Opening doors with a law career | George Yates

Opening doors with a law career

George graduated from Durham University with a degree in history and politics and, like many fellow arts degree graduates, found himself drawn to a career in law. "Having grown up in Jersey, among a background of professional services, the idea of working in law was never far from my mind. 

Fundamentally, when working in professional services like law, you are helping clients resolve issues that they don’t have the skills, time or capacity to do themselves. This aspect of problem solving appealed to me from the beginning. After enjoying a vacation scheme at the firm, I was fortunate to be able to join the firm as a trainee. I qualified as an associate in the Private Wealth team and worked there until 2020. 

Working at the firm was a great start to my career. I learned a lot from my trainee supervisor Sasha Erskine, the partners in the team (notably Nick Warr and Sanjvee Shah) and a supportive group of fellow associates. We still network with each other today. One of the fantastic aspects of working offshore is the chance to collaborate with my former colleagues, who have been an invaluable network for me.

While in the Private Wealth team, I was regularly working with trustees and law firms based in Jersey. Renowned for its high-quality offshore jurisdiction and well-established trust industry, Jersey had always been a potential career destination for me. I had a great time living in London and I really enjoyed working at the firm in London, but the offshore lifestyle was not something that the firm could offer me. By the end of 2019, my wife and I decided it was time to leave London behind us and 'head back home'. 

Before moving back, we had planned to go on a memorable trip of a lifetime around the world. Unfortunately, we set off at the start of 2020–not the best year for international travel! We got as far as Fiji before we had to quickly get ourselves on the next flight home. Perhaps we’ll try again and hope for better luck next time." 

The Jersey lawyer

Today, George practises at Ogier–where his primary focus is private wealth, a field he finds fascinating, especially in Jersey. “The majority of our client base comes from the fiduciary service providers on the island, although we also advise individuals and service providers from other jurisdictions where there are touchpoints with Jersey. 

Typically, the work involves advising trustees on their duties, advising on specific transactions and drafting documentation for trusts. We also assist with employee benefit trusts and pensions. Most of the matters we advise on involve multiple jurisdictions, and thanks to Ogier's presence in various offshore locations, we can offer clients a seamless and coordinated approach.” 

One of the differences George has found offshore is the breadth of matters he handles. “There’s a greater exposure to a wider variety of work, and the opportunity to be involved in a range of matters." 

George’s hard work has certainly not gone unnoticed. Recently named a Next Gen Leader by eprivateclient, he sees the award as a sign that his reputation is taking root. “It’s obviously very nice to receive this recognition, and there are high-quality people on those lists, so it’s a real privilege to be included amongst them. On a small island, reputation is everything, so when others notice what you’ve been doing, it's really rewarding.”

Becoming a Jersey Advocate

Practising in Jersey means grappling with a unique legal system. “Jersey law is rooted in Norman customary law and has strong influences from both French civil law and English common law which creates a unique legal system. Trust law in Jersey is primarily influenced by English law, whereas succession and inheritance law are based more on Norman customary and French law. I love the quirks of the Jersey legal system which has developed as an independent jurisdiction over centuries.

Whilst you don’t need to become a Jersey Advocate to practise law here, it helps with your understanding of how everything works. Applicants undertake two years of study and exams. I did this whilst working full-time and also welcoming the arrival of my daughter along the way. I'm not sure the sleepless nights helped with the studying, but it was worth it in the end! Part of being an Advocate in Jersey is getting involved in the traditions of the Jersey courts. For example, at the Assise D'Heritage, an annual ceremonial sitting of the Royal Court, Advocates are required to renew their oaths of office.” 

Life in Jersey

“I had a great childhood in Jersey and that’s something I have always hoped I could provide for my own children. It’s a perfect place to practise private wealth law, and the outdoor lifestyle available on the island really suits me. Whether it’s a cycle around the coast, a walk on the beach with the dog or a run along Jersey's north coast, the appeal of the outdoors is always there. And nothing clears your mind quite like a swim in the sea – especially in the middle of winter! There's a great community in Jersey and you're unlikely to ever be the only person out swimming."

For anyone looking to continue their law career outside of London with high-profile clients in a beautiful part of the world, George can heartily recommend a move to Jersey.

About REACH – The Winston Taylor alumni network

REACH connects everyone who is and has ever been part of Winston Taylor UK and Ireland. It helps our alumni and colleagues to maintain strong connections with each other and to share inspirational stories.