The new president of Tomorrow's FOIL wishes to encourage the apprenticeship route within the profession
Browne Jacobson insurance law specialist, Mukesh Kainth, has been elected President of Tomorrow’s Forum of Insurance Lawyers (TFOIL). TFOIL is the junior division of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers catering for defendant insurance lawyers with five years’ post-qualification experience or less.
What was your route into the profession?
I undertook a traditional route of a law degree followed by the LPC. Following a 250-mile relocation to the Plymouth coast I was able to secure a training contract with Lyons Davidson. I undertook the contract in the Solihull offices completing seats in defendant insurance, claimant, advocacy and employment. I then moved on to my current role with Browne Jacobson where I have been for five years.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Completing the training contract was quite onerous as it coincided with getting married, moving house and starting a family. Needless to say I managed to come out of the other side! I suspect my next challenge will be establishing myself as a catastrophic defendant injury lawyer.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
I have always admired civil right lawyers such as Shami Chakrabarti and Clive Stafford Smith who have promoted the rights of the common person.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
As strange as it sounds I have always had aspirations of owning a fish and chip shop. Perhaps in the not-too-distant future I may realise this or perhaps have a weekend side-line…although I am not sure it would do much for my waistline!
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
I have always enjoyed watching Judge John Deed and his one man crusade to put people to rights. I also enjoy the US production Suits even though no-one seems to do any work being more pre-occupied with looking good and taking over the world.
What change would you make to the profession?
A lot of change has occurred recently. Importantly, barriers are breaking down allowing differing paths in to the profession rather than the traditional route. I consider we need to encourage the apprenticeship route rather than an expensive course-driven route where a job may not be available at the end.
How do you relax?
I enjoy Motown music and a tipple or two.
