Claire Rolston - Principal Solicitor, CLR Law
What inspired you to become a Solicitor and how did your journey begin?
I always wanted to study law as I’m drawn to problem-solving and people and I initially set my sights on becoming a barrister. I pursued a degree in Law and German at Liverpool University, but when I wasn’t accepted into Bar School, it prompted me to reflect on my strengths and career direction. I soon realised that the role of a solicitor was a much better fit for me, and I went on to complete Law College with that path in mind.
What are your memories of your first year in practice?
I don’t really remember my first year!! I remember relocating to Harrogate when I was two years’ qualified and being the only employment lawyer in the firm. To say it was a baptism of fire is an understatement. I loved it though and it gave me tonnes of confidence with clients.
What does reaching the 15 year milestone mean to you personally and professionally?
Fifteen years is both humbling and rewarding. Personally, it’s a moment to reflect on the journey and growth, as I’ve been through a lot in that time. Professionally, it marks the trust our clients have placed in me and my team over the years. It also reinforces my belief in staying true to our values: clarity, approachability, and strong client relationships.
How has the legal profession evolved since you started your career?
It’s changed significantly. Technology has reshaped how we communicate and deliver services. Clients now expect more responsiveness and flexibility, and rightly so. There’s also been a shift in culture away from formality and rigid hierarchies, towards more collaborative and agile ways of working, which is how CLR Law was set up all those years ago.
What advice would you give to newly qualified solicitors today?
Be curious and stay open to learning. Legal knowledge is important, but so is empathy, communication and resilience.
Understand your client’s world; don’t just give legal answers, give commercial, human solutions. And remember, you don’t need to know everything right away. It’s a career, not a race.
Has there been a mentor, colleague or client who has had a particularly significant impact on your career?
I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredibly supportive people over the years, but I’d say my clients have had the biggest impact. They’ve always embraced the different way that I’ve done things and encouraged me at every step of the way. The words of one client have always stuck with me and that is “Cash is King” when running a business.
How do you retain a work/life balance?
I’m not sure I’ve entirely mastered it but I am significantly better at it since my illness last year. Running CLR Law has given me the flexibility to shape the firm in a way that supports balance for me and my team and part of that is setting boundaries. Outside of work, I mostly focus on my two daughters who both play football. I coach the younger one as I’m an FA qualified coach and when I’m not coaching, I watch my eldest daughter playing. I occasionally squeeze in a game of golf and love to go skiing in Italy.
Has your connection with the local community influenced your work?
Absolutely. Being based in the North East means we’re deeply rooted in the challenges and opportunities our clients face. Whether we’re advising small businesses, charities or individuals, there’s a real sense of shared purpose and pride in supporting our local economy and people. I am proud to be from Gateshead and want to keep building my business here.
What changes or trends do you see shaping the legal industry in the next 5-10 years?
Technology will continue to disrupt traditional models: AI and automation are already reshaping how we deliver services. Clients will expect even more transparency and cost certainty. But I believe the human side of law – listening, understanding, building trust – will remain at the heart of what we do.
What are your goals and plans for the next chapter of your legal journey?
Looking ahead, I want to continue growing CLR Law sustainably while staying true to our core values. That means investing in people, embracing more technology, and expanding the ways we support our clients. We’ve just recruited a paralegal with a view to a training contract and so I will be able to keep passing on the knowledge for another generation of lawyer.
Get in touch with Claire at claire@clrlaw.co.uk