Chelsea DeSilva studied the Law LLB programme at The City Law School graduating in 2018.
What is your current role or position? What does it entail?
Junior Legal Counsel – an insurance company. My role entails the following:
- Day-to-day Legal Enquiries: Handling routine legal queries from different business units or departments within the organization.
- Contractual Work: Assisting in the review, drafting, advising on, and negotiating a diverse range of commercial contracts and other legal documents.
- Corporate Documents: Drafting and reviewing corporate documentation, which can include minutes and resolutions from board/shareholder meetings, powers of attorney, memorandums of association, licenses, etc.
- Legal Research: Conducting legal research and analyses, preparing presentations, and generating reports for senior legal management.
- Ad Hoc Legal Matters: Addressing unforeseen legal issues as they arise.
What motivated you to pursue the LLB Law?
As a Bermudian, my motivation to pursue Law LLB stemmed from Bermuda's distinguished standing as a world-class (re)insurance hub and a pivotal centre for mergers and acquisitions.
I was and continue to be deeply intrigued by the intricate corporate structures and the complex transactions that characterize the island's economy.
The United Kingdom's overseas territory status of Bermuda adds another layer of legal nuance, harmonizing local corporate practices with international standards.
As a young lawyer, I am eager to delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by this dynamic sector, aiming to uphold Bermuda's legacy in the global financial arena through expert legal proficiency.
What one piece of advice would you give to someone considering studying the LLB?
Embrace the journey with an open mind and tenacity. Studying an LLB is not just about learning the law; it's about cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to look at things from different perspectives.
It will challenge you, but these challenges will prepare you for the multifaceted legal issues you'll encounter in practice.
Remember that law is both an academic study and a practical skill. Seek out opportunities for hands-on experience through moot court competitions, legal clinics, or internships. These experiences will not only reinforce your academic knowledge but also give you a glimpse of the law in action.
Lastly, treat each obstacle as a learning opportunity. The path to becoming a legal professional is paved with complexities and challenges that demand resilience.
Stay curious, ask questions, engage with your peers in debates and discussions, and remember that every case you study is a building block in your understanding of the legal fabric that shapes our society.
How would you describe the academic and pastoral support you received during your studies with us?
The academic support I received during my studies at City, University of London was exceptional and played a crucial role in my legal education.
The faculty's dedication to student success was evident through their open-door policies and willingness to engage in discussions outside of scheduled classes.
The staff were not only experts in their respective fields but also approachable, often going the extra mile to ensure that complex legal concepts were understood.
Moreover, the university's resources were comprehensive. The law library was well-stocked with a vast array of legal texts and online databases, providing an indispensable tool for research and learning.
Regular workshops and seminars were organized, which helped in developing essential legal skills such as legal writing, research, and moot court advocacy.
Peer support systems were also a significant aspect of the academic environment. Study groups and law societies created platforms for collaborative learning and discussion, allowing for a deeper dive into legal topics and the sharing of diverse perspectives.