Our inspiring Founding Partner’s journey into the law

Our Founding Partner Sashi Pararajasingam recently shared the following.

“My journey to becoming a solicitor has been far from easy. It is not the typical story. If it inspires even one person then sharing it would have been worth it.

I was inspired to get into the law by the Louise Woodward trial which featured on TV in 1997. For those too young to remember (or perhaps not even born!) the case involved an American prosecution of a 19-year-old British nanny accused of killing a baby she cared for. To realise my dream I started by completing my conversion exams, which I studied for on a part time basis whilst pregnant with my younger two children. Then, my dreams were put on hold as I was treated for breast cancer.

By 2003 I was a single mother to four young girls, and I was finding achieving my goal of becoming a solicitor incredibly difficult. I worked for years as an outdoor clerk, and then a paralegal. I was spat at in the street and called a racist slur, and I was regularly mis-identified as the interpreter at County Courts. For years I tried to get a training contract which never materialised. With four young mouths to feed I didn’t have the luxury of taking unpaid experiences. I needed to progress quickly.

I wanted to show my four girls that anything was possible with hard work and determination.

In 2012, I was finally admitted to the roll by the Solicitors Regulation Authority , becoming a member of The Law Society. From the date of admission I worked as a Consultant Solicitor on a percentage split. I did this to achieve a sense of freedom, as it allowed me to generate as much revenue as I wanted to. Over the next twelve years I focused on building my knowledge base and my own departments within firms. I also built a strong client base over the years who have been incredible. Eventually, I was able to employ some wonderful employees to whom I am so grateful.

In 2024, after years of being attached to other firms I decided I wanted something for myself. Things in life can feel cyclical. My four girls – who were my inspiration from the start - gave me the push and confidence to start my own venture. My eldest daughter Anjali (who is now pursuing a career at the Bar) committed her time to working with me to make my dream a reality.

So now, I have Leka Solicitors - my new law firm. We specialise in Business Immigration, Personal Immigration and Repossession. The 1997 version of me would never have believed it. All of my experience has informed my decision to ensure Leka Solicitors is a diverse and inclusive environment that provides excellent client care”.