Victoria Bottomley – Team Journey

Associate

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF THE FIRM WHEN YOU JOINED?

Everyone was really friendly and approachable, from the most junior to senior positions.

TALK ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE, WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE AND HOW WERE THEY OVERCOME?

I started as an Office Assistant in the Facilities team.

I progressed to working on one of the recovery teams as a Litigation Assistant, progressing to become a Paralegal, Trainee Solicitor - and in the summer of 2021, completed my training contract and became a fully qualified solicitor. In 2023 I became an Associate.

During my time here and over the last 7 years, I have also been able to successfully complete my GDL and LPC qualification.

I would say to anyone that you have to become well organised, plan ahead to be able to fit all of the study, personal life and with the challenge of learning new responsibilities and knowledge and skills on the job.

WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT THE SUPPORT NETWORK IN THE FIRM?

You really can’t fault the support available within JB Leitch, there’s always someone to ask questions of, from people you work with in a team, to the most senior staff, there’s a real open-door policy.

HOW ARE THINGS GOING IN YOUR ROLE?

I’m constantly learning and while doing my training contract I had support from senior solicitors who have mentored me, allowing me to make decisions, work on a variety of complex matters and offer me feedback when I need it. My principal areas of practice include the handling of disputes relating to residential developments and acting on behalf of Landlords, Management Companies and Right to Manage Companies in defending applications made to the First-tier Tribunal to challenge the reasonableness and payability of service charges. Around this, I enjoy providing commentary through articles and blog posts which deliver practical advice on a range of property matters to clients and the wider public.

SO, WHAT DO PEOPLE DO FOR FUN IN JB LEITCH? WHAT’S THE SOCIAL LIFE LIKE?

There are lots of social events which are arranged by colleagues and seasonal celebrations organised by the firm - so a great environment to get to know colleagues and make friends!