Meet the Team: Barney on his first year at Buss Murton

Meet the Team: Barney on his first year at Buss Murton

What first sparked your interest in becoming a lawyer?

I was a rather argumentative child and my parents always said I would make a good lawyer. I’ve always enjoyed things where there is an element of debate and problem-solving, which led me to study law at university. I wanted to be a lawyer since I was a child – really the only question was whether to be a solicitor or a barrister. Working in litigation seemed like a natural fit.

What was your route into your current role?

I studied Law at university and then worked as a litigation paralegal for a few months. After that, I decided to do my legal practice course and to qualify as a solicitor. During my training contract, I really enjoyed my seats in litigation and employment, so when I qualified, I decided that I wanted to work in these areas.

What attracted you to Buss Murton?

Mostly the people. Right from my first interviews, everyone was very friendly and made me feel very welcome. 

You’ve now been with us for a year. What has stood out most, and what have you learned along the way?

The sheer variety of work that I get to undertake, and the variety of clients that I get to work with. As I do both employment law and litigation, every day brings something new, which keeps the job very interesting. One day I might be dealing with a boundary dispute, and the next I might be in the employment tribunal dealing with an unfair dismissal claim.

I’ve learned more than I can put into words really! Just by doing the job on a day-to-day basis, I’m continuing to learn new things and develop my legal knowledge.

What does a typical day look like for you?

No two days are the same, but typically I’ll be running my case load. That could involve advising clients, drafting documents, seeing clients at our offices (or out and about), or attending Court for hearings.

What types of work do you enjoy most?

I’ve always really enjoyed employment law, ever since I studied it at university. Employment Tribunal litigation is my favourite area of work – particularly unfair dismissal and discrimination claims.

How would you describe your approach to working with clients?

I place a great deal of emphasis on practicality and trying to address the client’s issue in a sensible and cost-effective way. When I’m advising clients, I try to avoid getting bogged down in legal jargon and technicalities (unless it’s necessary!), as I think most clients want to know what they should actually do in their particular circumstance, as opposed to receiving a legal essay.

What do you enjoy most about helping clients?

In my experience, people only get litigation lawyers involved as a last resort. I enjoy putting my skills to use in assisting a client with a problem that they’ve been unable to solve themselves.

What do you enjoy most about working with your team?

Probably the collaboration – especially when we’re working together on a bigger case. My supervisors are great and always have an open door to discuss anything that comes up. We also have great support staff which make life as a fee earner much easier.

How would you describe the culture at Buss Murton? 

I would say that it is very friendly and laid-back. Everyone has a good sense of humour too. I was made to feel very welcome as soon as I started here and settled in very quickly. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I am rather big on fitness, so if I’m not working, I’m probably in the gym. Otherwise, I’m a keen musician and enjoy playing the clarinet and piano. I also like to spend time with friends, playing a bit of pool and getting outdoors. 

What’s next for you in your career?

Continuing to develop my skills as a solicitor and my legal knowledge, and to take on increasingly complex matters. I’m also very interested in doing more advocacy work and want to take my Higher Rights qualification at some point in the future.