From Admin to Aspiring Solicitor: A Journey of Growth at Aston Knight Solicitors

Samiah Khan

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role at Aston Knight Solicitors?

I grew up in Rossendale and went to Haslingden High School. I got a First-Class Honours degree in Social Science, focusing on Social Policy and Sociology, then decided to switch to Law and got another First-Class Honours degree. After that, I completed a Masters of Law, gaining a distinction, at the College of Law in Manchester, where I also did my Legal Professional Course.

I began my employment at Aston Knight Solicitors in August 2022, initially taking on the role of Administrative Assistant. Over time, my responsibilities have expanded significantly, and I now work closely with senior solicitors, providing essential support in managing their caseloads. My role involves assisting with a wide range of personal injury and medical negligence cases, conducting legal research, preparing case documents, liaising with clients, and ensuring the smooth progression of cases. This progression has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of legal procedures and client advocacy, further strengthening my skills in the field of law.

Before joining Aston Knight Solicitors, what kind of work were you doing?

I took a career break to focus on raising my three children, during which time I honed valuable skills in organisation, multitasking, and problem-solving. Prior to this, I worked at a medical firm, where I gained extensive experience in managing operations, overseeing compliance, and ensuring the smooth running of the business. Additionally, I built a strong foundation in legal practice through my work at an immigration firm, where I developed expertise in case preparation, client communication, and navigating complex immigration regulations. These experiences have provided me with a diverse skill set that I continue to apply in my professional endeavours.

What made you decide to join Aston Knight Solicitors?

After looking at a few different law firms, I decided to join Aston Knight Solicitors because they really stood out to me. Their strong reputation and commitment to going the extra mile for their clients were exactly what I was looking for. I wanted to be part of a firm that genuinely cares about the people they help, and Aston Knight’s client-focused approach really resonated with me. Plus, the team was so welcoming, and the flexible working arrangement was a positive. It just felt like the right place to grow, learn, and be part of a supportive and forward-thinking team. I was also really excited about the opportunity to develop my skills and progress in the role, knowing I’d be working alongside experienced professionals in such a dynamic environment.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Every day is different! I work closely with the senior solicitors on all sorts of cases, like personal injury, medical and dental negligence, and civil litigation. I handle things like client calls and emails, organising meetings, taking on new clients, giving initial advice, dealing with admin tasks such as preparing trial bundles, and a lot more!

What stood out to you most when you first started working at Aston Knight Solicitors?

From the moment I joined, the team at Aston Knight Solicitors was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Everyone was so helpful, and it didn’t take long for me to feel like a valued part of the firm. What stood out to me the most was the dedication and passion each team member has for their clients. The senior solicitors are highly experienced, with outstanding success records and a proven history of achieving excellent results, turning cases around that other law firms had dismissed as unwinnable. Their dedication to going the extra mile to achieve the best possible outcomes is truly inspiring. Working alongside such highly skilled professionals has been an incredible learning experience and a great boost for my career. Not only are they experts in their field, but they also genuinely care about the people they represent, which makes being part of the team even more rewarding.

How has your role evolved since you first joined the team here?

I’ve taken on more responsibility as time’s gone on, and now I’m helping with a lot more tasks. I’m assisting solicitors but also managing my own caseload now. It can get pretty busy, but I love it and thrive in that kind of environment.

How would you describe the company culture/ethos?

Aston Knight is built on professionalism, teamwork, and a strong commitment to putting clients first. Everyone is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes and going the extra mile to support those they represent. The Managing Director is especially focused on training and development, providing invaluable guidance and encouragement to help the team grow. There is a real commitment to continuous learning and career progression, creating an environment where everyone is supported in reaching their full potential With this strong foundation, I am hoping to start a training contract at Aston Knight so I can qualify as a solicitor and continue building my career within such a supportive and dynamic firm..

What do you enjoy most about the work environment here?

We all work incredibly hard as individuals, always focused on achieving the best results for our clients. The commitment to securing positive outcomes is at the heart of everything we do. But what really sets Aston Knight apart is the way the team operates—it’s not just about individual effort, but about everyone supporting each other to succeed. The collaborative environment pushes me to keep improving, take on new challenges, and continuously develop my skills. Being surrounded by such dedicated and driven professionals motivates me to go the extra mile, not just for myself, but for the team and, most importantly, for our clients.

What is next for you in 2025 and beyond?

I am eager to continue learning and growing in my current role, building on the experience I’ve gained so far. My goal is to qualify as a solicitor by starting my training contract, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead. The Managing Director at Aston Knight is committed to the development and progression of its staff, providing the support and training needed to succeed. With such a strong focus on professional growth, I’m confident that this is the right place for me to take the next step in my legal career.