Aaron Smith

Background

About Aaron Smith

I studied sociology at degree level. The course itself opened many critical avenues for me, allowing me to develop an aspiration for the furthering of social justice within society. I have always seen a necessity for equality and inclusion in society, whether socially or legally, which has grown throughout my time in education. After considering my options, I decided to pursue a career in law. I completed both the GDL and LPC, with my electives chosen being commercial law, acquisitions, intellectual property and competition law. I took part in two pro bono initiatives during this time. Firstly, during my studies on the GDL I was apart of the Elderlaw clinic, which concentrated on the law surrounding wills, where we interviewed clients and produced wills for them. The second pro bono opportunity is where my future commercial and corporate aspirations blossomed from. During my time studying the LPC I took part in the Business Advice Clinic. We would interview a large range of clients, from sole traders, partnerships and limited companies, and provide them with legal advice tailored to their needs. We advised on a range of issues such as; partnerships, contracts, agency agreements and formation of companies. I also spent a week long placement at the Avon and Bristol law centre assisting with admin tasks and shadowing solicitors and case handlers. They are a small firm who provide legal advice and representation to legally aided individuals. My previous position was a contracts disputes paralegal at Lyons Davidson doing work within civil litigation. The role involves direct contact with the client and managing cases, keeping to strict deadlines that are required by service level agreements with Insurers. I then moved to Meade King solicitors. Where I was a part of their corporate/commercial department which specialises in the dental industry. Responsibilities centred around all aspects of due diligence and assisting solicitors. This includes drafting notices, SPA’s, partnership agreements, board minutes and associated ancillary documents. Knights acquired Meade King in 2023 where I have continued my training contract. My future ambition is to be a corporate/commercial solicitor.