Former Ballerina Stars for Williamsons By Julian Woodford

Former dancer Gemma Foster has swapped Drury Lane for Chancery Lane and become a fully qualified solicitor. Ms Foster, a trainee at Williamsons Solicitors since 2008, has been appointed to the Hull firm's family department following a two-year training contract. While her Law Society graduation at Chancery Lane on July 26 marked the official start of her professional legal career, it also brought back memories of her 18 years in dancing. Ms Foster trained at a ballet school in Driffield between the ages of 3 and 21 and performed around the country, including at the York Theatre Royal and the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.

'It was always my intention to become a professional ballerina and train at The Royal Ballet School, but law took over,' she said. 'However, my experience in teaching dance and choreography to young children and teenagers is now proving to be of direct benefit to my work as a family law solicitor as it helps me to empathise with them and understand their needs.' Originally from Driffield, Ms Foster graduated with a law degree from Lancaster University in 2005 followed by a Legal Practice Certificate from the College of Law, York, in 2006. 'Family law has always appealed to me because it aims to help parents and children in need,' said Ms Foster, whose caseload includes domestic violence, removal of children without consent and residence and contact orders. Head of department, Sarah Clubley, who is also from Driffield, said that Williamsons is always looking to train and retain top quality solicitors. 'Gemma is a committed young woman who joins a talented and experienced team in the family department,' she said.

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