Daniel Read is a senior associate in Ogier's Jersey dispute resolution team, focusing on commercial disputes and employment law, and assisting the corporate and banking teams with the employment aspects of commercial transactions.
Laura Shirreffs is an associate working across Ogier's local practice areas, focusing on commercial property, employment, planning and local corporate matters.
Daniel Read
Three words to describe you
Honest, determined, loyal.
Your best skill
I've always been a confident public speaker and this really helps with advocacy. You need to be able to present your client's case clearly, confidently and concisely.
Most exciting part of your job
I enjoy the art and adrenaline of advocacy. For me there is nothing like the thrill of being in court, whether it is presenting a case, cross-examining a witness or making closing submissions. This is definitely the best part of the job.
Most important characteristic for your role
Getting to the point.
Greatest achievement
In the last year we've bought a house and a gorgeous black Labrador, I've qualified as a Jersey Advocate, and we have had our first baby.
An inspirational colleague
Michael Little, Head of Employment Law at Ogier. I've learnt so much from Mike about being a lawyer. He has great life experience, including time in the Police force and working in Human Resources, and his approach to legal advice is very practical and client focused.
Best feedback you've ever had
"If I wanted someone to back me in a tribunal, I'd pick Dan. He can spot points that others might not."
Secret area of expertise
Survival skills – my wife and I used to teach a programme at a summer camp in America and we would both back ourselves in a survival situation. I'd happily catch and gut a fish, skin a rabbit and build a shelter out of brush.
Something no-one at work knows about you (yet)
I can trace my ancestry back to Lady Godiva – unlike her I am not a big fan of exhibitionism.
Laura Shirreffs
Three words to describe you
Ambitious, hard-working and outgoing.
Your best skill
I'm very self-motivated. I self-taught my Masters in International Legal Practice whilst working full-time and managed to obtain a distinction.
Most exciting part of your job
Working across the different teams within Ogier is a great opportunity whereby I can continue to learn from a range of experienced lawyers and meet and work with local clients.
Most important characteristic for your role
Organisation is key, especially as we deal with so many different matters on a day to day basis.
Greatest achievement
Qualifying as an English Solicitor after going through Ogier's training contract scheme.
An inspirational colleague
Richard Daggett. He has come through Ogier's bursary and trainee solicitor schemes all the way to partnership which not only makes for a great role model but is also testament to the emphasis Ogier place on career development.
Best feedback you've ever had
Being offered a job by Ogier on qualification, as it was based on the work I'd done throughout my entire training contract.
Secret area of expertise
As part of Ogier's Data Team I dedicate a lot of time to researching the significant developments to Data Protection Laws across the Channel Islands.
Something no-one at work knows about you (yet)
I competed in the Dance World Cup and won gold.
This feature first appeared in Gallery magazine.
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