Career Stories – Melody Ogbebor
Meet Melody!
Melody joined Osborne Morris & Morgan Solicitors in 2021 as a Paralegal and qualified as a Solicitor in September 2022. She currently works within our Wills, Lasting Power of Attorney & Probate department. She graduated with an LLB in Law at the University of Portsmouth in 2017 and LPC LLM at the University of Law in 2018.
Melody shares her career story, what she likes most about OM&M’s culture, and what advice she would give to someone looking to start a career in Probate.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
My name is Melody, and I am a Solicitor in the Probate Department here at Osborne Morris & Morgan (OM&M). I joined the firm and qualified as a Solicitor in September 2022. I started off my legal career as a Paralegal with a focus solely on Wills and Probate.
As for my hobbies and interests, I am an avid traveller and enjoy exploring different places and getting a taste of different culture. I also enjoy writing, going out with friends, tucking into thrilling romance books and watching films and TV shows.
What inspired you to start a career in Probate?
I’ve always had an affinity for helping people navigate tough spots and Probate is an area where we navigate the toughest spot of all – dealing with the bereavement of a loved one. It’s a pleasure to assist, to navigate and help our clients to deal with the highs and the lows from the beginning to the very end and it’s something I don’t take for granted. We are often the first port of call for our clients when the unthinkable happens and it can often be so consuming and confusing having to deal with managing grief and managing matters that are so delicate.
What stood out to you about OMM when applying for opportunities?
It was important to me to join a firm that really cared about their employees and puts their clients first, OM&M does just that. It’s a really forward-looking firm and supports the local community in a number of ways. From supporting local charities to getting involved in sponsoring local sports & music clubs.
What do you enjoy most about working at OMM?
Our team. We have cultivated a great team that strives to put our clients at the centre of all that we do, because they are our number one priority. Our clients are someone’s Dad, someone’s Mother, someone’s Grandma, someone’s Granddad or someone’s child. We’ve developed a safe space where we can all work collaboratively to further matters and grow the department. It’s one of my favourite things about working at OM&M.
What is the culture like at OM&M?
Friendly. Compassionate. Hard working. I feel like the company ensures that every single person (irrespective of seniority) feels valued and they are adding something (big or small) to the furtherance of the business as a whole. I feel that’s incredibly important and it was one of the first things I noticed when I joined OMM in September 2021.
What single factor was the most important when you chose to join OMM?
Growth of the firm and the training and progression opportunities I’ve had since working here. They always put their staff first and have created a very inclusive culture.
What is a “normal day” like in your role?
No two days are the same! Every day is different working on a number of client matters, and that’s what I love about my job. I’m constantly learning and supporting clients when they need our guidance and tailored advice most.
What advice would you give someone looking to start their legal qualification?
My route into law was slightly unconventional as I was part of the firms that were forced to close by the SRA in August 2020. I think the main takeaway I learnt was to never be afraid to start again and to be open to the various routes of qualifications. Take your time to research your options and don’t be afraid to look into the different specialisms of law. Back in 2020, I would’ve thought that the only route to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales was via a training contract.
What would you be if you weren’t a Solicitor?
I would say either a journalist or an author as I love writing.
Read more about Melody on her Team Member page.
Get in touch today
Here at Osborne Morris & Morgan, we have a dedicated team of Wills & LPA specialists who are prepared to work around you and your commitments, at a time to suit you. Speak to our expert team today on 01525 378177 or email us at info@ommlaw.co.uk.