Graham Linter has spent over a decade working in the local authority – first with children’s services, then transitioning to the legal team at Hampshire County Council seven years ago. As a legal assistant, he assists with the court process, drafts legal documents and takes ownership of complex legal work that directly impacts vulnerable children and families.
Taking the first step
In 2024, Graham pursued a level 3 paralegal apprenticeship with Damar Training. He was the first person in his team to undertake this type of apprenticeship. With support from his coach, Leah Brogan, Graham built his legal knowledge from the ground up.
The apprenticeship transformed not just his technical skills but his entire approach to work. He learned legal research techniques, developed critical thinking about complex cases and gained confidence to trust his own judgment. “The apprenticeship has helped massively in enabling me to think on my feet and resolve issues whereas previously I would have been quite reliant on going to my manager,” he explains.
His manager, Rebecca, noticed the change. Graham was no longer simply executing instructions – he was making thoughtful suggestions and developing his own legal strategies. By late summer 2025, Graham had completed his paralegal apprenticeship with a distinction. His original plan was to take a six month break before considering the next step toward becoming a solicitor.
Getting critical careers advice and guidance
When Graham heard about impending changes to the level 7 apprenticeship funding, he felt anxious about his long-term career goals. His coach Leah referred him to Hannah Bennett, Damar’s CEIAG Coordinator, who could help him navigate this critical decision point.
Hannah spoke with Graham about what the funding changes meant for his future. If he didn’t progress to the solicitor apprenticeship now, future funding was uncertain – potentially jeopardising his ability to qualify.
She discussed three potential pathways, including the solicitor apprenticeship. She provided detailed information about each option and advised Graham to create a pros and cons list to help him think through the decision.
Hannah answered multiple questions from both Graham and his line manager, ensuring they both fully understood what each pathway would entail so that they could make an informed decision with realistic expectations.
Her approach gave Graham something invaluable: confidence in the path forward. While the funding changes accelerated the timeline, Graham is clear that the destination was always the same. With Hannah’s guidance, Graham and Rebecca decided the solicitor apprenticeship was the best route to achieve his long-term goals.
The impact
In December 2025, Graham began his solicitor apprenticeship with Damar Training. While he admits to feeling nervous about the exams ahead, he also feels prepared with the support of Damar Training and his employer.
Graham’s goals for this next phase are clear. He wants to develop his advocacy skills and improve his court presentation abilities – skills that will allow him to represent his client department more effectively. His unique background, moving from social work into law, gives him a perspective that many traditionally-trained solicitors don’t have.
“My role is helping families.” His decade of experience on the social work side means he understands the human reality behind every legal case.
Looking back, Graham recognises how far he’s come from that legal assistant who lacked confidence. The level 3 paralegal apprenticeship gave him technical knowledge and self-assurance. Hannah’s intervention at a critical moment ensured he could continue progressing. Now, the solicitor apprenticeship takes him to the next level – proof that alternative pathways into the legal profession bring valuable perspectives.