Finley Rogers
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Coodes LLP
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I am currently a Senior Secretary at Coodes working towards my studies which will be the SQE pathway. I graduated in late July but prior to this I was already working for Nalders LLP from the 1st July. I was operating in Wills & Probate and Conveyancing at Nalders. Due to Coodes’ prospective study opportunities I moved and began work within the Family Team on the 7th of January 2025.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
Before university my goal was to become a Marine Biologist but I found myself fascinated by Supreme Court Judgements and Chancery Law. This lead me to studying Law and Business at the University. Family Law, as a general principle, is particularly rewarding. When client’s express their gratitude at times of great difficulty this tops the enjoyment charts. On a more practical level, I have perpetually been attracted to advocacy and Family Law provides the opportunity to do just that.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
I thoroughly enjoyed our year one mock trials. This was built up to be a prestigious event and it was. A real taste of where I needed to be aiming.
What did you most enjoy about studying here?
Location. I have never been a city person. Notwithstanding the quality of education, living in Cornwall was superb.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I was attracted in a locational sense, particularly to Falmouth however it was the university’s reputation which was a deciding factor.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Absorption of knowledge- there is a lot to learn in law and university is a deep dive into theory however practice is a different breed.
Organisation- this is a non negotiable aspect of any legal role.
Prioritisation- Family law is hectic and the ability to compare, prioritise and execute is really crucial.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Be a sponge. The more you learn the better you will understand the broader application of the law within England and Wales.
Look into current affairs readily. Be that the FT, New York Times, BBC News or the Law Society updates. This is the best way to begin learning holistically.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans are clear. I wish to qualify via the SQE. Whether that will be in family is a different story as I am yet to sample Corporate and Commercial. Long term my plan is to work up to a partner/board member. It has been a bit of a dream to look towards the BAR and chase a potential route as a barrister, time sensitive of course!! This will infringe upon my work and development as a solicitor however I feel as if I have always looked toward the BAR as the end goal.
