Meet the Team | Anna Ferro from the Beaconsfield office

Written by Anna Ferro

Introduction

In this new series, #MeetTheTeamMonday, we will introduce you to the exceptional people that make KJS experts in family law.

This week, we'd like you to meet Anna Ferro, a senior partner and the head of our Beaconsfield Office. Get to know Anna better from her insightful repsonses to the questions below.

1. Can you share a bit about your role at K J Smith, and what you enjoy most about it?

As a Senior Partner and Head of Beaconsfield Office, I have the great privilege of leading a dedicated team in Family Law as well as overseeing our Wills and Probate Team within the office. I love every bit of my work and role, which is made super special by the team and the synergy and camaraderie shared by the team, by working with inspiring and unique local clients in a fabulously characteristic listed building nestled in the heart of the gorgeous, picturesque Old Town of Beaconsfield. My role at K J Smith is a source of pride. I feel incredibly fortunate to lead such a wonderful team and to serve our remarkable clients in such a beautiful setting.

2. What do you think sets K J Smith apart from others in the legal industry?

The passion, knowledge, skills, ethos and dedication of the entire team sets us truly apart and enables us to deliver the highest level of service to our clients.

What sets K J Smith apart from others in the legal industry is the remarkable synergy of passion, knowledge, skills, ethos, and dedication that permeates every aspect of our firm. From the top-down, our leadership is driven by a relentless commitment to excellence and a deep-seated passion for advocating on behalf of our clients. This passion fuels our collective pursuit of legal knowledge, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of our field and deliver nothing short of the highest level of service.

But it's not just about individual expertise—it's about the collaborative spirit that defines us as a team. Each member of our staff brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, enriching our collective knowledge and enhancing our ability to address even the most complex legal challenges.

Moreover, our firm's ethos is rooted in integrity, excellent, empathy, transparency, teamwork and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. We understand that navigating legal matters on a relationship breakdown or following the death of loved one can be daunting, which is why we go above and beyond to provide personalized support and guidance every step of the way.

Ultimately, it's this winning combination of passion, knowledge, skills, ethos, and dedication that truly sets K J Smith apart in the legal industry. It's what enables us to not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients, earning their trust and loyalty time and time again.

3. What’s the most unexpected thing you’ve learnt since joining K J Smith?

One of the most unexpected lessons I've learned since joining KJ Smith is how vital it is to appreciate the best in people, to talk and share, and to work as a team. The impact of fostering genuine connections and camaraderie within our team is profound. When I first walked through the doors of KJ Smith, I expected to immerse myself in the intricacies of legal practice and cases and continue to develop my personal practice and expertise. While I've certainly accomplished that, what took me by surprise was the realization of just how crucial it is to appreciate and encourage the best in people, to engage in open dialogue, and to share experiences.

Being part of this brilliant, knowledgeable, passionate, and ambitious team has been nothing short of transformative. I've discovered the immense power of collaboration and collective wisdom—a synergy that transcends individual capabilities and propels us toward shared goals.

And what is truly remarkable is the unwavering support and investment in our people from our management. The positive impetus gained from their passionate drive to nurture talent and foster a culture of continuous development and growth is palpable. It's no wonder that our firm has been recognized with the prestigious Platinum award, the highest accolade from Investors in People, following last year's Gold.

I've witnessed firsthand how a positive attitude and constructive feedback can enhance performance and elevate morale. The culture of encouragement and recognition that permeates our workplace serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, inspiring each team member to strive for excellence. I have come to really appreciate that success isn't just about individual achievements—it's about the collective journey we undertake as a team. And it's through this journey, fuelled by the unwavering support of our management and the positive energy of our colleagues, that we not only achieve our goals but exceed them.

4. If you could describe our team culture in three words, what would they be?

Above and beyond!

5. What's the most interesting or unique item on your desk right now?

At this moment, the most interesting and unique item on my desk isn't a physical object at all—it's the absence of clutter! The fact that it is clear save for the essential computer equipment and tools of the trade works for me! I firmly believe in the adage "tidy desk, tidy mind," and it relay helps in my workspace. It helps me have a clarity of thought that allows me to focus and perform at my best. I wish I was able to be as minimalist in my home space!

6. What initially drew you to a career in law?

I’d reached a point in my classical music studies where I wanted a change, and having a good academic record, converting to law training was a good fit. I was deeply intrigued by the legal system's ability to uphold rights, resolve conflicts. I was inspired by the idea of using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in people's lives. I was fascinated by the intellectual challenges and diverse opportunities that the legal profession offers, from analyzing complex legal issues to crafting persuasive arguments, to serving as a voice for and empowering clients.

My journey to a career in law began with a pivotal moment in my classical music studies. As I reached a point of reflection, I realized that I wanted another challenge and a fresh direction in my academic and professional pursuits. With a solid academic record behind me, transitioning to law training seemed like a natural fit—a path that would allow me to use my existing skills while embarking on a new intellectual adventure. I was intrigued by the legal system's ability to uphold rights, resolve conflicts. I was inspired by the idea of using my skills to make a positive and tangible difference in people's lives., which resonated deeply with me. My decision to pursue a career in law was driven by a convergence of interests, values, and aspirations, which continues to inspire me today as I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of others through my professional practice.

