"I want to be the best I can be" - meet SHB's fledgling solicitor

An aspiring legal eagle with a passion for bird-watching hopes his career as a solicitor will take flight at a Dales firm. 

Tobias Hinde has begun his training contract at Scotts Hall & Birtles (SHB) after impressing in part-time roles during breaks from his studies. The 25-year-old former Ripon Grammar School pupil already has a degree from Oxford Brooks University and a Masters of Law from the University of Law. He was in the top quintile in his class for his first set of professional exams.Now, he has started a two year traineeship which will give him the chance to qualify as a solicitor at the end. 

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my journey here so far. I’ve been exposed to lots of interesting and challenging work already, getting hands-on in a way that people in my position at other firms often don’t. 

“I’m good with detail. It’s not for everyone, but I like drafting leases, partnership agreements, and shared purchase agreements. It’s about identifying what’s in our clients’ best interests and delivering for them.

“I’m just really focussed on qualifying. I want to be the best I can be at what I’m doing, and we’ll see where that takes me.”

When not in the office, Tobias, who lives just outside Masham, is a big fan of rugby, enjoys time in the gym and, more recently, has developed an interest in bird-watching. 

“I find it really relaxing and quite addictive,” he said. 

“The kingfishers at Marfield Wetlands were a recent highlight. I just like being outdoors.”

Steve Scott, managing director at SHB, which has offices in Leyburn, Hawes and Richmond, said: “We’re always looking for exceptional local talent, and Tobias certainly falls into that category. 

“We can’t wait to see him flourish at Scotts Hall & Birtles.”