A LAW firm has appointed a new paralegal who will train as a police station representative before becoming a trainee solicitor.

Sophie Oxtoby of Wigton steps into the new role with Wragg Mark-Bell Solicitors having graduated earlier this year with a First Class Honours degree in law from the University of Northumbria.

Sophie is excited to begin her new role with the Carlisle based law firm.

She said: “I was keen to stay in the local area, and even more so since Covid struck. It is a rare opportunity, with many of the big city firms recruiting years in advance. The perfect opportunity came up at a time where many things felt so uncertain.

“It’s a very hands-on role - I’m working in the crime department, but also helping with family cases and managing civil litigation cases, so I am getting some great experience in a number of different areas. I’m really enjoying working at the firm and excited about my future as a solicitor.”

The final months of Miss Oxtoby’s studies were spent working from home after the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

She said: “It was a really tough time trying to learn virtually and not being able to interact with other students, as well as all the distractions that come with working at home and not having access to University facilities. It was not at all how I thought my final year at University would be. I was also working at a couple of part-time jobs whilst studying at home.

“The results situation was also a very worrying time, but I was delighted to come away with a First and to know that all the hard work over the past three years has paid off.”

Miss Oxtoby’s beloved pet Marley paid a visit to the law firm to meet his owner’s new colleagues.

The Wragg Mark-Bell Solicitors base on Castle Street is known as one of Carlisle’s most dog-friendly businesses.

“Marley is 12, but he’s really lively. He’s a rescue Jack Russell and Patterdale Terrier cross, and some of the other dogs here are quite small too, so it’s great to see him getting on well with them.”

To make an enquiry at the firm call 01228 510077.