Rising star Florence Newton spent the length of the pandemic qualifying with regional law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors.
The ‘rule of six’ for social gatherings, a return to working from home and a 10pm curfew for hospitality had just been introduced when Florence started her training contract in September 2020.
Now she has become among the first solicitors in the area to qualify – and all while combining her training with duties as Vice-President of Bournemouth and District Junior Lawyers Division.
Florence is based in Ellis Jones’ Dispute Resolution team and works closely with Commercial Property colleagues. She has a keen interest in property litigation.
Nigel Smith, Managing Partner at Ellis Jones, said: “Warmest congratulations to Florence on her success.
“Full credit must go to Florence for taking her training contract in her stride despite the upheaval and disruption of the last two years.
“Ellis Jones prides itself on nurturing talent and providing clear pathways for career progression. Florence is one of our rising stars and I am convinced she has a very bright future.”
Florence graduated with a first class honours degree in law from Bournemouth University before passing her LPC legal practice qualification with a commendation.
She worked as a Paralegal at Ellis Jones from May 2019 before embarking on her training contract.
Florence said: “I am sure the experience of training in different departments during a pandemic will stand me in good stead for the future.
“My thanks to everyone at Ellis Jones for being incredibly supportive. I’m looking forward to progressing my career and supporting the firm’s many valued clients.”
Ellis Jones has more than 170 staff including 21 Partners. It has five offices across the south coast in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs (Poole), Ringwood, Swanage and Wimborne – as well as London.