We are now a year on from the first lockdown – has this changed the way you work?
"I am very lucky to work for a forward-thinking firm that recognises the need for a greater work/life balance and which had invested in technology to help those who wanted to work from home do so," explained Julie Moktadir, Partner and Head of Immigration at Cambridge law firm Stone King.
"This meant that, when faced with the pandemic and going into lockdown, the whole firm was able to effortlessly switch into remote working and so continue to support our clients.
"Last year Stone King held 132 free webinars, mainly in reaction to changing legislation as a result of Brexit and Covid, and these were attended by over 9,000 people."
"I think it’s important to add that many of our clients appreciate being able to meet with us remotely or face-to-face. Many appreciate not having to travel and so help the environment at the same time.
You mentioned Brexit - what impact has it had on your practice?
"Brexit has raised so many issues in the immigration sector. We have held a number of Immigration Training webinars with organisations taking part ranging from business, education, charities and of course individuals.
"Of key interest are right to work checks, including those for European nationals now that the UK has left the EU, the movement of EU nationals and sponsorship.
"We also offer bespoke audit packages for organisations so please get in touch."
Why did you become a lawyer?
"I lived abroad for many years and, in one of the countries I lived in, I faced adversity in searching for a job and entering the workplace.
"There was so much red tape in place to discourage foreign nationals from living and working there. The injustice of the situation fuelled my desire to enter a career in law, and six months later I began a law conversion course.
"I knew I wanted to practise immigration law having lived abroad for many years, and really understand the impact of global migration in today’s society."
What law would you like to see changed?
I would like to see immigration rules become more accommodating to qualified workers and professionals. The current rules detail the Shortage Occupation List which contains a range of occupations which can be sponsored through an easier route than other roles. I would like to see this list widened.
What is the most rewarding work you do?
"I am fortunate in that so much of my work is exciting and rewarding, I love my area of law, as immigration involves people, organisations and their respective stories.
"I worked for many years with individuals who had been trafficked. This was a very difficult area to work in but equally very rewarding and had great impact on the individual’s lives."
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the profession?
"Ambition, commitment and networking are essential.
"If you are focused on your goal you will succeed! Spend time researching your area of law, get as much work experience as you can, work hard in everything you do, and if possible find a mentor. Understand your strengths and consider if the area of law you have chosen will keep you engaged and enthused."
What do you like about working in Cambridge?
"I had previously worked in London and Southampton. I moved to Cambridge in 2015. It surprised me when I first moved to this city how everyone knows everyone. I am very fortunate to have made some fantastic connections, and the networking within Cambridge is wonderful. The city is so diverse, multi-national and multi-cultural, it is the ideal place for an immigration lawyer to work."
Details of Stone King's webinars can be seen here.
Julie can be contacted on 01223 612082 or emailed at juliemoktadir@stoneking.co.uk