Your previous career is your superpower
We believe that great lawyers don’t always take a traditional route into the profession. For some, their strength lies in the wealth of experience they bring from other industries – and that’s their superpower.
Elizabeth Godfrey, a Trainee Solicitor in our Clinical Negligence team, is living proof of this. After more than 15 years working as a forensic scientist and manager, Elizabeth made the bold move to retrain as a solicitor – bringing with her a unique skillset that enhances her legal work every day.
A career grounded in science and justice
Before entering the legal profession, Elizabeth spent over a decade working in the forensic science industry. She began her career analysing biological samples in serious criminal cases – from drink and drug driving to drug-facilitated sexual assault and murder.
Elizabeth explains:
“I prepared reports for HM Coroner and trained to give expert evidence in court. As a manager, I was responsible for the lab’s operational and commercial performance, ensuring quality standards and turnaround times were met.”
Her work served as a vital bridge between science and the legal system, requiring precision, analytical thinking, and emotional resilience.
From forensic expert to future solicitor
Elizabeth said:
“After 15 years, I felt I had achieved what I set out to do in forensics. I was ready for a new challenge – one that would build on what I’d already learned, while opening up fresh opportunities.”
While exploring new career paths, Elizabeth was drawn to the legal profession for its intellectual rigour, variety, and meaningful impact. The transition to law was ambitious but felt like a natural progression.
Science meets law in clinical negligence
Now working in the Clinical Negligence team, Elizabeth finds that her background in science brings distinct advantages.
She explained:
“In forensics, I handled complex scientific data, juggled demanding caseloads, and wrote precise, structured reports. All of that translates directly into legal work.”
Her fluency with medical language and her attention to detail allow her to quickly interpret client medical records and spot inconsistencies that can be key to a case. Her experience preparing expert witness statements also informs her legal drafting.
“I understand the importance of clarity, relevance, and structure – skills that I now apply to support our clients.”
Training Contract Plus: making experience count
Elizabeth is part of our Training Contract Plus programme and says the sessions have helped her reflect on how her previous experience applies in a legal context.
She noted:
“The business development session stood out. In forensics, work came through formal procurement. In law, it’s about relationships – that was a valuable learning curve.”
Looking ahead: combining legal advice with operational insight
Elizabeth hopes to further build on her management experience by taking a seat in the Employment team.
“I’ve dealt with the types of issues our clients face – from long-term sickness and disciplinaries to redundancy and TUPE transfers. I understand how emotionally and commercially complex these situations can be.”
She is keen to help clients not only resolve legal issues but prevent them through sound strategy, training, and policy development.
“It’s not just about giving the right legal advice – it has to work in practice, for the people and the organisation. That’s where I think my operational experience adds real value.”
Advice for others considering a career change into law
Elizabeth’s advice to others considering a change?
“Changing careers is hard – but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Your previous experience is your superpower. Use it. Own it. It’s what makes you stand out – and it’s what the legal profession needs.”
She believes the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has made law more accessible to professionals from all backgrounds and urges those considering a transition to research their options, build their networks, and believe in the value of their past experience.
