Training as a Chartered Legal Executive with W H Matthews & Co

I joined W H Matthews & Co in February 2006 as a Legal Secretary and accepted their offer to fund my studies to become a Chartered Legal Executive in 2012.

I have chosen to study part time as I work full time and also have family commitments. I have been fully supported by the Firm throughout my studies, having been provided with study leave for my exams together with payment of all course fees and tuition fees. Working in a legal environment has been advantageous for my studies as I have been able to draw on the experience of Solicitors within the Firm in order to assist with my research, my course assignments and with any difficult legal questions!

It has been necessary for me to attend evening classes at Kingston College once a week for two years and I have passed all of my exams first time. I have now qualified as an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (ACILEx).

To qualify as a Chartered Legal Executive I will need to undertake a further two years of study which will cover three legal subjects, one practice subject and two skills units. I will then have to undertake practical legal work in the office for a minimum of three years. Upon completion of these requirements, I will achieve my dream of qualifying as a Chartered Legal Executive.

I am extremely grateful for all of the Firm’s support, assistance and continued commitment to my future.  Work based learning has provided me with a means of improving my career prospects within the Firm without having to take any break from employment. As a working mother, this has been invaluable.

Debbie Hannah (ACILEx)

Legal Secretary

Sutton Office