Karen Surridge
Trainee Solicitor
BEFORE FSI
Karen graduated with a degree in Classics from Clare College, Cambridge in 2006. Following this she completed her GDL and LPC qualifications at BPP Law School in London, taking electives in Advanced Commercial Property, Employment and Intellectual Property.
Karen joined FSI as a trainee in September 2008.
SEATS COMPLETED
Karen's first seat was in the Property department. Whilst in the department, Karen drafted various agreements, leases and licences for a range of commercial clients, including several agreements for the installation of telecoms equipment. She also assisted with the refinancing of a client's property portfolio and carried out post-completion work. Karen also gained experience with the property litigation team, by drafting letters before action and statutory demands in respect of rent arrears.
Karen's second seat was in the corporate/commercial department. In her time there, she assisted with the verification process and drafting of ancillary documents for an AIM float, ran the due diligence and disclosure elements of a share sale transaction and prepared various board minutes and AGM notices. She also assisted with several banking arrangements, including drafting various loan agreements and security documents. On the commercial side, Karen assisted with various matters, including drafting share options, confidentiality agreements and the terms and conditions for a website.
Whilst in her third seat, in the Private Client department, Karen was involved with the administration of several estates, and the preparation of various Wills, Codicils, Lasting Powers of Attorney and other documents. Karen also dealt with an application to the Court of Protection on behalf an attorney under an Enduring Power of Attorney, as well as being involved with setting up several new charities, where she drafted constitutions and assisted with applications to the Charity Commission.
Karen is now in her final seat in Commercial Litigation.
Random Fact
Karen is a qualified international rhythmic gymnastics judge and enjoys judging at national competitions around the country. She also enjoys travelling and has spent time in Italy, Thailand and Australia.