Southampton: At 31 Taylor makes partner at Eric Robinson Solicitors

Emily Taylor first entered the doors of Eric Robinson Solicitors 15 years ago, keen to get work experience to support her desire for a career in the legal profession. Now, aged just 31, her determination, hard work and success has seen her become one of the firm’s youngest-ever partners.

After completing a law degree at the University of Southampton and LPC at Guildford Law School, Taylor began work at Eric Robinson  as a paralegal in civil litigation and conveyancing. A year later, she embarked on a two-year training contract with the firm which saw her experience a range of legal disciplines including wills, trust and succession.

"I had no idea how much I would enjoy managing wills and probate work until I started it," she recalled. "Within a couple of weeks, I could see there was so much more to the work than simply drafting wills. There’s all manner of assets to take into consideration, including those abroad, powers of attorney, financial planning and the varying complexities of different families."

After qualifying, Taylor stayed at Eric Robinson and was taken under the wing of then senior partner and head of wills, trust and succession, Graham Payne.

"I was very fortunate to have Graham as a mentor as he trusted me with more and more responsibility within the department. I became the Court-appointed deputy on his cases, and since he retired last year have assumed full responsibility for them."

In 2011, Taylor took time out to start her family and enjoy the arrival of her twin boys. She returned to work the following year keen to develop her career, and this year was offered the opportunity to join the partnership.

"Of course, it can sometimes be challenging to combine motherhood with a career, but I have an excellent role model in our managing partner Catherine Maxfield, and as the sixth person to join the partnership, there are now three men and three women, which is pretty unusual. I think it’s important to get the balance right. When I am at work, I am focused on my clients, their cases and my colleagues, but when at home, I am there for my family. I find Eric Robinson Solicitors has always been very respectful of that."

Taylor is clear in her ambition to make a worthwhile contribution.  She said: "I am young, so hope to bring energy, enthusiasm, and originality in ideas and approach for the future. As a firm, Eric Robinson Solicitors has built itself a very strong position over the past 50 years, but there are lots of areas we are developing and investing in. I enjoy working with the other partners and, as the only one who practices wills, trust and succession, I think it will be useful to bring my perspective and experience to the table."

"We are truly delighted Emily has decided to get involved in the management of the firm," said Maxfield. "Over the years she has shown real dedication and loyalty, so we hope this opportunity will reflect our appreciation for all her effort and hard work."