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26 June 2018
How does it feel to have won Young Pro?
“It’s a great feeling, something that I’m really proud of. When you look at all the other finalists and everyone who was shortlisted in the subcategories, and you see the great work they are all doing it really is an honour to be singled out for my work and contributions to the area. Not only that, but it also serves as a bit of a driver, not that you do the work to win awards, but it certainly helps put a smile back on your face when you are having a bad day and you can look at your award and think – yeah, I did that.”
How long have you worked for Mander Hadley?
“I’ve been at Mander Hadley for four years specialising in Mental Capacity Law, and Wills and Probate. Prior to that I’d spent three years at Coventry City Council Legal Services in the Adult Social Care department.”
What is the most satisfying part of what you do? / what is your favourite part of your job?
“It’s the ability to genuinely help people through a difficult period using skills and knowledge I have had to work hard at to get. My area of law is very client facing and people focused, and I’m often dealing with clients who are going through some kind of crisis. Being able to advise them, and assist them through these times and seeing the resulting relief this can bring is really rewarding. Whether that be obtaining legal authorities to assist loved ones who have Mental Capacity Issues, or just taking the pressure off the family when a relative has passed away, it’s really satisfying to be in a position to help, but also doubly rewarding to be in that position and have that opportunity because of the work I’ve had to put in to get that skill set.”
What tips would you give for someone wanting to become a Solicitor?
“Learn to love coffee – it’s your friend!
Joking aside, it goes without saying but – work hard. The legal profession is ultra-competitive, so you are only doing yourself a disservice by not going for it 100%. This applies to all aspects, whether it be at degree level, training, applying for jobs and in even more so when practicing. That one extra change to a CV, or that additional networking event, might just be the difference to being given a great career opportunity!
Be open minded. None of the practice areas that I’ve had exposure to were areas that I thought I would want to work in. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t aim for the area you want, or indeed that you should settle for something else, but at least be open to trying your hand at something different as it often turns out to be really enjoyable, and in my case lead to developing a specialism in an area of law that I can really focus my career on.
Be patient and resilient. Not everyone will fall out of law school and into the dream training contract with the big city firm. Whilst this does happen, there are even more stories of people having to start at the very bottom and work their way up, and there’s often a lot of heartache and rejection along the way. Wherever you end up, it’s important to maximise these opportunities and get the most out of them and learn from the experience. If you can stay patient whilst maintaining the drive to achieve your goal of qualification you will ultimately get there, (it took me 8 years after graduating!), and it makes it even more satisfying in the end.”
The thoughts and opinions expressed on this blog are those of Andriy Buniak and do not necessarily reflect those of Coventry and Warwickshire First. All content on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of the blog is not responsible for content found by following any link on this site.