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When the world shut down in 2020, many faced uncertainty. For Victoria Martyn, it marked the start of a life completely rebuilt from scratch. Today, she stands as a Chartered Legal Executive and CILEX Lawyer in private client law at Tozers. The journey she took was defined not by straight lines, but by courage, reinvention and an unwavering belief that it is never too late to become the person you aspire to be.
Her story embodies the International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, showing how giving yourself permission to start again and giving others hope through your example, creates opportunity not just for one woman, but for many who follow.
A New Beginning at 30
Victoria’s path to law didn’t begin in a lecture hall. In her early twenties, she moved to Spain, where she built a successful English Academy, teaching both children and adults. But when the pandemic hit, her life changed overnight. She returned to the UK, without a degree, without professional qualification, and facing the daunting task of starting over.
But one dream had remained untouched:
“Before Spain, my plan was to become a lawyer.”
The question was how to make that dream possible now.
Finding a Different Way In
At 30, Victoria secured a temporary role as a legal secretary in the private client team at Wollens Solicitors. During her interview, a partner mentioned CILEX as an alternative to university – an option that sparked something familiar within her.
University fees were too high. Starting a full-time degree ten years later than most didn’t feel right. And she couldn’t afford to stop working.
CILEX, however, offered:
- - A route that worked around her life
- - Control over her pace of study
- - Practical experience alongside learning
- - A qualification that led to the same destination: qualifying as a lawyer
Victoria began with the legacy Level 3 qualification in 2021, then moved onto CPQ, and completed both the Advanced and Professional stages. In just four and a half years – while working full time – she gained everything she needed to qualify.
Her firm recognised her talent early, progressing her to Paralegal within a year and later funding her studies.
“CILEX allowed me to restart my life without accruing high debt and qualify in my own timescales.”
Growing in Knowledge, Confidence and Purpose
Through CPQ and hands-on work, Victoria built a strong foundation, not just in private client law, but in how the legal system functions across multiple practice areas. Studying while working gave her a dual advantage:
- - Academic knowledge, grounded in structured learning
- - Real-world insight, gained daily in the office
This combination accelerated her confidence, her capability and her career progression. Now at Tozers, she is thriving.
"I'm doing what I love with a bright future ahead of me and endless possibilities."
What CILEX Represents to Her: Opportunity, Flexibility, Independence
Victoria describes becoming a CILEX member as unlocking doors she once thought were closed:
- - A pathway for people who didn't go to university
- - A chance for individuals restarting their careers
- - An option for those who simply can't afford the traditional route
- - A route that acknowledges real-life responsibilities and commitments
Her journey proves that the profession is richer when it welcomes diverse experiences and backgrounds, and when talent isn’t limited by traditional expectations.
A message for Future Lawyers
Victoria is refreshingly candid about the reality of choosing a legal career later in life:
“CILEX isn’t the route for everyone, but it is a wonderful option that can absolutely be the right path for many.”
Her advice?
- - Don't let age, circumstances or fear put limits on your ambitions
- - Explore all routes before deciding
- - Choose a path that fits you're life - not someone else's
For those worried about debt, or who need to work while studying, she is clear:
“If you’re starting later in life or just don’t want university debt lingering over you and you want to gain the practical know how as well as the academic knowledge – CILEX is an amazing option.”
A story of Giving to Gain
Victoria’s journey is ultimately one of generosity – giving herself permission to try again, giving her future a second chance and giving others a powerful example of what’s possible.
In doing so, she has gained a new career, a renewed confidence and a life aligned with purpose.