Kiran Beeharry studied the Legal Practice Course (LPC) at City, University of London and graduated in 2004.
What are you doing now?
I’m a Solicitor and a Partner in the Family Law department at SA Law.
Why did you go into law?
I went into Law because I felt it was an analytical and problem-solving career, and the industry is also fairly cutting edge due to the continuous social and legal changes.
I started thinking about a future as a lawyer while I was at secondary school. Initially I was drawn to the profession because of the problem-solving skills that it demands and career prospects. Now that I’ve had years of experience, I enjoy the profession because it gives me both the opportunity to help people and provide a legal service.
In my current role as a Family Lawyer, it’s fair to say, I’m a lawyer for most of the day but also a source of support for clients too who are going through challenging changes in their lives. The lessons I’ve learned through the University and my training contract have put me in a good stead, which is why I’m good at what I do now.
Why did you choose to study at City?
For me, the campus being right in the centre of London and a fairly easy commute made the logistical side of my decision very simple. In terms of the course (the LPC as it was then known), timetable, structure and choice of elective modules were very appealing and suited my career plans; this coupled with the Careers Service at the University really helped me to further my career.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
The course definitely exceeded my expectations, in terms of the learning environment, the quality of teaching and the people I was able to meet through the course. It allowed me to build a strong foundation for my legal career.
The course was quite different to anything I had previously encountered at secondary school or during my undergraduate degree, but it was very positive and played to my strengths. However, when there were areas that I was weaker in, I was given the support needed to understand, and provided with a protective learning environment to build, work hard and improve going forward.
The community at City was quite key for me. I was fortunate enough to have a really good blend of really good peers and lecturers around me all willing me on to do well, which I am very grateful for.
How has City helped you get to where you are today?
During my Law undergraduate degree at another university, I quickly realised how the rate of those who finish the course and then go on to qualify as a lawyer was incredibly low. This forced me to work incredibly hard to ensure I made it through.
I owe my success to City - the University offered the perfect balance of learning in a supportive environment and having helpful people around me to give me a platform for the career I’ve got now.
Whilst at the University, it was quite eye opening to learn that there is a perfect environment you need to work and learn in to reach your full potential. After I graduated, I went into my training contract and very quickly realised it wasn’t the right place for me to thrive and do well. With the support of the lecturers and other connections I stayed in touch with from City, I made the difficult decision of leaving my training contract.
This gave me the opportunity to take on a new role at a boutique family law firm and qualify there before moving to my current firm, SA Law. During my time at SA Law, I’ve worked my way up the career ladder and become a Partner in the Family Law department.
The work I’ve done and lessons I’ve learned along the way have also led me to be listed in the legal directories The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners as a recommended lawyer.