In this entry of our “Spotlight on…” mini-series, where we shine a light on individuals in a team, we speak to Ellie Atherton, a Solicitor in our Civil Litigation team. She shares her route into the profession, her connection to North Wales, what she enjoys about working at Gamlins Law, and how she likes to switch off outside of work.
Background & motivation
What first brought you into your area of law, and what keeps you interested in it?
I have always personally enjoyed the problem-solving aspect of law, which is one of the reasons why I have chosen to qualify into the Civil Litigation department at Gamlins. There is always a problem to solve and I personally like how there isn’t only one answer to the problem. Everyone has different opinions and approaches to each issue based on different experiences.
The law is constantly adapting, so it is a challenge to keep up to date with the latest developments. We deal with real issues for the everyday person, which also teaches me valuable lessons to use in my personal life at the same time.
What’s something about your career path that might surprise people?
My route to qualification has been far from straightforward. My training contract commenced at a firm in Chester but halfway through my training the firm went into administration. As you can imagine, this was the last thing I expected to happen during my training contract and was quite unprecedented.
Fortunately, I was able to continue my training at Gamlins and am now qualifying into the Civil Litigation team. Although it was an incredibly stressful situation at the time, it has taught me a lot about adapting when things don’t go to plan, which is certainly a useful skill to have in litigation.
My experience reminded me that no matter how carefully you plan your career, life sometimes likes to jazz things up a bit.
Connection to North Wales
What’s your connection to North Wales, and what do you enjoy most about working here?
I was born and grew up in Wrexham, so North Wales has always been home for me. After working in other locations further away from home, there is something quite nice about having an input with clients or businesses that you are familiar with as part of the local community.
Is there a particular place, walk or hidden gem in the region you always recommend to people?
The Aberglaslyn, Llyn Dinas and Cwm Bychan National Trust walk is a stunning route.
Work & expertise
What part of your work do people often misunderstand?
People usually think of litigation and instantly think of the courtroom, or think that our job is a mirror image of the series ‘Suits’, when really there is a lot more to litigation than what most people think.
Most disputes can be resolved without stepping foot in the courtroom and there is a lot more to consider other than who is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’. A big part of the job is looking at the bigger picture, evaluating the costs and risks involved and advising on what is best for each particular client.
Is there a recent change or trend in your area of law that you think people should know about?
An obvious trend is the use of AI, but also the fact that everything is slowly becoming digitised. There seems to be an app or portal for most things.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job day to day?
It is so rewarding when you are able to resolve a client’s dispute and achieve a positive outcome for them, especially when they initially come to you under a lot of stress and emotion.
Life at Gamlins
What made you choose Gamlins, and what has kept you here?
As I grew up in North Wales, working for a firm with a close tie to the local community was a huge attraction for me. What kept me here is definitely the people.
As a trainee, I have assisted a few colleagues on various matters and have found that everyone here is super friendly, influential and approachable, which is not something you experience in every workplace.
What’s something about the team culture that people might not see from the outside?
Although we are professional and take our work seriously, there is a good sense of humor amongst the firm and we are able to have a good laugh, which makes a huge difference day to day.
Which colleague has taught you something valuable, and what was it?
It would be tricky to pinpoint one person, as the whole Civil Litigation department has been so supportive throughout my training. Everyone has been helpful and approachable, which has massively helped my development as a trainee.
Just for fun
What’s something you’re passionate about outside work?
Outside of work I try my best to switch off completely, mostly by reading a book or meeting up with a friend for a coffee. After spending all week at my desk, I do try and reduce my screentime as much as possible.
If you weren’t doing this job, what else could you see yourself doing?
I would do something around coffee and books, my two favourite things. I would love to open up my own coffee shop, maybe with a bookshop element.
Favourite local spot for lunch?
I absolutely love the Thai Noodle Bar in Wrexham, it’s good value for money, authentic and it’s always delicious.
You can find out more about Ellie, or contact her, here.
