Tara Dunne

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Trinity Chambers

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I completed the Barrister training course before becoming a Family Law Paralegal in a law firm in London. I then obtained the role as a County Court Advocate, presenting oral submissions in court on a range of civil law matters. In 2022 I joined a legal tech company, OurFamilyWizard as their Legal Associate before obtaining pupillage at Trinity Chambers in Chelmsford which I started in April 2024.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

Successfully persuading people to my view in both legal and non-legal environments led me to conclude that I could and wanted to provide individuals with a voice who need support seeking justice. Aside from the oral advocacy, I enjoy the varied nature of my work – no day is the same and each case and client are very different and you must adapt accordingly.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The pro bono opportunities and the ability to pick electives in both second and third year.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Exeter has leading academics in law, particularly family law.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Do not underestimate the importance of the skills that you have developed in non-legal environments. Use these to your advantage.

What are your plans for the future?

I hope to obtain tenancy at my chambers and develop a successful family law practice.