Laura Roberts

In the ADL team, the scale of the work and the number of jurisdictions we work with would not normally be something available to graduates in Belfast…

Having graduated from Queen’s University in 2012 with an LLB in Law, the opportunity arose to be part of one of the most innovative and forward-thinking law firms in the world – right here in Belfast.

During my time here, I have learned how to apply the theoretical aspects of my LLB and build upon that knowledge in a commercially viable way. I attended the University of Law course, which was excellent and provided me with a very detailed introduction to the type of work we would be doing and the necessary skills to complete such tasks.

Advanced Delivery Legal supports the wider Allen & Overy network and is a team comprising over 80 LPs and 12 associates, with Angela Clist as its head. For me, what is so great and different about the LSC is that you gain a very broad range of technical experience and always feel that you have a great network of support around you.

I am a part of our ADL ICM team, which works directly with numerous offices within the A&O network on a range of tasks and projects. My knowledge of ICM has grown immensely, enabling me to assist with more complex and challenging matters. The experience I have gained has allowed me to effectively manage the ICM team in Belfast and train new team members each year.

I attended A&O’s ICM University, where I met fellow colleagues and learned about different ICM practice groups. In January, I had the opportunity to attend the ICM Offsite in Paris, which was invaluable, as I was able to promote the ADL team and catch up with colleagues from other offices whom I had assisted throughout the year. I am currently pursuing a qualification with the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx).

I have also benefited from periods of secondment in our London office, our New York office, as well as clients’ offices.

A&O has provided me exciting opportunities and I have not looked back. From the very beginning I have been challenged to better myself and reflect on my own personal learning (both academic and extracurricular) to show that I have what it takes to be an LP for A&O’s ADL team.

I am proud to say that I work for A&O’s Advanced Delivery team. The office environment is very friendly and collegiate. A&O recognises the benefit of encouraging departments to socialise together, which, in turn, is a key factor in developing new relationships.