The Legal Lounge: A Conversation with Tax, Trust and Estates Solicitor Hannah Mycock
- carlalh25
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Once chasing speeding drivers, now chasing signatures on Wills, meet Hannah – a qualified Solicitor since September 2021 and currently based at Chafes Hague Lambert Solicitors.
In this blog, Hannah lifts the lid on her daily routine, spills the tea on the lessons she learned the hard way and offers the kind of advice she wishes someone had whispered to her during training. Keep reading to find out more ….
Q. So Hannah, could you walk us through your career journey so far?
Certainly! My interest in Law began during school when I completed some work experience at a local Law firm in Buxton when I was at school. I then went on to do Law at AS level but I did not enjoy the course as much as I had hoped and dropped that qualification in my second year. Despite this, I went on to gain further experience at Manchester Crown Court and another Law firm and found that I still really enjoyed the work – this led me to apply to study Law at University.
Throughout my degree, I chose to stay at home and work so that I could support myself financially. I soon realised that my favourite subjects were the ones which I could deal with people face to face on a personal level (such as Family Law, Private Client, Personal Injury and Social Justice).
After graduating, I took a year out and began working as a Legal Secretary. Six months in, I was promoted to Paralegal which involved managing a caseload of around 50 low-level personal injury files. I decided to return to University to complete my LPC (now replaced by the SQE) and Masters part time. I was fortunate enough to have an employer who supported me – allowing me to work four days a week and attend University on Friday. The LPC proved to be a real challenge. Balancing work and study were tough and I struggled with the learning style. I failed some modules (passing only on the final attempt) but I didn’t let it define me!
Soon after starting a new role at a personal injury firm, I was offered a Training Contract. I qualified in September 2021 and remained with the firm for six months before deciding that I wanted a role with more client exposure.
In March 2022, I joined Chafes Hague Lambert Solicitors and retrained into the Tax, Trusts and Estates department. I now work closely with people in my local community and believe that the role of a Private Client solicitor is better suited to my personality and way of working.
Q. And when you look back at your journey, what would you say was the most challenging moment and what have you learnt from it?
The most challenging moment in my career was deciding that Personal Injury was not for me and taking the leap towards retraining so soon after qualification.
I only had experience in Personal Injury and so when Chafes Hague Lambert Solicitors accepted my application, it was like taking a step into the unknown (for both me and the firm). The firm really took a risk taking me on and agreeing to retrain me and I am so grateful that they did.
I’ve found that since starting at Chafes Hague Lambert Solicitors, my life has completely changed. I have learnt that I am more resilient and that it is never too late to try something new!
Q. So for our readers that are leaning towards becoming a Solicitor or entering the world of Private Client, can you take us through what your typical day looks like?
Of course! Well the "average" day would look something similar to this: -
8:45am - Arrive at the office.
9am - Deal with any incoming emails.
10am - New client meeting (dealing with a Will, LPA or Probate).
11am - Completing any work from the meeting such as opening a new file, typing a new note, preparing letters and drafting Will/LPA letter to banks, investment companies, utility providers etc.
12:30pm – Lunch (including a dog walk – fresh air keeps me energised for the afternoon and it is great for mental health!).
1:30pm – Finishing off any work from the morning and check post.
2pm - Will/LPA signing meeting or a Probate update with an existing client.
2.30pm – Completing any work from the meeting, including sending final documentation/bill to the client.
3.30pm – Review probate files and chase any outstanding information. Draft inheritance Tax returns/Grant of Probate application and Estate Accounts.
4.30pm – Checking and Responding to emails.
4.45pm – Filing and Admin.
4.55pm – Time recording.
5pm – Home.
If I have a few clients in one week or a large probate matter, I do not always leave bang on 5pm but that is always the aim!
Q. I can imagine that every day is so varied and that is probably why it is so appealing. Have you ever had a standout case, client or situation that you will always remember?
When I worked in Personal Injury I was given a Road Traffic Accident file and I recognised the name of the defendant immediately (an A-List actor with a huge following!). I asked my supervisor if the defendant was who I thought it was and when they confirmed that it was, I could not believe it.
The case was lengthy as the injuries were quite unique in that they affected my client’s sentimental tattoo and we struggled to agree the value. We were successful in the end and obtained a great settlement for my client.
I’m afraid I cannot name names, but that is my own personal, confidential, claim to fame!
Q. Now that you’ve done the job for a few years, are there any parts of the role of a Solicitor that people often misunderstand or overlook?
Yes, that it is a lot of paperwork!
On TV, Solicitors are often shown as constantly engaged in interesting, important and dramatic meetings, or they are seen as going for lunch with vital clients. What you don’t see is them typing up their notes or writing a letter of advice. I would say that organisation and good administration skills are key in this role.
Q. Looking at the legal profession, what do you think is the most rewarding aspect?
For me, it is the feeling of making a positive difference to a real person. I often see people who are going through one of the most difficult periods of their lives, the loss of a loved one, and if I can take some of the stress away from them and make their life just a little bit easier then that makes my job worthwhile.
Q. What advice would you give to someone who is trying to enter the legal profession?
It is not just about the grades. Most people go to university now, or obtain the equivalent qualifications, so that is no longer enough. My advice is to make yourself a well-rounded individual by volunteering and having hobbies that you enjoy and make you unique. Don’t underestimate the transferrable skills that those experiences will give you - in every interview I have had I have been asked about my role as a youth group leader. No-one has asked me how I found Family Law at University.
With that being said, I think my most important piece of advice is to not let setbacks put you off! No two routes to qualification are the same, and comparison is the thief of joy. Follow your own path, and you will get there in the end.
Q. I couldn’t agree with you anymore Hannah, it’s all about making yourself stand out. Now my final question. In one sentence, what does “Justice” mean to you?
Doing the right things for the right reasons.
Hannah, thank you so much for taking part in this interview, I’m sure everyone has found your journey to the law as inspirational and entertaining as I have.
To our readers, keep an eye out for future interview blogs, there's more to come ....
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