Team Story – Casey Ashton
I’ve always felt appreciated. They go the extra mile to recognise your achievements, which makes you feel valued and part of a team rather than just another employee.
Q: Can you describe a typical day for us?
A: A typical day for me starts by going through my emails and prioritising tasks. It can vary from day to day, but usually I handle things like property exchanges, completions, drafting contract packs, reviewing contract packs, addressing enquiries, dealing with mortgage lenders, ordering searches, and preparing search reports. And then whatever else the day throws at me!
Q: You qualified quite recently. Did you undertake your training at Butcher & Barlow as well?
A: Yes, I did. I started my journey with Butcher & Barlow in September 2021 as a legal secretary in the Residential Property department. While working, I was also studying the Legal Practice Course part time. Once I completed my LPC in October, I applied for a Training Contract at the Firm, was accepted and became a Trainee in March 2022. I qualified in September 2023.
Q: How did you decide you wanted to specialise in Residential Property?
A: Initially, whilst I was college I was interested in criminal law, which is quite common. I think most people that begin studying law want to be criminal lawyers because of how it is portrayed on TV – that’s where they think all the excitement is! But it’s not usually the case to be honest. Later, I undertook some work experience in family law, and I did really like that. When I started my LPC, I rather surprisingly felt a connection with Residential Property, and it turned out to be more interesting than I expected. It just clicked when I was doing my training, and I’ve been enjoying it ever since.
Q: What aspect of your job do you most enjoy?
A: I think the thing I most enjoy is helping people with what are quite often big and significant times in their lives. It’s really rewarding completing a purchase for a client and seeing their satisfaction, it’s quite a privilege.
Q: Can you tell me a little bit about the support you’ve received at Butcher & Barlow during your training?
A: The support has been excellent. You can progress at your own pace, and if you’re eager to learn, they’re willing to give you responsibilities. You’re supervised, and you have experienced colleagues, Partners and Solicitors in each office to turn to for guidance and support.
Q: Have you found everyone to be approachable, and have you felt comfortable asking questions?
A: Yes, I’ve had a positive experience with the support system. Everyone has been approachable, and I’ve never felt hesitant about asking questions, no matter how simple or complex.
Q: How does Butcher & Barlow balance work and personal life for its team?
A: The Firm is flexible. They allow remote working, which is particularly helpful for those with longer commutes like me. You’re encouraged to schedule appointments and manage your workload within office hours, and you’re not expected to work ridiculously long hours.
Q: Can you tell us about the collaborative culture at Butcher & Barlow, working across departments and offices?
A: Collaboration is encouraged. In the Frodsham office, for example, we may have a probate sale and if we have questions or need assistance, we can easily reach out to colleagues in the Probate team, either within my office or elsewhere across the Firm. It keeps everything streamlined and client focused.
Q: Have you worked elsewhere in the legal field, and how does it compare to your experience at Butcher & Barlow?
A: Before Butcher & Barlow, I worked as a legal assistant in a personal injury firm. While the roles are obviously different, I’ve found Butcher & Barlow to be a much more supportive and rewarding environment.
Q: Do you have any advice for aspiring young lawyers?
A: My advice is not to give up. The hard work pays off, and the end goal is definitely worth it.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Butcher & Barlow?
A: I’ve always felt appreciated. They go the extra mile to recognise your achievements, which makes you feel valued and part of a team rather than just another employee. When I qualified, I had calls from several of the senior Partners to congratulate me. Things like that really make you feel appreciated. We’re a large firm with a lot of employees but you’re never made to feel like a faceless name or number. The fact that the Partners took the take to congratulate me I think is indicative of the kind of culture generally at Butcher & Barlow – we’re all part of the same team working together. I also got a qualification treat of a meal at a Michelin star restaurant and a night away – you can’t ask for much more of a reward than that!
My three words to describe Butcher & Barlow are: supportive, friendly and fair.