Laura Dobson, Clark Mairs Newcastle
What is your name and which area of the law do you work in?
Laura Dobson. I’m a property lawyer dealing with both residential and commercial property.
Did you always envisage a career in the industry?
I have to be honest and say no. My high school was an arts college, very dance and drama driven, and I was already part of a local drama group run from my high school before I started! It massively boosted my confidence as a teenager, so think it all set me up for where I am today. When it came to choosing what to study at University, whilst I was certain a career in the Arts wasn’t for me, I had no idea what was! I think it was my head of sixth form who had discussed options and mentioned law, so I thought why not try it (as if it was going to be a doddle!). I told my parents, who were supportive as always, got accepted on to the University course and didn’t look back.
What has been your career path so far?
After passing my A Levels, I left home and moved to Newcastle to study law degree at Northumbria University. I graduated after four years at University in 2015 and was lucky to secure a paralegal role in the September. I worked hard to prove my worth and was offered a training contract the following April. I qualified as a Solicitor in April 2018 which was when I joined Clarke Mairs. The years have flown by so far, long may it continue!
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
I don’t think there are any stand out ‘big’ challenges, but I do remember when I was training to be a solicitor, I gave a talk to a group of around 15-20 people on Probate and why it is important to have your affairs in order. It was nerve wracking but I received great feedback afterwards. Just generally, every week brings different challenges, both legal and personal! As cliché as it may sound, I’m proud of every challenge I overcome, no matter how big or small.
Who do you most respect in your industry ?
Those that have helped me get to where I am so far – there isn’t one specific person. I also feel very lucky and truly respect the team I have around me now. Which fictional lawyer would you most like to meet? I’d love to spend the day with Harvey Specter. He has a great office, in New York, and makes it look quite easy so I’m interested to know how he does it!
What is your greatest strength?
I have two, if that’s allowed! First I would say is my willingness to learn. Since joining Clarke Mairs I’ve learned so much, been exposed to a variety of work and whilst it has been very challenging, I feel I’ve given everything a go and taken it head on as best I can. Second my friendly approachable manner, whether that be with colleagues or clients.. I hope it comes across anyway!
What is your biggest weakness?
This is always a tricky question to answer, but I think my lack of self-confidence and overthinking. It sets me back sometimes, but I’m working on that.
What are your remaining career aspirations?
Thankfully it’s still very early days in my career and I’m still enjoying exposure to new work all of the time but I aspire to manage a small team of my own one day, if I’m lucky enough. How do you see your industry evolving in the next 10 years? We all know the law is going to change…but taking a different approach, I’m hoping the industry will continue to be more diverse and more accessible. It’s great to see that women are taking leading roles in the industry, and as a woman…long may it continue!
