08/07/2026
At Russell & Russell, we are proud to play a part in shaping someone’s legal career, from their very first role right through to qualifying and beyond. Our latest staff spotlight is a perfect example.
Natasha Harford joined the firm in 2024 as a paralegal supporting our family law public team in Bury, and is now a Trainee Solicitor, shortly due to fully qualify.
Natasha’s path into law took in a degree at Manchester Metropolitan University, her LPC and Master of Laws at the University of Law, and early experience as a conveyancing paralegal before she found her home in family public law. Along the way she was named Bolton Law Society's Trainee Solicitor of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of her hard work and her genuine commitment to the families she supports.
We sat down with Natasha to talk about her route to qualifying, life within the family team, her advice for anyone hoping to follow a similar path, and a few things you might not know about her, from a half marathon for the Alzheimer's Society to a rather surprising second qualification as a dance teacher.
Here is what she had to say.
Natasha’s Journey into Law and to Qualifying
What first drew you to law, and was family law always where you saw yourself ending up?
I have always enjoyed problem-solving and helping people through difficult situations, which naturally drew me towards a career in law. Initially, I was uncertain about which area I wanted to specialise in however after completing the LPC and gaining more practical experience I discovered that family law was the area I wanted to be in. Having worked in public law for a little over two years now I have realised it is where I could make the biggest difference in supporting families during some of the most challenging period of their lives.
Before joining the family public law team, you worked as a conveyancing paralegal. What made you move across into family work, and how did that earlier experience shape the way you work now?
Conveyancing gave me a solid grounding in legal practice and helped me develop strong organisational skills and client communication skills. However, I had always wanted to gain experience in family law and found myself wanting a role where I could build closer relationships with clients and have a more direct impact on people’s lives.
You joined Russell & Russell in 2024 as a paralegal and are now a trainee solicitor shortly due to qualify. How does it feel to be reaching that milestone?
It's a really exciting feeling and one I've worked hard towards for several years. Looking back, it's rewarding to see how much I've learned since joining the firm. Being recognised as Bolton Law Society's Trainee Solicitor of the Year was an unexpected honour and a real confidence boost, and it reinforced that I was on the right path. Qualifying feels like the beginning of the next chapter, and I'm looking forward to continuing to develop my skills as a solicitor.
Family public law can be emotionally demanding work. What have you learned about looking after clients, and yourself, in difficult cases?
I've learned that empathy and clear communication are just as important as legal knowledge. Clients often need someone who will listen, explain things in a way they understand and support them throughout the process. It's equally important to for the team to support each other when dealing with emotionally challenging cases.
Working At Russell & Russell and Within the Family Law Team
How would you describe the family public law team to someone who has never met them?
I'd describe the team as supportive, knowledgeable and approachable. Everyone is willing to share their experience and work together, and there's a genuine focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
What does a typical day look like for you in the Bury office?
It is very difficult to describe a typical day in public family law as no two days are ever the same which I like as it keeps everyday interesting. If a were to describe it a typical day might include speaking with clients, drafting legal documents, preparing court bundles, attending hearings, liaising with barristers and local authorities, and working closely with colleagues to progress cases.
How has the firm supported you in growing from paralegal to trainee to, soon, qualified solicitor?
The firm has given me opportunities to take on increasing levels of responsibility while providing guidance and support whenever I've needed it. I've been encouraged to develop my skills through hands-on experience, supervision and ongoing training, I can recognise in myself how much my confidence has grown since starting with the public family team.
Advice For Others Following the Same Path
What would you say to someone who is just starting their law degree and hopes to qualify as a solicitor one day?
Take every opportunity to gain practical experience. I wish I had completed more practical experience whilst at university as I feel this is the best way in which I learn and develop. I would also so do not worry if you don't have your entire career planned out from day one your views and goals often change as you gain the hands-on experience.
How important is paralegal experience before qualifying, and what did you gain from yours?
For me, it was invaluable. It gave me practical insight into how legal matters are handled day to day, improved my confidence with clients and helped me develop the skills needed to transition into a training contract. I know I would not be as confident today without the prior paralegal experience.
If you could go back and give your university-aged self, one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don't put too much pressure on yourself to have everything figured out or to reach carer milestone by a certain point. Everyone’s journey to qualifying is different, you should not compare yourself to other and take each opportunity as they come.
A Bit More About Natasha
If you hadn’t gone into law, what do you think you would have ended up doing instead?
I think I would have gone into teaching or potentially pursued a career in psychology. I studied psychology at A-Level and has also been an interest of mine. Supporting people has always been something I've enjoyed, whether it's teaching or law, I like helping others develop, overcome challenges and achieve positive outcomes.
Travelling is one of your passions. Where is the best place you have been, and where is next on the list?
One of my favourite places I've visited is Marrakech. I loved the vibrant atmosphere, the souks, the amazing food and the opportunity to experience a completely different culture. I would love to visit Zanzibar, as I'd love to combine the beautiful beaches with going on an African safari. It's a trip I've wanted to do for a long time, and I think it would be an unforgettable experience.
What is something about you that colleagues might be surprised to learn?
People are often surprised to learn that I'm a qualified dance teacher. Dance was something I was passionate about for most of my childhood, and I really enjoy sharing that passion with others. Teaching dance has also helped me develop skills such as communication, patience and confidence, which have proved surprisingly transferable to my career in law.
How do you like to switch off and recharge outside of work?
Running has become one of my favourite ways to switch off outside of work. Last year, I completed the Manchester Half Marathon in support of the Alzheimer's Society, and I was proud to take on the challenge again this year. I'm currently training for a 10K, so having a race to work towards keeps me motivated. I enjoy setting myself new goals and challenging myself both professionally and personally. Alongside running, I love travelling and spending quality time with family and friends.
Looking Ahead
Now that qualification is in sight, what are you most looking forward to as a newly qualified solicitor?
I'm looking forward to taking on greater responsibility, continuing to build strong relationships with clients and developing my expertise within family public law. I’m also excited to keep learning and progressing in my career.
In one line, what would you say to someone considering Russell & Russell as the place to build their legal career?
It's a supportive firm that encourages professional development and provides an excellent environment to build a rewarding legal career.
Please note that this article is meant as general guidance and not intended as legal or professional advice. Updates to the law may have changed since this article was published.