Leah Duffield - Partner in the private client team at Muckle LLP.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
I studied English Literature with Writing and Performance at the University of York, and whilst I enjoyed my degree enormously, it didn’t leave me with any clear route into work. Towards the end of my degree, I did work experience at a law firm and at a school, with a view to picking between education and law. I enjoyed both but ultimately decided to pursue law.
I still have a passion for education, which I feed by training junior staff and guest lecturing in local schools, colleges and universities.
What are the most common legal issues people seek advice on, and how do you help them?
I deal with wills, estate administration, lasting powers of attorney, court of protection and succession planning. This provides a lot of variety and every day looks different. The current hot topic is the Budget and the implications of pensions changes and losing 100% business and agricultural relief. Clients are starting to think seriously about gifting wealth to the next generation and I can help support them through that process.
What are the biggest misconceptions people have about solicitors and the legal system?
I still have some prospective clients who are shocked that they can ring me directly. I think there is a perception that there is a gateway to legal services and you have a pay a toll to get through the door, like getting through a doctor’s receptionist to speak to a doctor. I am always happy for people to email or call to have a conversation about what they need.
What advice would you give to someone facing a legal dispute?
The first thing I often tell people is to take a breath. It is OK to pause and take stock of the situation before taking any action. Clients need responsive and proactive legal representatives, but there is great value in taking a moment at the start to fully understand the circumstances and agree a way forward that they are comfortable with.
How do you handle the emotional and ethical challenges of your job?
I often meet clients at points of challenge in their lives, whether it’s a big life change, a bereavement or planning for what will happen when they die. It is important to be kind and empathic, and focus on what I can do to help. I can’t take away their pain, but I can take the legal worries off their plate. I try and focus on what I can do, rather than what I can’t do.
What impact has technology had on the legal industry, and how do you see it evolving?
As technology, and adoption of that technology, has evolved, the geographical limitations for working for clients has decreased and I find myself working for clients across the country. I still love a face-to-face meeting though!
The growth of AI is a big trend and its legislation and management is both a challenge and an opportunity for the legal sector. Seeing how we navigate that through the coming years is going to be interesting.
What are the key qualities that make a great solicitor?
Being a good listener is fundamental. Solicitors (including myself!) love to speak but before we can advise our clients comprehensively, we need to understand what they need from us. This is particularly pertinent for private client practitioners.
How do you balance client advocacy with legal ethics and professional responsibility?
It takes careful thought and sometimes difficult conversations. Ultimately, it’s about doing the right thing for the client but without compromising our professional obligations. Having supportive colleagues to talk through challenging scenarios is fundamental to keeping the balance right.
What is the most rewarding part of being a solicitor?
I really enjoy helping people and giving them comfort and peace of mind. I also take an inordinate amount of pleasure in balancing estate accounts. I am a loud and proud Excel spreadsheet geek!
What are you currently working on?
I joined Muckle in March of this year, and I am part of our commitment to expanding our presence in Teesside. I have been focused on getting to know my new colleagues, growing my existing links with the Teesside communities and, of course, supporting clients with the new Budget changes.
How do you like to unwind?
I am a working mother with two small children, so inevitably, I don’t get a lot of downtime, but a glass of wine and an episode of whatever TV show I’m enjoying watching (currently, The White Lotus) is a lovely way to finish off a busy day.
www.muckle-llp.com