Shahnaz Farid | Criminal Defence Solicitor

 

What is your favourite memory from your time with us?

My favourite memory from studying the LPC LLM at Guildford was knowing that every challenge brought me one step closer to achieving my dream of qualifying as a criminal defence solicitor. The friendships I made, the support from my lecturers, and the sense of accomplishment on completing the course are memories I will always treasure.

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

One piece of advice that has stayed with me came from my Business lecturer, Hayley. She was always incredibly supportive and believed in me, even when I doubted myself. As a mature student, a single mother, and someone who struggled with imposter syndrome, her encouragement to trust my abilities and keep going meant more than she probably realised. It reminded me that perseverance and self-belief are just as important as academic ability.

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

One of the best developments in criminal defence since I qualified has been the increased use of technology to improve access to justice. Remote conferences, digital case papers, and electronic evidence have made it easier to prepare cases efficiently and communicate with clients, while still ensuring they receive high-quality representation. When used effectively, these developments allow solicitors to spend more time focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

And the worst....?

The worst development has been the continued pressure on the criminal justice system, particularly the impact of legal aid funding cuts. Criminal defence solicitors play a vital role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring everyone has access to justice, but increasing workloads and limited resources make that role ever more challenging. I hope to see greater investment in criminal legal aid to ensure the profession remains sustainable and that everyone can receive the representation they deserve.

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

If I could introduce one new piece of legislation, it would be a Legal Aid Sustainability Act to ensure that criminal legal aid is properly funded and regularly reviewed. Access to justice should never depend on a person's financial circumstances. Adequate funding would help ensure that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation while supporting the long-term sustainability of the criminal defence profession.

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

Believe in yourself, even when you doubt your abilities. The course is demanding, but perseverance, organisation, and asking for help when you need it will carry you through. Don't compare your journey to anyone else's focus on learning, stay resilient, and remember why you started. The hard work is worth it.

How did your course prepare you for your career?

The LPC LLM gave me a strong foundation in both legal knowledge and practical skills. It taught me how to think critically, solve problems under pressure, and approach cases with professionalism and confidence. Most importantly, it reinforced the importance of ethics, client care, and resilience qualities that are essential in my role as a criminal defence solicitor.

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

People are often surprised to learn that I completed the LPC LLM as a mature student while raising my children as a single mother. It was a challenging journey, but one that taught me resilience, determination, and the importance of never giving up on your goals.

 

Read our blog to learn more about Shahnaz's experience at The University of Law.