Tanya Kaka – Career journey
- What is your current role at BBK?
I am a Trainee Solicitor currently completing my third seat in our Complex Injury department. My first seat was in our Child Brain Injury department, and I was seconded out to an Employment law firm for my second seat. I am due to qualify in October 2025.
- What was your first role at BBK?
I started off as a Paralegal in the Spinal Injury team in January 2023 before securing my Training Contract in April 2024.
- Did you work anywhere before joining BBK?
I worked in-house as a Legal Assistant at a charity assisting General Counsel.
- What was your education background?
I went to a British secondary school in Dubai where I completed my GCSEs and A-Levels. I then did my undergraduate Law (LLB) degree at the University of Warwick.
- What further training or further exams did you need to complete after school or university?
I had to complete the Legal Practitioners Course (LPC) which I did online because of COVID. At the time, the SQE was too new and unfamiliar and so I opted for the LPC.
- What attracted you to your chosen career?
Having undergone a major surgery in my early teenage years, I grew an appreciation of how vulnerable and fragile the human body can be at an earlier age than most. I was fortunate enough to not have any negligence associated with my surgery but the idea of anyone suffering with a life changing injury which could have been prevented is something that really strikes a chord with me.
- What is the most satisfying part of your role?
Seeing clients through some of the lowest points in their lives and being a source of support as they learn to adapt to life following their life-changing injury. In particular, seeing the benefits of rehab packages which we were able to secure funding for by way of interim payments.
- What advice would you give to someone considering the same career route as you?
I would recommend working as a Paralegal or another non-trainee junior role before applying for your Training Contract to confirm this is the area of law you want to qualify into. At BBK, and many other injury law firms, they only accept Trainees who have been Paralegals previously. It is not an easy practice area, you see people at their lowest of lows, but it is incredibly rewarding work and absolutely worth pursuing if you think it could be for you!
