A former De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) Law student has been hailed a ‘rising star’ by her Nottingham employer on qualifying as a solicitor.
Shamiza Zia, whose journey into the law began in 2006 when she left her Nottingham home to study LLB Law & Criminal Justice at DMU, has now completed an 18-month training contract with Nottingham Family Law Group
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After almost nine years studying and training, Shamiza has acquired all the qualifications and experience she needs to specialise in Matrimonial, Private Law Children and Domestic Abuse. Shamiza is now firmly established as a family law practitioner in the heart of her home city.
Simon Leach, Director of Nottingham Family Law Group, said: “We could tell very early on that Shamiza had exactly the qualities our company looks for in her desire to succeed, her discipline, commitment, compassion and keen eye for detail.
“Shamiza undoubtedly has the qualities to succeed as a lawyer and, in particular, as a family lawyer. We’re very pleased she’s gained full value from her training contract with our company and that she’s staying with us as a fully qualified solicitor.”
Shamiza’s post-DMU progression began with a Legal Practice course at Nottingham Law School, followed by work experience and para legal service in the Matrimonial department at Nottingham Family Law Group, then her training contract.
Add in Shamiza’s trustee work with Women’s Aid Integrated Services, on the committee of the Nottingham Muslim Women’s Network, legal advice clinics, giving conference speeches and writing for professional publications, Shamiza has built a reputation as an adviser and protector of the victims of domestic abuse, forced marriages and honour based violence. Her fluency in Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi completes a winning CV.
“People often come to us when they’re at a very testing time in their lives and it’s hugely rewarding to see them become stronger and more confident as we work with them through the legal process.” said Shamiza.
“I know it’s not so easy to get training contracts these days but I’d urge today’s DMU law students to be patient and to continue to work hard because if you do you’ll get your chance to shine.”
Posted on Thursday 14 May 2015