Laura Neal

Laura Neal

Laura is a Senior Associate who works in our Private Client team. She trained with Forsters joining in September 2013.

Why did you choose Forsters?

I applied for a vacation scheme at Forsters as I wanted to work for a firm with a stellar Private Client reputation and a collegiate atmosphere. I was also determined not to be just another cog in the wheel! I was struck by how friendly everyone was during the vacation scheme and the high calibre of the clients. Having completed the vacation scheme, I was convinced that Forsters was the right choice.

Why did you decide to qualify into Private Client?

People often comment that they like working in the Private Client field as they like working with individuals. It is true to say that you work with individuals in every area of law, but in Private Client it is personal work and, therefore, the 'thank you' for a job well done is extremely rewarding. As we deal with trust and tax law on a day-to-day basis, Private Client is also academically stretching and unavoidably political.

What does a normal day at Forsters consist of?

There really is no such thing. As we are often the first port of call for general queries from our clients, we are frequently working with lawyers in different teams across the firm to co-ordinate our advice. Otherwise, I am attending client meetings, drafting documents (such as wills, trusts or lasting powers of attorney) or discussing larger transactions with members of the department. There is always time for a quick lunch in Mayfair too!

What is the most interesting thing you have done at Forsters to date?

Grasping the complex family dynamics of particular clients makes any work, however straightforward, interesting.

What is the most challenging part of your role?

Many of our clients are sophisticated and own a wide variety of assets, often held through complex structures. As a Private Client lawyer it is necessary to understand the clients' situation and instructions in the round, which invariably involves grasping unfamiliar corporate, family and property law aspects.

What do you enjoy most about working for Forsters?

I enjoy working in a collaborative team where everyone is professional with the essential ingredient of a good sense of humour.

What is Forsters like socially?

There is always something going on, including regular firm-wide drinks and sporting events. We have summer and winter parties, which are always a highlight.

Finally, what three words would you use to describe Forsters?

Respected, collegiate and friendly.


Meet us

Here is your chance to get to know some of our staff and find out what they think life is like working at Forsters.

People talking and laughing while working - training at Forsters


"They are obviously a very reputable and well-established private client firm."
Chambers UK
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