Ever since Kim Chapman left school, she has always been involved in Law. Kim’s first position was as a legal secretary in Central London. She worked in a number of different departments, in various offices including Clifford Chance, Barlow Lyde & Gilbert and Mishcon de Reya.
“I eventually left London and moved to Clacton where I joined Pleass Thomson & Company, again as a legal secretary, but during this time I studied to become a Fellow of the ILEX Institute (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives).
Such an important part of my job is to listen to people. I enjoy being able to help and assist vulnerable clients in care proceedings, but also in divorce and children proceedings too.
Since working in the industry, Legal Aid has changed significantly. It is no longer available in private law children proceedings or divorce, except under specific circumstances, which has had such a big impact on the majority of the public. Public law care proceedings are also far more challenging than before.
I joined John Fowlers at the end of 2012. My favourite thing about the firm is that, although it is expanding rapidly, it still retains the friendly feel of a smaller solicitors and clients are made to feel important rather than just a number as is the case in many other larger firms.
When I’m not in the office, there’s nothing better than relaxing in the garden in the sunshine. I enjoy travelling abroad, preferably to somewhere warm and sunny.”