Meet the team… Katie Powell

In our latest ‘Meet the team…’ feature, we catch up with Katie Powell, a CILEx Lawyer in HCR Law’s Family Law team, based in the Wye Valley office.

What first attracted you to a career in law?

During school, I spent a week at the legal department at the local council, which sparked an initial interest in law. As a result, I decided to study law at A Level, which I thoroughly enjoyed, appreciating its methodical nature and problem-solving element.

After securing a place to study law at university, I decided to take a gap year and took a job at a local solicitor’s firm, assisting in the family department. It was here that I learned I had a passion for using the law to help individuals. This was the beginning of my career as a family lawyer.

What type of legal advice do you provide? And to what sorts of clients?

I provide legal advice to clients who are in the process of separating or have already separated, in relation to financial matters and arrangements for children. These clients may be married or unmarried. I can assist with bringing marriages to an end or dealing with the breakdown of cohabitating relationships.

I also advise on the protection of assets when entering into relationships through pre-nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements.

I am a member of Resolution and always aim to deal with matters in a conciliatory manner.

What is your most memorable legal experience? And why?

This would probably be the first time I finalised a matter for a client, starting from taking initial instructions through to securing a successful outcome. The realisation that the work I do helps individuals navigate some of the most difficult times in their lives is truly rewarding and motivating.

What is your number one top tip for clients?

I would suggest taking legal advice at the first opportunity. It’s so important to understand the legalities of a breakdown in a marriage or relationship, as well as disagreements relating to arrangements for children. Taking early legal advice allows clients to make informed decisions from the outset.