Welcome to the thirteenth blog post for TheLawyerFiles!
First, thank you for subscribing. Please stay tuned for insightful interviews, expert advice, and real-life experiences from legal professionals to help you navigate your journey to becoming a solicitor.
In this edition, we feature Desiree Obioma, a solicitor apprentice at Addleshaw Goddard whose legal journey blends early ambition, quiet confidence, and bold career decisions. From juggling four A-Levels and retail shifts at McDonald’s to earning her place in the firm’s Corporate team, Desiree has carved out a path defined by resilience, self-discovery, and a deep belief in learning through action.
What sets Desiree apart is her willingness to embrace discomfort for growth — whether stepping into unfamiliar legal seats, becoming the first apprentice to join the Scottish team, or applying for the solicitor apprenticeship even when fear told her not to. Through every transition, she has stayed grounded by mentorship, self-awareness, and a strong sense of purpose.
Her story is a reminder that legal excellence isn’t limited to any one route — and that the best lawyers are often shaped not just by textbooks, but by teamwork, tough customers, and the courage to apply anyway.
Let’s dive in! 🚀
- Were there any pivotal moments during school or college that made you realise Law was the right path for you?
I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer, but I didn’t really know what kind of lawyer I wanted to be until I studied Law at college. I’ve always been drawn to classical subjects like History and English Lit, loved ‘arguing’, loved writing… so, when I finally studied Law at A-Level, everything clicked. That’s also when I realised there’s a difference between barristers and solicitors and learning that you could become a solicitor without going to uni the traditional way, but through an apprenticeship was life changing. That was the moment I saw a future I could actually step into.
- You’ve worked in fast-paced customer-facing roles at Greggs, JD Sports, and Manchester United. What did those experiences teach you about people, professionalism, and resilience?
They did everything for me. I also worked at McDonald’s, and I was doing all of that whilst studying four A-Levels, doing an EPQ and being involved in things like the student council. It was chaotic but it taught me how to show up, even when I was tired, overwhelmed, or stressed.
It also taught me how to deal with people such as difficult customers or strict managers. I say this all the time: retail and hospitality are the best training grounds for law. You learn how to work in a team, deal with pressure, resolve conflict, and keep the client happy. All of which directly translate to working in the legal world.
- You’ve progressed from a Paralegal Apprentice to your current seat in Corporate and Commercial. How would you describe that journey so far?
It’s been a rollercoaster in the best way. I started off in the Disputes team, which I thought I’d love forever. I did enjoy it at first, but I later realised that contentious work might not be for me long term. Then I got to do a seat with our Scottish team which was such a unique experience as I was literally the first apprentice to ever do that.
After that I worked on one of the biggest Real Estate projects the firm has ever had, which gave me proper fee-earning experience and built my confidence. That’s when I decided to apply for the solicitor apprenticeship which, by the way, I almost didn’t do because I was scared to leave my comfort zone. But with the right encouragement, I went for it.
After doing a year in the Real Estate Finance team, I am now in the Corporate team, living the corporate girlie experience. Doing a corporate seat felt like a full circle moment as it was the only group I hadn’t experienced yet. Now I am ready for my training contract starting in September. I can finally see the finish line, and I’m so excited for what the next two years have in store for me.
- Have you had access to mentors throughout your apprenticeship? What role have they played in your development?
Absolutely. I mean, that’s one of the best parts of the apprenticeship. You learn on the job, but you also learn from people.
Over the past few years, I’ve had some incredible mentors who’ve supported me, believed in me, and helped me grow. My very first manager was a young woman of southeast Asian heritage and seeing her in that role made me feel like I could bring my true, authentic self to work. She just understood me. She really helped me navigate the legal world. Coming from a similar background to mine, she understood the little things, the big things, and everything in between. She was so important in helping me progress through the profession. I could go to her for anything, and I still do.
On the other hand, I also had a senior male colleague who taught me what real allyship looks like. I will never forget him saying, ‘I know not everyone is going to respect a young woman in this role, but I won’t let that fly.’ And he meant it. That kind of support gives you this peace and confidence that’s priceless.
I started this job straight out of college at 18, and I needed all the support I could get. I’ve learnt so much from my mentors. From technical things like writing styles to soft skills like conflict resolution. I’m like a sponge, soaking up all the knowledge around me.
I honestly wouldn’t have made it this far without the people who’ve poured into me along the way.
- Finally, what advice would you give to someone who’s considering a solicitor apprenticeship but isn’t sure where to begin?
Start simple. Google top law firms in your city. Seriously. I didn’t know any firm names when I started either. Platforms like City Century and Legal Cheek can also guide you through applications and give you direct links to apply.
And please don’t let imposter syndrome stop you. You’re not too young, too ‘unqualified’, too anything. These opportunities are for you. If you’re determined, curious, and ready to work, you can absolutely get there. You just have to take the first step.
Desiree Obioma – https://www.linkedin.com/in/desiree-obioma-7452391a1/
Solicitor Apprentice @ Addleshaw Goddard
Thank you for reading the thirteenth edition of The Lawyer Files!
I hope Desiree’s journey has inspired you whether you’re exploring alternative routes into law, balancing studies with part-time work, or finding the courage to apply for something outside your comfort zone. Her story reminds us that success in law isn’t just about grades or titles it’s about resilience, self-belief, and showing up fully, even when it’s hard.
🎧 Stay tuned — our podcast episode with Desiree is coming soon, where we’ll dive deeper into her journey from paralegal apprentice to the corporate team at Addleshaw Goddard, the lessons she’s carried from retail into law, and how mentorship and self-belief have shaped her path. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!
Until next time—keep learning, keep growing, and keep showing up as your full self. 💼📚✨
— Denice Obeng 🙂
