Meet Our Family Law Trainee Solicitor, Maisa Riazi
In our latest Staff Spotlight, we catch up with Maisa Riazi, a Trainee Solicitor in our Family Law Team. Maisa joined Rose & Rose over 18 months ago and supports clients through some of the most personal and challenging periods of their lives. She regularly receives warm praise from clients through independent reviews, including a recommendation from a client who said:
“Can highly recommend. Very responsible and professional, especially Maisa who has been handling my case. I really appreciate her support and all the work she has done for me. Thank you so much.”
Read more Rose & Rose reviews on our client testimonials page.
We spoke to Maisa about her journey into family law, the work she finds most rewarding, and the advice she has for clients thinking about taking their first steps. Maisa also offers advice for others considering a career in law.
You and Your Role at Rose & Rose
What’s your name and job title at Rose & Rose?
Maisa Riazi, Trainee Solicitor
How long have you been part of the Family team here?
1 year 7 months.
In one or two sentences, how would you describe what the Family team does?
The Family team supports clients through some of the most important and challenging periods of their lives, including matters involving divorce, finances, children and domestic arrangements. We provide practical, tailored legal advice while helping clients through what can often be a very emotional and uncertain time.
What made you want to work in family law, rather than another area?
I was drawn to family law because it combines the legal side of the profession with the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives. I enjoy the fact that every case is different and requires not only legal knowledge, but also empathy, communication and an understanding of each client’s individual circumstances.
What’s kept you here at Rose & Rose?
The people and the culture are a big part of what has kept me at Rose & Rose. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues, and develop professionally, while working in a supportive and friendly team.
Your Expertise and the Work You Do
Pet and dog ownership disputes are becoming a bigger part of family separations. What tends to be the most misunderstood part of these matters?
I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that pets are treated in the same way as children in family law. Although pets can be incredibly important members of a family, legally they are generally treated as property rather than as children. That can make these disputes particularly difficult emotionally, as the law doesn’t always reflect the strength of the bond someone has with their pet. Read some my previously published guides for more information: ‘Who Gets the Dog? Pet Custody During Separation’ and ‘Pet Nuptial Agreements: Are They Legally Binding?’
Your Journey into Law and Your Qualifications
What did you study, and where?
I studied my undergraduate degree at Royal Holloway, University of London. I am now studying my LPC and master’s at The University of Law.
What was your route into qualifying, or into your current role?
I had a training contract.
Day-to-Day Life at Rose & Rose
What’s the most rewarding part of the job?
The most rewarding part is knowing that the work we do can have a real and positive impact on our clients’ lives. Family law matters can be incredibly personal and challenging, so being able to support someone through that process, provide clarity and help them move forward is very fulfilling.
What do you think sets the Rose & Rose Family Law team apart from other firms in the way it looks after clients?
I think it’s the combination of expertise and genuinely personal client care. The team takes the time to understand each client’s individual circumstances rather than treating every case in the same way. Clients are given clear, practical advice and are supported throughout the process, which I think makes a real difference when they are dealing with what can be a very stressful and uncertain time.
Advice for Others Following a Similar Path
What advice would you give to a paralegal, trainee or student considering family law as a career?
I would say to keep an open mind and make the most of every opportunity to learn. Family law can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding, particularly because you get to build relationships with clients and make a real difference during important periods of their lives. I’d also say that being approachable, empathetic, and a good communicator is just as important as having strong legal knowledge.
If someone starting at Rose & Rose asked you what makes a good family lawyer, what would you say?
I would say that a good family lawyer needs to be a good listener first and foremost. You need to understand not only the legal issues but also the person behind the case. Empathy, attention to detail, sound judgement and the ability to communicate clearly are all really important, as is being able to remain calm and focused when matters become challenging.
Advice for Clients
If a client is thinking about starting divorce or separation proceedings but hasn’t yet taken the first step, what’s the one thing you would want them to know?
I would want them to know that they don’t have to have everything figured out before seeking advice. Taking that first step can feel daunting, but speaking to a solicitor early on can provide clarity about their options and help them understand what the process might look like, so they can make informed decisions at their own pace.
A Bit More About Maisa
What were you like at school, and which subjects did you enjoy most?
I was hardworking and enjoyed getting involved in different activities at school. My favourite subjects were Drama and Business, as I enjoyed the creativity and confidence that came with Drama, while Business gave me an interest in how organisations work.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
Shopping, spending time with my dog, family and friends, and travelling.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what do you think you’d be doing?
I think I’d probably be doing something on TV. I’ve always enjoyed communicating with people and being in front of an audience, so I could see myself working in television, perhaps presenting or doing something where I could connect with and engage with people.
Interested in Working with Maisa or Joining the Team?
If you would like to speak to Maisa or another member of our Family Law Team about a divorce, separation, financial settlement, child arrangement or other family matter, please visit our Family Law page or get in touch through our contact page or by emailing info@roselegal.co.uk. You can also read more about Maisa on her Meet the Team profile.
If you are interested in building a career in law and joining the Rose & Rose team, please take a look at our Careers page for current opportunities.
