Our Housing team offers a wide range of housing-related advice, from tenancy agreements to landlord and tenant disputes and homelessness.
In the third of our series of interviews with the team, we meet Trainee Solicitor Amy Badoc.
Name: Amy Badoc
Job title: Trainee Solicitor (SQE)
What does your job involve? I run my own caseload, advising clients from start to finish on all aspects of their case. I consider the evidence before me (from documents, correspondence and client instructions) and apply my legal knowledge in order to properly advise my client. I draft legal documents on behalf of my client, negotiate with the other party(ies) and ensure my client is properly represented at any hearings. In short, I act on behalf of my client, in my client’s best interests, to achieve the best possible outcome for my client; all the while, providing advice so that my client can make legally informed decisions.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? No two cases are the same and I enjoy applying my legal knowledge to the set of facts before me. It is rewarding when you can see the benefit your client is receiving through your service – be that the lifting of the burden of corresponding with the other side or preparing their case, to achieving the best possible outcome for their case (sometimes achieving above your own expectation!)
What is the biggest misconception people have about your job? Before I started working in law, the biggest misconception that I had about law was that it was boring – I was so wrong! I love my work. There are so many things to think about and it keeps my brain well exercised.
What has been the highlight of your career so far at Cartridges Law? My career in law is only at the beginning, so the highlight so far has been the opportunity to study law and the absolute trust and support I receive from the partners in the firm.
What qualities or attributes do you think you need to work in housing law? You need to have a positive attitude to work – the work is never-ending and time-consuming but, critically, it is of utmost importance to your client. The law is continually evolving so you need to have your finger on the pulse.
What is your top legal tip for landlords? Do not set yourself up to fail! Ensure you are meeting your statutory and contractual obligations; and if you’re not sure, seek legal advice.
There are significant changes coming for landlords and tenants, what do you think the most significant change will be for a landlord? The proposed Private Rented Sector Database will bring about significant change to how tenancies are managed in the future, with landlords having to register themselves and their properties. Initially, the database may seem burdensome, but in the long run I expect it will prove to be an effective tool for both landlords, tenants and, indeed, local authorities.
How can landlords keep up to date with changes in law which will affect them? Landlords who are keen to track the progress of the Renter’s Rights Bill can do so on the Government website. Alternatively, landlords and tenants alike can check out our webpage or follow us on social media for bitesize updates.
Contact Cartridges Law Housing team for an honest and empathetic appraisal of your matter.