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Dedicated graduate wins prestigious law prize
Ravi Singh Rathore, who completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice at the university’s Leeds Law School, is the winner of this year’s Trainee Solicitor of the Year at the Yorkshire Legal Awards.
Ravi, who also completed a Bachelor of Law at the university, impressed judges with “his commitment to his role both at and away from his desk.”
He received recognition for his extensive community work since joining law firm GT Stewart last year, which has seen him fundraise for the NSPCC, join the newly formed Sikhs in Law council promoting diversity in law, and carry out work internationally helping serve food and water to the homeless.
Speaking about the award win, Ravi said: “I really didn’t expect it at all. It came as a complete surprise, especially with the shortlist of talented people in my category. This achievement would not have been possible without the support and guidance of my colleagues at GT Stewart.”
The award carries extra significance for Ravi, who despite having to wait several years after graduation to secure a Trainee Solicitor position, never gave up on his ambition to become a solicitor.
“A career in law is not for the light-hearted, I have worked a number of paralegal jobs before securing my Training Contract. I’ve been able to pick up transferrable skills along the way which have helped me immensely.”
Ravi balanced his studies at Leeds Law School with full time and part time jobs and highlighted the importance of the support he received from lecturers, which helped him to keep on track during busy periods.
“The support I had from tutors was incredible,” he added.
“If I had any questions, they’d always be on hand to help. Working jobs outside of university made things quite challenging, but they were always very understanding of that and supportive.”
Ravi initially chose a law degree to open doors to careers in a variety of different sectors, however, as he worked more with clients, he found his passion for helping vulnerable people during some of the most difficult periods of their life.
“I take a human approach to matters in my current role where I advise clients in public law children proceedings who are at risk of losing the most important thing in their lives. I’m passionate about fighting for their rights.”
Ravi’s final advice to anyone thinking of studying a law degree is simply to be committed.
“If you show determination, face every challenge head on and believe in your ability, you’ll achieve what you want and more.”