A real estate specialist at Midlands law firm mfg Solicitors has qualified as a solicitor after successfully completing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), alongside working full time at the firm.

Victoria Cairns-Terry, who joined the firm in 2024, has completed the two-year qualification and now joins mfg’s Real Estate team as a qualified solicitor. Based at the firm’s Worcester and Bromsgrove offices, the 26-year-old is working closely with partners Ruth Bourton and Emma Chater, together with senior associate, Lauren Powers.

Victoria Cairns-Terry said: “After completing my law degree in 2021 I was determined to qualify as a solicitor but also continue to work whilst I completed my qualification.

“The SQE route gave me the opportunity to gain invaluable day-to-day experience while studying without following the traditional training contract route. But vitally, it allowed me to concentrate on learning as much as possible about property and building my practical skills.

“It has been a great option, and I’d recommend it to anyone who is keen to take the same route to becoming a qualified solicitor. I am extremely grateful to the firm for being so supportive and accommodating with my study leave. Without their backing it wouldn’t have been possible.”

Ruth Bourton, partner within the Real Estate department, added: "Victoria has shown real commitment and determination throughout the whole process, successfully balancing the demands of working full time and the challenges studying brings.

"Her achievement is thoroughly deserved and reflects the dedication she has shown to both her studies and her work. We are delighted to welcome her as a qualified solicitor within the team."

The SQE was introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority as a new route to qualifying. It enables aspiring solicitors to gain invaluable work experience while studying and completing a series of demanding assessments covering both legal knowledge and practical legal skills.

Readers looking for real estate advice can email Victoria at victoria.terry@mfgsolicitors.com.

mfg Solicitors has offices in Worcester, Birmingham, Kidderminster, Bromsgrove, the Black Country, Ludlow and Telford.