Staff Spotlight on Vines’ Paralegals Catrin Jones & Hannah Taylor

In our latest staff spotlight article, we’re focussing on our talented pair of paralegals Catrin Jones and Hannah Taylor. As a small team, the work that Catrin and Hannah do for Vines Legal, as well as the valuable support they give our matrimonial solicitors, is absolutely integral to the success of the business. So, lets find out more about them, where their passions lie, and the interests that they hope will shape their careers in the future.

After obtaining a First-Class Honours Degree in Law from the University of Derby, Catrin is now studying the Legal Practice Course combined with Masters of Law, part time, alongside her work for the firm. Catrin aims to complete her studies and begin her Training Contract in 2023. Catrin is a Paralegal to Director Claire Clark and Hannah is a Paralegal to our solicitor Chloe Payne; they both provide support with their cases and administrative tasks. Hannah has a First-Class Honours Degree from the University of Derby, where she was awarded the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence. Alongside her work for the company, Hannah is studying the Legal Practice Course combined with Masters of Law.

The Drive to Make a Difference

Both Catrin and Hannah have chosen to specialise in family law since graduating from university and particularly enjoy seeing both the progress and growth in the client during the process. As a source of support and advice, Catrin and Hannah enjoy dealing with individuals and getting to know clients on a personal level.  

Catrin says: “If I had to pinpoint a significant time in my life where my interest in matrimonial law originated, it would have to be when I volunteered in a free legal advice centre specialising in family law during my undergraduate studies at the University of Derby. I found it very interesting and enjoyed learning the practical side of the theory we were taught. I particularly enjoyed the client contact and felt our advice made a difference to people’s families and lives.”

“My interest was also sparked during my undergraduate degree,” says Hannah. A family law module gave me a thirst for further practical knowledge and led to me volunteering with citizens advice where I experienced the more personal side of family law. I enjoyed the feeling of helping and making a difference to people during a time when they are at their most stressed and overwhelmed.”

Thoughts on Potential Reforms to Family Law

With regard to potential upcoming reforms surrounding family law, Catrin and Hannah are both interested in the potential impact the Transparency Pilot could have on the family courts. A perceived lack of transparency and accountability in the existing system has driven planned changes for UK family court proceedings, namely The Transparency Pilot, a UK government-initiated scheme which was launched in January this year.

Its aim is to allow ‘pilot reporters’, including particular accredited journalists and legal bloggers, to report on cases heard in the family court. Although it is subject to strict anonymity rules, there is some controversy surrounding whether the public should be able to access these private matters.  

Getting the Best Outcomes for Clients

“Hannah and I support the fee earners in a number of matrimonial financial cases,” says Catrin. “One thing we are always mindful of is the importance of attempting to settle matters where the cost of court proceedings would outweigh the benefit to the parties, or significantly diminish the resources available to the parties at conclusion. Therefore, we always advise clients to be open minded to settlement offers, engage in voluntary negotiations, and attend mediation where appropriate.”

As for the future at Vines Legal, both Catrin and Hannah have positive prospects to qualify and progress their careers with the firm. Hannah says: “We have such an interest in the area; work is enjoyable, and we are motivated to gain the best results for our clients. This is an ethic which is fostered and valued at Vines.”

Contact Vines Legal for All Aspects of Matrimonial Law

To find out more about the Vines Legal team, including Catrin and Hannah, please visit https://www.vineslegal.co.uk/about-us/. Call today for your free initial, no obligation, consultation on 01246 555 610 for immediate, friendly and professional advice.