Freeths Spotlight: A Young Apprentice’s Path to a Career in Law

At just 19 years old, Hanan Bayanoni has already built an impressive record of community leadership and volunteering, all of which has shaped her journey to becoming a solicitor apprentice. Originally from Luton, she relocated to Freeths’ Oxford office, where she is part of the Clinical Negligence team.

Hanan has long been driven by a desire to support others. Throughout high school and sixth form, she took on roles that deepened her interest collaboration and problem solving: serving as a youth councillor, leading mental health campaigns, mentoring young people, and even supporting her younger brother’s business, a coding platform for children. She was also the first UK Young Ambassador for Inspiring Girls – a charity that is dedicated to raising and championing the aspirations of young girls worldwide. Her commitment to community work was recognised when she received the Young Female Award at the 2024 Women of Inspiration Awards.

These experiences made law feel like a natural fit. Legal work experience confirmed the profession aligned with her strengths and interests, and it was through Young Professionals events that she discovered solicitor apprenticeships – a route that “immediately appealed”. Learning directly from experienced fee earners, gaining hands-on experience, and avoiding student debt were all factors, but equally important was the ability to apply her academic learning straight into real cases.

Hanan’s first months at Freeths have been rewarding. She is already contributing to complex matters within her team and was pleased to receive a Freeths star award within her first six months at the firm. Over the next four years, she will complete her law degree while working in Clinical Negligence, before rotating seats and progressing through the SQE. Her goal is clear: to qualify at Freeths and continue contributing to meaningful work for clients.

Her advice to aspiring apprentices is grounded in her own path. She strongly encourages volunteering to build soft skills, particularly communication, which are essential for applications and for day-to-day work. She also advises researching firms thoroughly, exploring their news, social media and employee insights. And when it comes to interviews? “Treat them like normal conversations with friends – it will calm your nerves and help you perform better.”