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Lidia Aicardi

What encouraged you to pursue a law degree at UCL Laws?

Since my school days, I had a natural predisposition and inclination for the humanities. In this context, the pervasiveness of the law in our daily lives is what first attracted me to a law degree. I chose UCL due to its international reputation, the calibre of the professors and its central London location.

How did studying at UCL Laws help you decide to pursue a career in Family Law? 

In my final year at UCL I became passionate about Family Law and decided I would like to pursue a career in this field upon graduating. I undertook several placements within well renowned Family Law departments. I had an opportunity to frequently attend Court, and get a feel for what the life of the family law solicitor looks like. Subsequently, I did my Legal Practice Course and I worked in different Family Law departments until I started my training contract with Stowe Family Law LLP, the largest specialist family law firm in the country.

Can you tell us a bit about your current role, and what a typical day looks like to you? 

I am a trainee solicitor for Stowe Family Law LLP. The firm has ten offices throughout the country and I am based in the London branch.

My job as a trainee encompasses a variety roles. I attend client meetings, conferences with Counsel and Court hearings. I also spend time drafting official documents and correspondence and assisting other solicitors with the management of their cases. I have been exposed to complex and high value cases at Stowe Family Law. A special highlight of my time here has been spending two days on a complex children law case with an international element with a senior QC from 4 Paper Buildings.

What do you think makes studying at UCL Laws such a unique experience? 

I would certainly recommend the course to intellectually curious students who are looking for an academic challenge whilst exploring London and taking part in a number of extra-curricular activities. UCL Laws is unique as it combines an academically rigorous program with a vibrant Faculty life, filled with every sort of extracurricular activity, from negotiation competition to netball practice. UCL gave me some invaluable tools to stand out and I worked very hard to secure a training contract at the London branch of a reputable law firm.