Gemma Campbell

NAME Gemma Campbell
EMPLOYER Ozannes
JOB Trainee solicitor
DEGREE Law, University of East Anglia (2005)

I always imagined that law would be the kind of subject that would allow me to use a wide range of skills and not feel that I had narrowed my options. That has certainly been the case: in fact, I’ve been able to widen my knowledge and skills further by spending time in different departments during my training contract.

I grew up on Guernsey and worked as a legal assistant before heading back to the UK to take the LPC. While I was there I realised that I wanted to come back to the Islands rather than look for a training contract on the mainland. Now, unlike some of my friends in London, I can drive into work and not worry about battling through traffic, be close to my friends and family and have plenty of time to enjoy the great weather and wonderful beaches.

Building experience

I am currently working in the litigation department but have also spent time with the corporate team and completed a three-month secondment with a firm of English solicitors on the Island. I have helped the advocates and associates with all sorts of tasks, from liaising with the Guernsey Financial Services Commission to working directly with private clients, researching points of law and drafting court documents. At the moment I particularly enjoy doing research and assisting the advocates in finding the best solution for each client. Although the hours can be long, it doesn’t affect my personal life, and the work/life balance at a legal firm is good because my work involves lots of socialising!

Building knowledge

There is plenty of training involved in my work. As well as keeping up to date with the Guernsey law I often attend sessions run by bodies such as the Channel Islands Stock Exchange. This helps us ensure that we are working together effectively.