Muckle LLP solicitor qualifies via apprenticeship

Muckle LLP has bolstered its employment team with Paula Normington, who has qualified as a solicitor through the North-East Solicitor Apprenticeship programme (NESA).

Paula joined the firm in 2008 as a business support assistant, progressing to a paralegal role by completing the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) course.

In 2018, she began the six-year NESA apprenticeship, earning a law degree while gaining practical experience.

Now a qualified solicitor, Paula provides pragmatic employment advice and handles tribunals for a variety of clients. Beyond her role at Muckle, she volunteers with local charities and serves as Data Protection Champion for Read Easy Newcastle & North Tyneside.

She said: “Joining Muckle as a business support assistant was the beginning of an incredible journey. I’ve been so lucky with the support I’ve received along the way – from progressing to senior paralegal to qualifying as a solicitor. 

"The apprenticeship route is a lot of work but it offers the benefit of being part of a firm, gaining hands-on experience and achieving a qualification at the end.

“I’ve gained a wide range of skills and experience over the past six years and have developed a good understanding of how the firm works.

“I’m so happy to finally qualify and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with an amazing team and clients.”

Chris Maddock, partner and head of the employment team, added: “Over the years, Paula has demonstrated tremendous talent and has become a key asset to our employment team and the firm as whole.

“Her drive, hard work and wish to progress have been amazing and she is a prime example of how you can make the best of home-grown talent.”

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