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Published in Skills Jersey 2024 Reach Magazine

Trainee Conveyancer, Liberty Spears talks about her career in the legal profession in the 2024 Reach Magazine, a guide to higher education.

What attracted you to a career in conveyancing?
I loved the idea of being able help people, especially through the biggest transaction they are ever likely to make. The thought of being able to work both inside and outside the office during site visits whilst exploring Jersey’s rich property history, was also appealing.

How has your career developed since being with Viberts?
My journey with Viberts has only just begun. After pursuing a career in opera and obtaining a BMus Hons undergraduate degree, I followed my interest in law to join Viberts as a trainee conveyancer in February 2023. 

This role has provided me with invaluable experiences to acquire new skills - even learning to read old contracts in French! In October 2023, Viberts provided a significant opportunity to work at the Judicial Greffe for a 3 month secondment. Whilst there, I gained insight into what happens on the other side of Court, including stamp duty concessions, calculations and creating Acts of Courts. 

Now back at Viberts, I am eager to continue my conveyancing training with the team and looking forward to starting my studies towards the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) in April.

What 3 attributes do you need for your job?
Clear and effective written and spoken communication is essential for keeping clients, colleagues and legal professionals in the loop every step of the way.

Be inquisitive and have a good eye for detail. This is crucial when tracing a property’s title back to land, spotting important clauses in French contracts, drafting new contracts, and conducting site visits. The smallest detail can have a big impact on a transaction.

On site, you need precision when measuring boundaries and an interest in problem solving as the boundary stones aren’t always where they should be. And, of course, you may need a pair of wellies!

What career tip would you give your younger self?
Don’t be afraid to change your career and challenge yourself. Follow your gut, work hard and be eager to learn new skills. Say ‘yes’ to opportunities that come your way. Finally, something I would always say to live by is our family motto: persevere.