7. How do you stay updated with changes in laws and regulations relevant to your practice area?

Luckily, we have so many great ways to do this, from participating inhouse in training and research for cases, to external training events, and our case bring us into contact with other solicitors, barristers, arbitrators, mediators, and judges from whose great legal minds we can develop and learn.

Staying abreast of changes in laws and regulations relevant to our practice area is paramount to providing effective advice to our clients. Fortunately, we have access to a multitude of resources and opportunities that facilitate ongoing learning and professional development. Within our firm, we prioritize continuous training and research. Whether it's through in-house workshops, seminars, or case-specific investigations, we're committed to staying ahead of the curve. These internal initiatives not only keep us informed about the latest legal developments but also provide a platform for exchanging insights and best practices among colleagues.

Additionally, we actively engage with external training events and seminars hosted experts in the field. These events offer valuable opportunities to delve into specific topics, gain insights from industry experts, and network with peers who share similar interests and challenges.

Through these interactions, we can tap into a wealth of collective knowledge and experience. Engaging in dialogue, exchanging ideas, and learning from the perspectives of others which enriches our understanding of complex legal issues and informs our approach to problem-solving.

8.Can you share a memorable courtroom experience or trial victory that stands out in your career?

There have been many! Reflecting on my career, one case that vividly stands out in my memory which I might mention was a case, some years ago now, in which I acted for one party of a divorcing couple, which involved urgently seeking and obtaining mirror international Mareva injunction Orders both in High Court and the Royal Court of Jersey in matrimonial financial proceedings, in relation to funds held in an offshore trust - the case was very fast paced and at that time, new territory for me!

At an early point of my career, that case gave me, a fantastic sense of achievement and taught me how to strategize and move forward urgently under pressure, and demonstrated to me, following to the series of successful orders made against the other party, the tangible practical impact of legal remedies in action! Since then, and working with KJ Smith, I have been privileged to act in many intense and complex cases, where conflict and stakes have been high, each case presenting its own unique challenges and opportunities for resolution.

9. What are some common misconceptions about the legal profession that you'd like to dispel?

I think there is some misconception that all lawyers are cut from the same cloth. In reality, the legal profession is incredibly diverse, with practitioners bringing a wide array of backgrounds, skills, and perspectives to the table. At KJ Smith, we embrace this diversity wholeheartedly. We recognize that our strength lies in the unique talents each team member contributes. Whether it's through fostering a culture of collaboration or encouraging creative problem-solving, we understand the value of harnessing diverse perspectives to achieve optimal outcomes for our clients. There really is a no one-size-fits-all path to success in the legal world. I didn't embark on my journey with a law degree in hand. Instead, I came from a background in classical music, pursuing both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in the field. I believe that this path gave me the distinct set of skills and insights that I bring to my legal practice every day.

10. Outside of work, what are your hobbies or interests that you're passionate about?

Outside of work, one of my greatest passions lies in the world of classical music. For many years, I've been deeply involved in managing a high-profile contemporary classical music composer, a role that has enriched my life in countless ways. Working closely with this composer has been a labour of love, allowing me to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of classical music at a top international level and contribute to the creation of some extraordinary musical works. It's a privilege to witness the creative process firsthand and play a part in bringing the composer's vision to life and the stage.

Beyond this role, classical music remains a source of immense joy and inspiration in my personal life. Whether attending concerts, exploring new compositions, or simply indulging in the timeless melodies of beloved classics, music has always held an essential and special place in my heart.

11. Who’s the most famous person you’ve met?

Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of crossing paths with some of the most illustrious figures in the world of classical music. From top-tier players to esteemed conductors and captivating performers, each encounter has been a testament to the unparalleled talent and dedication that graces the elite classical music stage. While it's difficult to pinpoint a single "most famous" person among these luminaries, each interaction has left an indelible mark on my journey. Whether collaborating on projects, attending performances, or engaging in meaningful conversations about the art form we hold dear, these encounters have been nothing short of extraordinary.

From virtuosic instrumentalists to visionary maestros, the individuals I've had the honour of meeting have not only shaped the landscape of classical music but have also inspired me to strive for excellence in my own endeavours. I feel very lucky by this!

12. Coffee - black or white?

I generally start my day with a black decaf Nespresso to kickstart my morning, enjoying its bold flavour but keeping the caffeine level gentle. As the day progresses, I transition to a creamy decaf Nespresso with oat milk, indulging in its smooth texture and comforting flavour during the later morning hours.

13. What TV Show are you currently enjoying?

Recently, I had the pleasure of binge-watching and utterly enjoying the Netflix series, “Dead to me” starring Christina Applegate. It's a rollercoaster of emotions with twists and turns that leave you eagerly anticipating the next episode – I was hooked from start to finish!

If you are looking for expert family law solicitors in Beaconsfield, feel free to get in touch for a free 45-minute consultation.