Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Painting and Photography
Timeline
Generic

DEBORAH EGWUAGU-CHIJIOKE

Summary

A dedicated and results-driven professional with a proven track record of providing exceptional legal counsel. Possesses strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with effective communication and negotiation abilities. Demonstrated expertise in [corporate, property, civil as well as family law], delivering favorable outcomes for clients. Committed to upholding the highest ethical standards while navigating complex legal landscapes. Adept at fostering client relationships and collaborating with legal teams to achieve optimal results. Eager to contribute extensive legal acumen to a dynamic and challenging legal environment.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Company Lawyer (In-house)

Wellfield Properties Limited
Lagos, Nigeria
01.2019 - 10.2023
  • Explained available courses of action and possible repercussions of cases to clients.
  • Minimized risk exposure through careful advice on business operations and strategic plans.
  • Advised clients on variety of legal matters pertaining to the real estate industry.
  • Prepared and reviewed contracts and other legal documents following applicable regulations.
  • Used knowledge of legal precedents to analyze probable outcome of cases.
  • Negotiated settlements and mediated disputes between parties finding mutually beneficial solutions.
  • Enhanced firm reputation through active participation in industry events, thought leadership activities, and community outreach programs.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Collaborated with human resources and outside counsel to protect company from legal claims.
  • Achieved favorable case outcomes by meticulously researching legal precedents and preparing persuasive arguments.
  • Collaborated effectively with opposing counsel to expedite resolution of disputes, demonstrating professionalism and diplomatic tact.
  • Delivered exceptional client service through attentive listening, empathetic understanding, and creative problem-solving to address individual needs.
  • Championed a positive work environment within the company, fostering collaboration among colleagues and promoting a strong culture of teamwork and mutual support.
  • Built lasting relationships with clients by demonstrating integrity, dedication, and a genuine commitment to their success.
  • Undertook the additional role of also branding and marketing for the company by creating promotional flyers and social media infographics.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills in managing projects from concept to completion.
  • Demonstrated a high level of initiative and creativity while tackling difficult tasks.
  • Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.

Legal Associate

Country Hill Attorneys & Solicitors
02.2017 - 08.2018
  • Counseled clients on potential outcomes of legal matters.
  • Conducted comprehensive due diligence investigations for corporate transactions, mitigating risks for clients.
  • Was appointed Head of the property department of the firm and spearheaded the closing of several property deals yielding profits for the firm.
  • Reviewed contracts thoroughly to identify potential areas of risk or non-compliance before execution by clients.
  • Represented clients in court hearings and in negotiations with other parties.
  • Managed complex litigation matters, coordinating with multiple parties to achieve favorable results.
  • Prepared and filed pleadings, motions and other legal documents in court proceedings.
  • Researched and wrote contracts, agreements and proposals.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Interviewed witnesses and gathered public record research relevant to each case.
  • Developed strong working relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Maintained updated knowledge of relevant legislation changes affecting client industries through continuous learning and attending professional seminars.
  • Increased client satisfaction by providing timely and accurate legal research on various topics.
  • Analyzed complex legal issues using critical thinking skills, leading to innovative solutions for client challenges.
  • Drafted motions, petitions and waivers.
  • Directed and supported clients with business registrations and other legal requirements.
  • Negotiated favorable settlements in various disputes, saving clients from costly litigation expenses.
  • Participated actively in pro bono activities, providing valuable legal assistance to underserved communities.
  • Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
  • Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others.
  • Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Gained strong leadership skills by managing projects from start to finish.

Legal Associate

PUNUKA Attorneys & Solicitors
01.2015 - 12.2015
  • Analyzed complex legal issues using critical thinking skills, leading to innovative solutions for client challenges.
  • Drafted motions, petitions and waivers.
  • Assisted senior attorneys in preparing for trial, contributing to successful outcomes in numerous cases.
  • Participated actively in pro bono activities, providing valuable legal assistance to underserved communities.
  • Analyzed legal documents and identified pertinent issues for clients.
  • Communicated with clients and collected information to research cases and prepare settlement offers.
  • Improved client communication by developing clear and concise status reports on ongoing legal matters.
  • Created and finalized contracts and other legal documents for clients.
  • Researched and wrote contracts, agreements and proposals.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
  • Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
  • Demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness through the development of innovative solutions.
  • Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.

