Careers

I am a qualified Brazilian lawyer who came to the UK to study for a Master’s degree in Law and decided to stay, hoping to practice law here.

I learned about SH&P while working as a recruiter, as SH&P was one of my clients at the time. What I found most attractive about SH&P was its culture and diversity. It is not like a large corporate law firm where I would feel like just another number. Instead, I found the team very approachable and friendly. The fact that the Managing Partner is a French woman also made me feel at ease, as I would not be the only foreign woman at the firm.

Since I joined the firm nearly three years ago, I can say that my role has evolved quickly. As I did not have any experience working in a UK law firm, I joined SH&P as a trade mark paralegal to gain experience. After a year and a half, I became a trainee. I am now in my final year of training and due to fully qualify this summer.

A typical day as a trainee at SH&P involves constant learning and drafting. I normally check my diary and upcoming deadlines, then start working on the most urgent matters. I work closely with my mentor, Peter Cornford, who kindly explains and clarifies any questions I have before I start preparing draft responses to clients for review. New client queries also often come to me, so I discuss these with my mentor before conducting client interviews.

I mainly enjoy working at SH&P because the team is genuinely approachable. Whenever I need to speak to a partner or clarify something, I can simply knock on their door, and they will make time to listen. I am also pleased to see that one of my suggestions to improve the work of the paralegal team has been implemented, which shows that SH&P is open to ideas. I also value the flexibility, the variety of work, and the trust that all partners place in us.

Go for it, it is a great place to work! Imagine working for a law firm that supports you throughout your journey: that’s SH&P.

I joined SH&P in February 2003, shortly after completing my GCSEs at age 16, and have been proud to build my career with the firm ever since.

My first role at SH&P was as an Office Junior.

I began my career at SH&P as an Office Junior, where I was responsible for managing incoming and outgoing post alongside general administrative duties. I then progressed to a Trade Mark Formalities Assistant role, supporting our team of Trade Mark Attorneys, and in 2006 I passed the Trade Mark Formalities examination (now known as the CITMA Paralegal Course).

After several years of experience and development, I was promoted to Trade Mark Paralegal Manager before moving into my current position as Head of Paralegal and Records. Alongside my trade mark experience, I have recently taken a keen interest in patents and designs, and in 2024 I further expanded my knowledge and expertise by successfully completing the CIPA Introductory Patent Paralegal Course (IPPC).

I arrive at the office around 7:45 and making myself a coffee before reviewing the day’s critical deadlines and sending reminders to our attorneys to make sure everything is in hand. I review my inbox and diary for anything urgent, then respond to client and overseas attorney emails. I also review team capacity and step in to rebalance workloads where needed. I oversee new client instructions and work closely with our Records and IP Administrator teams to ensure each matter is set up and actioned. Throughout the day, I provide training, handle procedural queries, keep workflows running efficiently, and double-check that key deadlines are met. I also set aside time to plan improvements to our systems and processes and to work on client projects, all with the goal of providing an accurate, efficient, and supportive service to both clients and colleagues.

What I most like about working at SH&P is the family feel. I’ve been with the firm for 23 years, starting as a 16-year-old, so in many ways I’ve grown up here, and I see my colleagues as another family. I really value that the Attorneys and Partners listen to you, take your views seriously, and actively support your progress and development.

SH&P is an excellent place to build or enhance your career, whether you’re just starting out or an experienced professional. The firm genuinely supports its people, values their contributions, and encourages growth. You’ll find a friendly, collaborative environment where your voice is heard, and you have the opportunity to work with interesting clients and matters—no two days are ever the same—while being part of a team that is supportive, approachable, and committed to helping you succeed.