Pictured: Ligia Bob, Solicitor, Dispute Resolution, Sydney Mitchell LLP

Midlands based Dispute Resolution Solicitor, Ligia Bob, at law firm Sydney Mitchell LLP is a finalist in the category of Assistant Solicitor/Associate of the Year in the British Legal Awards 2011.

Ligia Bob moved to the UK from Romania only four years ago and could not speak a word of English.  In a very short time, with the support of Sydney Mitchell and  language lessons, Ligia has mastered the English language, showing true grit, determination and commitment.  She has converted her Romanian Legal qualification through the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test (QLTT) within three years and is now a UK Qualified practicing Solicitor. Ligia is one of six finalists for this prestigious award.

Ligia commented: "I am delighted to have been short-listed for this award. Language need not be a barrier; it was hard work but worth every verb and noun learnt. The encouragement I have received from colleagues and the wide variety of clients has enabled me to use my natural language ability and broaden my work on multi million pound disputes with Sydney Mitchell."

Ligia advising on all aspects of commercial litigation, employment law and has worked on a large number of complex cases including a variety of injunctive relief, shareholder disputes as well as a number of very complex disputes.

Div Singh, Senior Partner, added: "Ligia has really flourished with the firm; it is fantastic to see determination and focus recognised.  We have some great talent in our legal teams, our continued development shining through with the firm winning the Law Firm of the Year 2011 (5-15 partners) in the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards."

The British Legal Awards take place in London in on 1 December 2011 at the Old Billingsgate Market.