Award-winning Paralegal

Celebrating yet another victory, Smith Partnership wholeheartedly praise Emma Symes-Goodman for being recognised as ‘Trainee/ Paralegal of the Year’ in the 2025 Leicestershire Law Society Awards.

Her achievements and significant impact on the legal profession have not only set her apart from the rest of the talented nominees, but have successfully led to her acquiring a title that makes us incredibly proud. She kindly dedicates a “massive thank you to Smith Partnership and all [her] colleagues’’, as she states, “I wouldn’t be where I am without their ongoing support and encouragement.”

As a Private Client Paralegal, Emma’s work varies every day. Ranging from assisting with initial contact with new clients and preparing probate applications, she also deals with drafting wills and administrating estate work. Despite only being with the firm for over a year, Emma leaves a lasting impression on both her colleagues and clients. Her willingness to go above and beyond is positively documented through her testimonials; 

“Even though we have not met it’s been a pleasure. Very prompt and on the ball for every email I have sent you. I'll be sorry not to deal with you anymore. Thank you for your input into it all.”

“Thank you Emma for all the support to reach where we are, it could not have been possible without your work and colleagues. It is much appreciated by all of us.”

Equally celebrated by her colleagues, Emma has received a pool of congratulations regarding her award. Della Phillips, Branch Manager of our Leicester office, applauds her ‘superstar colleague’ for being ‘crowned’ Paralegal of the Year. As a finalist for Solicitor of the Year herself, Della proudly acknowledges Emma’s victory, as she understands the competitive nature of the Leicestershire Law Society Awards. 

In addition to her work at Smith Partnership, Emma devotes her legal expertise to support aspiring law students. She has participated in careers events at Fullhurst Community College, where she talks about what it’s like to pursue a career in law. Hoping to inspire the next generations of solicitors, she assists students with their A- Level choices, as well as GCSE’s, exploring the options and routes available to them. In addition, Emma’s dedication to help others is shown through her involvement of charity fundraising within our Leicester office. As a Charity Champion, she organises various fundraising events to raise money for their chosen charity of the year: Hope Against Cancer. Following last year’s impressive total of £270.47 for Menphys Charity, we know Emma and the Leicester office will continue to fundraise and advocate for good causes.

On top of this, through the support and encouragement of Smith Partnership, Emma continues her studies at The University of Law, where she will sit her Solicitors Qualifying Exams this year. As a firm, we are always rooting for the success of our employees, so it is without a doubt that Emma will achieve great things throughout her career.