Alumni

Megan Hamilton

Career Path: Partner, Hewitts Solicitors
Location: UK

I’ve always wanted to be a Solicitor and law has always been what I wanted to do. When I graduated in 2014, I joined a local authority as a Paralegal in the Adult Social Services department. I then expanded into care and prosecutions moved to Durham County Council where I completed my training contract, with seats in governance, litigation and care. Following admittance as a Solicitor I joined Hewitts Solicitors in 2017 in their care team. I was made Partner in December 2021.

What are you doing now?

I am now a partner at Hewitts Solicitors. I work in the care department and specialise in court proceedings. I mainly represent children in proceedings, as well as parents.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

Having looked around a number of universities I loved the atmosphere at Northumbria. Newcastle is such an amazing city to live in. The course also really attracted me as the MLaw course was so unique.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

The course was a mixture of lectures and seminars. There was a lot of study expected. There were a mixture of exams and coursework to complete but the feedback was constructive. The course was intense but it is a masters level course as well.

How connected was your course with industry?

There were always guest lectures on, while I was studying both the Attorney General and Sir Kier Starmer attended and either met students or gave talks. There were regular opportunities to network through the Grey Society.

What was the best thing about your course?

All the lecturers are invested in their subjects and clearly have a passion for what they teach.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

The Student Law Office is so unique and gives insight into working within a law office. The volunteering opportunities really gave an edge when interviewing for jobs.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

I learnt a lot about organisation and self-motivation. I also learnt a lot about skills you need in a firm such as legal research and writing which are so different to writing essays.