Sophie Mcdonnell

Human rights and environment-focused law graduate with substantial clinical and research experience supporting human rights cases. Experienced in legal research, case preparation, drafting, client interviewing, and advocacy-oriented work involving vulnerable individuals under solicitor supervision within Essex Law Clinic. Completed a funded refugee and asylum rights research project examining UK and international protection frameworks.

Demonstrates strong analytical judgement, professionalism, emotional resilience, and commitment to human rights, social justice, and access to justice work.

Assistant Project Manager – Immigration Unit - Essex Law Clinic

(2021-10 - 2023-02)

Worked under the supervision of Dr Olayinka Lewis, Immigration Solicitor, supporting immigration, asylum, refugee, and broader public-interest and human-rights-related matters.

• Managed client intake communications, conducted interviews, and coordinated case progression involving vulnerable individuals.
• Drafted legal advice letters, supporting statements, case summaries, and related legal documentation for solicitor review.
• Conducted legal research on immigration, asylum, refugee, and human rights issues across UK and international legal frameworks.
• Maintained confidential electronic case files and ensured accurate documentation management in line with professional standards.
• Collaborated with external organisations, including Refugee Action, in relation to asylum and refugee support matters.
• Balanced multiple active matters simultaneously while meeting internal deadlines and professional expectations.

Research Project Worker – Refugee & Asylum Seeker Rights (YUFE Funded Research Project)

• Conducted structured research into UK and international refugee protection and asylum law frameworks.
• Produced analytical research materials and reports relating to refugee protection and asylum seeker rights.
• Supported legal awareness and educational initiatives focused on refugee and asylum-related issues.
• Developed strong policy research, analytical, and human-rights-focused research skills.

Band 4 Immuniser - NHS

(2021 - 2022)

• Worked within regulated clinical environments requiring professionalism, confidentiality, safeguarding awareness, and accurate record keeping.
• Developed calm decision-making, communication, and resilience skills in fast-paced public-facing settings.

Swimming Teacher & Lifeguard

(2017 - 2026)

• Maintained public safety and emergency response standards within high-responsibility environments.
• Demonstrated leadership, adaptability, situational awareness, and effective communication with diverse groups in community settings.

LLB (Hons) - Law - University of Essex (2020 - 2024)