Nadia Abedin | Senior Crown Prosecutor

 

What is your favourite memory from your time with us?

One of my favourite memories is actually quite simple - playing table tennis after workshops. The course could be intense, so having that space to switch off, laugh with others, and build friendships made a real difference. It’s those small, human moments that made the experience so memorable.

Share a piece of advice from a lecturer or classmate that has stayed with you?

A lecturer once encouraged us to always give 100% in everything we do. The idea was that if you consistently put in your full effort, then on the occasions where things don’t go perfectly, you still know you did everything you could. That mindset has stayed with me and shaped how I approach both my work and challenges in my career.

What has been the best development in your field since you qualified?

The most significant development for me has been my own career journey - qualifying as a corporate lawyer and then making the move into criminal prosecution. It wasn’t the obvious path, but it’s been the most meaningful. It’s allowed me to work on cases that have a real impact on people’s lives and showed me that a legal career doesn’t have to be linear to be successful.

And the worst....?

One of the biggest challenges in the legal profession is the level of pressure and responsibility that comes with the role. Whether in private practice or public service, the workload and expectations can be intense. It highlights the importance of resilience, but also the need for better support and balance across the profession.

If you could bring in one new piece of legislation in your sector, what would it be and why?

I would support continued development of frameworks that promote wellbeing and resilience within the legal profession, particularly in demanding roles such as prosecution. Ensuring that legal professionals are well supported enables them to carry out their responsibilities effectively and maintain the high standards required within the justice system.

What advice would you give to someone starting the course you studied?

Throw yourself into it fully - attend everything, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to speak up, even when you’re unsure. Some of the most valuable learning comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Also, take the time to build relationships - the people around you will be a huge part of your journey.

How did your course prepare you for your career?

My course gave me a strong foundation in both the theory and practical application of law. Studying areas like business law and choosing relevant electives meant I could transition into corporate law with confidence. More importantly, it taught me how to think like a lawyer - a skill that has been invaluable, particularly when I later moved into criminal law.

Tell us something people may be surprised to know about you...

People are often surprised that I started my career in corporate law and then chose to move into criminal prosecution. It wasn’t the conventional route, but it’s been the most rewarding decision I’ve made. It reflects how versatile a legal education can be - and that it’s okay to redefine your path.