A landmark achievement has been reached at Watson Woodhouse Solicitors, as Leah Plews qualifies as a Solicitor through the apprenticeship route.
Leah’s achievement is remarkable, as she is one of the first solicitor-apprentices in the North of England to reach this stage. It marks the culmination of six years of dedication, determination, and resilience, during which Leah has combined rigorous academic study with extensive hands-on legal practice.
Unlike the traditional university route, Leah has qualified with three times the practical experience of a newly qualified solicitor and without the burden of student debt. Her journey is a powerful example of the opportunities offered through the apprenticeship pathway.
What is a Solicitor Apprenticeship?
The Solicitor Apprenticeship is a six-year programme designed as an alternative route into law. Apprentices are employed full-time by a law firm while studying towards a law degree and completing the Solicitors Qualifying Exams (SQE).
From day one, apprentices are working directly with clients, drafting documents, attending court, and gaining real legal experience alongside their studies. By the time they qualify, solicitor-apprentices have built years of practical knowledge across multiple areas of law, as well as the academic foundation needed to practise. It is an intensive route that requires exceptional commitment, resilience, and time management.
Leah’s Experience
During her apprenticeship with Watson Woodhouse, Leah has gained a wealth of experience across multiple areas of law. She began in Civil Litigation, supporting clients with personal injury claims, actions against public authorities, and debt recovery. She then moved to Housing, advising clients on possession proceedings, homelessness, and harassment.
Leah has chosen to qualify in Crown Court, with a particular focus on financial work and cases under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). She has also qualified as a Police Station Representative, attending police stations to support individuals who have been arrested, recognising how critical this stage can be in shaping the outcome of a case.
A Word from Joe Watson, Talent Manager
“We are all tremendously proud of Leah qualifying as a Solicitor. This is the culmination of 6 years of hard work and dedication. We are excited to support Leah as she progresses as a Solicitor in our expanding Crown Court Department.“
A Landmark Achievement
At Watson Woodhouse, we are immensely proud of Leah. She is not only a highly skilled solicitor but also an inspiration for future apprentices and trainees. Her success demonstrates that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, alternative routes into the profession can lead to extraordinary results.
Congratulations Leah, this is a landmark achievement, and we’re excited to see all you go on to accomplish.