Lewis Dean
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Magdalen Chambers
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
The decision to change careers was prompted by the pandemic. Like many others, Covid-19 forced me to pause and reassess my path. After over a decade working as a private nanny, I realised the skills I had developed were transferable and could be valuable in a completely different context. Seeking a new challenge where I could use my voice to make a difference, I took the leap.
That’s what led me to the Bar, and specifically to family law. I’ve always been someone who speaks up, and advocacy felt like the natural next step. What I enjoy most now is the variety of work as no two days are the same and the continuous opportunities to learn and grow.
Were you a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
I was treasurer of the University of Exeter Law Society.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
What I enjoyed most about the programme was the variety of modules on offer and the opportunity to learn from passionate and knowledgeable academics and legal professionals. I also really valued the chance to get involved with pro bono work, which helped bring the theory to life and gave real purpose to what we were learning.
Graduation was without doubt the biggest highlight. As a career changer, it marked not just the end of the degree, but the beginning of a new chapter.
What did you most enjoy about studying here?
The city is fantastic, and the campus and community it offers are unparalleled. Plus, the surf in North Devon is some of the best around!
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
The surf!
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
The skills and experiences that have been most useful in my career include working with people from all walks of life. This has helped me develop a strong sense of empathy and understanding of the challenges many face. Additionally, my ability to stay adaptable and keep up to date with the ever-changing legal landscape has been crucial.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Be open to all the opportunities university has to offer. Don’t feel pressured into thinking you have to fit a specific mould to succeed. There is real power in your own story. Embrace it and be proud of it. Your unique experiences and perspective will set you apart.
What are your plans for the future?
I am looking forward to building a successful family law practice in the South West with Magdalen Chambers.