Legal Intern

Anu Eso & Co Legal Practitioners
08.2014 - 10.2014
  • Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality with sensitive information related to client matters; preserving trust between the firm and its clients.
  • Researched and analyzed legal issues and cases to provide accurate advice to clients.
  • Enhanced team collaboration with regular communication and coordination among interns, paralegals, and attorneys.
  • Visited the land registry severally to conduct land search for clients/prospective property owners
  • Assisted attorneys in streamlining case management through efficient document organization and filing systems.
  • Supported attorney-client relationships with professional demeanor during client meetings and phone calls.
  • Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes.
  • Promoted positive working environment within the firm through active participation in team-building events or activities organized for interns during the summer program period.
  • Optimized time management for supervising attorneys by scheduling appointments, managing calendars, and coordinating meetings as needed.
  • Applied solid understanding of ethical standards when handling sensitive or confidential information related to clients'' cases while maintaining professionalism at all times.

Planning Committee (Assistant)

Nigerian Maritime Expo (NIMAREX) 2014
09.2013 - 03.2014
  • Strengthened client relationships through consistent follow-up communication and efficient problem resolution.
  • Worked closely with management to provide effective assistance for specific aspects of business operations.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment with strong interpersonal skills and proactive teamwork attitude.
  • Maximized staff performance by assisting with training, onboarding, and performance evaluations.
  • Greeted guests in with friendliness and professionalism.
  • Facilitated smooth project execution by managing deadlines, resources allocation, and progress updates.
  • Answered incoming phone calls to process requests, transfer calls, or relay messages to appropriate personnel.
  • Opened and properly distributed incoming mail to promote quicker response to client inquiries.
  • Reviewed and edited documents for accuracy, grammar and clarity.
  • Managed calendars and coordinated travel arrangements and accommodation for senior-level staff to optimize schedules.
  • Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals in a timely manner.

Legal Intern

Anu Eso & Co Legal Practitioners
06.2013 - 09.2013
  • Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
  • Researched and analyzed legal issues and cases to provide accurate advice to clients.
  • Enhanced team collaboration with regular communication and coordination among interns, paralegals, and attorneys.
  • Visited the land registry severally to conduct land search for clients/prospective property owners
  • Assisted attorneys in streamlining case management through efficient document organization and filing systems.
  • Supported attorney-client relationships with professional demeanor during client meetings and phone calls.
  • Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes.
  • Promoted positive working environment within the firm through active participation in team-building events or activities organized for interns during the summer program period.
  • Optimized time management for supervising attorneys by scheduling appointments, managing calendars, and coordinating meetings as needed.
  • Applied solid understanding of ethical standards when handling sensitive or confidential information related to clients'' cases while maintaining professionalism at all times.

Events Coordinator

African and Caribbean Society (ACS) – University of East Anglia
06.2012 - 06.2013
  • Developed and distributed event surveys to gather feedback and assess event success.
  • Developed post-event reports to determine effectiveness of each event.
  • Employed social media platforms effectively to promote upcoming events, reaching a wider audience base.
  • Handled crisis management situations promptly, minimizing negative impact on event outcomes and student satisfaction.
  • Monitored and controlled event expenditures to meet budgets.
  • Created detailed timelines and budgets for events to meet all deadlines.
  • Oversaw event registration process by collecting and tracking attendee information.
  • Researched and identified new vendors and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing.
  • Inspected event facilities to confirm conformance to students' requirements.
  • Implemented protocols and procedures to effectively manage planning process.
  • Developed creative themes for events and created related activities to engage attendees.
  • Cultivated strong partnerships with local businesses, securing in-kind donations or sponsorships for various occasions.
  • Negotiated contracts with venues, vendors and suppliers to obtain best rates and services.
  • Spearheaded fundraising events that exceeded financial goals through effective donor engagement initiatives.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless event execution and positive outcomes.
  • Graphically designed e-flyers for events held by the society
  • Ensured compliance with university policies and regulations when organizing student-focused events.

Intern

Mattson Creations Photography Studio
07.2012 - 08.2012
  • Improved efficiency by managing digital files, archiving images, and maintaining a well-organized database of completed projects.
  • Optimized productivity by assisting with post-production processes such as editing, retouching, and resizing images.
  • Enhanced photo quality by adjusting lighting and camera settings for optimal results.
  • Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
  • Utilized natural and artificial lighting to capture desired images and maintain quality.
  • Used image processing algorithms to reduce motion blur and enhance color, contrast and light range.
  • Supported photographers in capturing high-quality images through precise positioning of subjects, props, and backgrounds.
  • Selected and set up appropriate props, backdrops, and lighting.
  • Set up lighting, prepared sweeps and organized area for photography sessions.
  • Photographed high-quality images for various print and digital projects.
  • Collaborated with other photographers and videographers to capture special events.
  • Assisted clients with creative ideas for photography needs.

