A Newport-based solicitor has been appointed as chair of the Junior Lawyer Division for south east Wales.

Carys Jones, from Watkins & Gunn Solicitors, has been elected as chair after demonstrating her commitment to the JLD, a committee which represents all law students, paralegals, trainees, legal executives, solicitors and barristers with up to five years qualifications in Cardiff and south east Wales.

As chair, she will organise and chair regular committee meetings and will oversee all activities.

She will work with the committee to attract new members, organise useful and well-attended events, and provide considered opinions on issues affecting junior lawyers.

Ms Jones joined the JLD after she was successful in securing a training contract with award-winning law firm Watkins & Gunn in 2014, after completing a law degree from Swansea University and an LPC at Cardiff University.

In 2014, Ms Jones was appointed as the JLD’s High Street Firms Representative for the 2014 to 2015 committee.

Carys Jones said: “I’m thrilled to have been made chair of the committee. There are a huge number of junior lawyers in this region and the JLD is important because it gives them a voice in relation to issues which affect them.

“It is a great networking tool and helps junior lawyers to build relationships with those in a similar position to themselves. The first few years in a career in law can be particularly demanding so this support network can be very comforting and helpful.

“We also arrange training and talks to provide careers advice and help with obtaining the training contract, which is a real challenge for most junior lawyers.

“During my time as chair, I hope our membership continues to grow and that we run helpful and enjoyable, well-attended events. We are an enthusiastic committee and have many exciting things in the pipeline so I am sure that we will achieve these goals.”

Clive Thomas, managing partner of Watkins & Gunn Solicitors, said: “We are delighted that Carys has had her efforts and commitment to the legal profession recognised by being elected as chair. Since her initial interview with us, she has demonstrated a real passion and enthusiasm for the legal sector and we know she will be a huge asset to the committee in her new role.

“Carys is one of the new breed who understand the wide range of skills that you need to be a successful modern lawyer. I think that Carys and the rest of the committee will do a fantastic job in supporting and inspiring the next generation of young lawyers."