, and the potential to take on more responsibility in a close-knit, growing team.

Joining PCD has been a pivotal step in my journey. I'm now gaining hands-on legal experience, contributing to a dynamic business, and continuing to build toward my long-term goal of qualifying as a solicitor.

How did you get where you are now?

When I was interviewed for my current role, I immediately felt that my goals and values aligned with those of the firm. Since joining PCD Solicitors, I’ve been fortunate to receive incredible support and encouragement that has helped me realise my potential. I’ve been trusted with responsibilities I never expected so early in my career.

The firm places real value on developing talent from the ground up, which is exactly what graduates need to thrive in today’s legal landscape. In just 4-5 months, I’ve progressed to taking on work that closely mirrors the responsibilities of a solicitor and I am now due to start my SQE in September.

Your favourite experience as part of your current role?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my current role has been the opportunity to attend Crown Courts across the country. These experiences not only break up the routine of office work, but also make the role feel incredibly real and impactful. Being ‘on the ground’ allows me to see barristers in action, build stronger connections with clients, and gain a deeper, first-hand understanding of the legal system. It’s a hands-on experience that brings everything I’ve studied to life and reminds me why I pursued a career in law in the first place.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

The most challenging part of my graduate journey has been breaking into the legal industry in the first place. There’s no doubt that entry-level roles often come with high expectations. Many require one or even two years of prior legal experience, which can be difficult to gain without already being in the profession. This creates a barrier for many graduates who are eager to learn but need someone to give them that first real opportunity. I’m grateful to have found a firm that values potential and is willing to invest in early-career professionals.

What's your #1 piece of advice for future grads?

Get involved with legal work as early as possible. Whether it’s volunteering at your local law firm or participating in the university’s law clinic, these experiences are incredibly valuable. Not only do they help build your CV, but they also provide essential skills and give you great talking points for future interviews.

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