University Representative

Global Voices – University of East Anglia
10.2011 - 05.2012
  • Delivered engaging presentations at various offsite locations (mainly primary schools), educating young children about my home country and way of life back at home to actively impact their global knowledge.
  • Established connections with local businesses and organizations, resulting in mutually beneficial collaborations that supported student growth.
  • Collaborated with faculty members to create customized presentations highlighting the benefits of university programs and services.
  • Demonstrated creativity and resourcefulness through the development of innovative solutions to engage young children.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.

Student Service

Bosworth Independent College
09.2010 - 06.2011
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships with peers.
  • Delivered services to fellow students within specific timeframes.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.

Summer Intern

Edu, Edu & Co Solicitors
06.2010 - 08.2010
  • Gained real-world experience with hands-on involvement in various stages of litigation from initial intake to final resolution.
  • Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
  • Researched and analyzed legal issues and cases to provide accurate advice to clients.
  • Enhanced team collaboration with regular communication and coordination among interns, paralegals, and attorneys.
  • Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes.
  • Promoted positive working environment within the firm through active participation in team-building events or activities organized for interns during the summer program period.

Summer Intern

Multi-Trade Limited
06.2009 - 08.2009
  • Created and maintained detailed administrative processes and procedures to drive efficiency and accuracy.
  • Opened and properly distributed incoming mail to promote quicker response to client inquiries.
  • Played an integral role in project management support by tracking deadlines, updating progress reports regularly.
  • Responded to emails and other correspondence to facilitate communication and enhance business processes.
  • Communicated with customers via phone and email to confirm deliveries and respond to inquiries.
  • Kept reception area clean and neat to give visitors positive first impression.
  • Assisted coworkers and staff members with special tasks on daily basis.
  • Responded to inquiries from callers seeking information.
  • Enhanced office efficiency by organizing and filing documents, managing appointment calendars, and processing incoming correspondence.

Summer Intern

Multi-Trade Limited
07.2008 - 08.2008
  • Created and maintained detailed administrative processes and procedures to drive efficiency and accuracy.
  • Opened and properly distributed incoming mail to promote quicker response to client inquiries.
  • Played an integral role in project management support by tracking deadlines, updating progress reports regularly.
  • Communicated with customers via phone and email to confirm deliveries and respond to inquiries.
  • Kept reception area clean and neat to give visitors positive first impression.
  • Assisted coworkers and staff members with special tasks on daily basis.
  • Responded to inquiries from callers seeking information.

Education

Barrister At Law (B.L.) - Law

Nigerian Law School
Lagos Campus
11.2016

Bachelor of Laws - Law

University of East Anglia
Norwich, UK
07.2014

Skills

  • Case analysis and interpretation
  • Contract Review and Negotiation
  • Legal advisory and counseling
  • Organization and Administration
  • Legal Document Research & Preparation
  • Lexis-Nexis & Westlaw
  • Filling court processes
  • Building Trust and Relationships
  • Cross-cultural communication
  • Real Estate and Corporate Law
  • Family and Juvenile Law
  • Civil & Criminal Law

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Painting and Photography

Painting: I discovered my innate ability to paint during the Covid Pandemic in 2020. This discovery lead to my creation of an extensive body of work which I have kept as a private collection and also gone on to sell to private collectors and galleries in Lagos, Nigeria.

Photography:Whilst in University I discovered and cultivated my passion for photography. Whilst in school I gained recognition as a photographer and covered various events for student on and off campus and also engaged in fashion photography. Photography has remained a passion of mine which I still indulge in till date/

Timeline

Company Lawyer (In-house)

Wellfield Properties Limited
01.2019 - 10.2023

Legal Associate

Country Hill Attorneys & Solicitors
02.2017 - 08.2018

Legal Associate

PUNUKA Attorneys & Solicitors
01.2015 - 12.2015

Legal Intern

Anu Eso & Co Legal Practitioners
08.2014 - 10.2014

Planning Committee (Assistant)

Nigerian Maritime Expo (NIMAREX) 2014
09.2013 - 03.2014

Legal Intern

Anu Eso & Co Legal Practitioners
06.2013 - 09.2013

Intern

Mattson Creations Photography Studio
07.2012 - 08.2012

Events Coordinator

African and Caribbean Society (ACS) – University of East Anglia
06.2012 - 06.2013

University Representative

Global Voices – University of East Anglia
10.2011 - 05.2012

Student Service

Bosworth Independent College
09.2010 - 06.2011

Summer Intern

Edu, Edu & Co Solicitors
06.2010 - 08.2010

Summer Intern

Multi-Trade Limited
06.2009 - 08.2009

Summer Intern

Multi-Trade Limited
07.2008 - 08.2008

Barrister At Law (B.L.) - Law

Nigerian Law School

Bachelor of Laws - Law

University of East Anglia

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DEBORAH EGWUAGU-CHIJIOKE