Creagh Masterson-Jones
Job Title: Solicitor
Location: Oxford
I joined Bower Bailey as a trainee solicitor in 2014 shortly after completing the Legal Practice Course with the University of Law. I attended Magdalen College School in Oxford and, although I spent several enjoyable years studying in Scotland, I knew that I wanted to stay in Oxford to pursue my legal career.
During my training contract I had the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in a number of different areas of law. The training was practical and hands on with lots of client contact and I felt a valued member of each team.
I knew when I qualified that I wanted to remain with Bower Bailey. There was a vacancy in the private client team and I was delighted when the role was offered to me. However, I knew in my heart of hearts that I wanted to be a corporate lawyer as I had found my training in this area so interesting and enjoyable. So, when an opportunity arose in the corporate team and I was offered a role there I grasped it with both hands. This is what I like about Bower Bailey – you don’t feel as though you are “pigeon-holed” down a particular career path. If you work hard and prove yourself they will try and ensure you are ultimately able to work in your preferred area of specialism.
The work which I undertake is varied and it is rare for any two files to be the same. The work itself can be technically challenging and there is always the additional factor of managing multiple files and client expectations. However, I relish the challenges involved and I am glad to work for a firm which is willing to give me such a large amount of responsibility. I also know that I can rely on the support of other colleagues as and when I require it. I also find my private client experience very useful in advising corporate clients as succession planning is so important for a business and is often overlooked.
I think Bower Bailey has struck the right balance between being a modern, forward-thinking firm and one which still understands that most clients appreciate the traditional relationship with their solicitor, namely: a personal relationship with someone they can trust to give sound and honest advice.
