Fiona Kingscott

Principal Associate, Capsticks Solicitors LLP  

Biography

I graduated from Royal Holloway in 1996 with a degree in French. I specialise in commercial law, which broadly means the law relating to contracts for the supply of goods or services.  I also specialise in non-contentious intellectual property law, such as licences of intellectual property.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Royal Holloway? Any favourite memories of campus?

I particularly enjoyed my final year at Royal Holloway, as it was the year in which I really cracked down and learnt a lot about French literature and the French language.  The Founders building was inspirational, and I loved the chapel, where I was a member of the Chapel Choir during my first year.

Where did you start your career?

I started my career at Filtronic plc, as an in-house solicitor and assistant company secretary. 

What attracted you to a careers in law?

I chose law because I love debate and language, and law does challenge me to communicate well.  Also, within law there is a very broad range of law areas which you can go into, and so you can find your own forte.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of a career in law?

If you are keen on working alongside professional people, and strive to reach high standards, then law is a good choice.  If you are not very commercially minded, then perhaps it is not for you, unless you choose criminal law.

Are there any developments in the legal sector that aspiring lawyers should be aware of?

The new exam for would-be solicitors, will ensure they everyone is of a good standard before entering the profession.  This is fine but the costs of training up, prior to taking this exam are probably very high, so there is a financial risk with pursuing law as a career choice.