Caroline rises to the top

Hard work and commitment has paid off for a former legal executive who became a solicitor at Birkett Long and has now just made partner.

Mother-of-two Caroline Dowding, who is Head of Wills, Trusts and Probate in Birkett Long’s Colchester office, specialises in the administration of estate, trusts, tax planning and care fee funding.

It is a far cry from the work the 44-year-old was doing when she first joined the firm 15 years ago as a trainee legal executive, which included supporting solicitors in their work.

Two years ago she was promoted to an associate and has now superseded that as partner.

She said: “Birkett Long gave me an opportunity to follow my dream of becoming a solicitor. 

“Throughout this time, the partners have supported, encouraged and guided me to not only become a solicitor but also the head of the Wills Trust and Probate Team in our Colchester office and more importantly become part of their family. 

“To become a partner of a regional heavyweight, one of the largest law firms in Essex, is not only a tremendous achievement personally but a great privilege.

“Birkett Long feels like a family, all following the same dreams and aspirations and one I am very proud of.  Why have I never left? I just love being part of it!”

David Wisbey, Chairman at Birkett Long, said: “Caroline has done so well and come so far that she really deserves this achievement. She is a credit to herself and our team and I congratulate her.”