Do you know what a lawyer does? For Kevin Rodgers, understanding the profession deeply is the first step toward deciding whether a legal career is right for you, and his story offers just the insight students need.

As part of The Changing Education Group’s Inspire Future Leaders series, Kevin shares his journey through commercial law, business leadership, and public service. With a calm, clear message for young people: “You don’t need to decide your life right now, you have time.”

Who is Kevin Rodgers, and what does he do?

Kevin Rodgers is a Partner at Wilson Browne Solicitors, where he leads the Commercial Litigation Team. He’s also Chairman of the firm’s board of management and oversees the entire commercial business unit, advising companies across industries on how to resolve disputes and protect their interests.

He’s more than a legal expert:

• 2016 NLS Solicitor of the Year
• Current President of Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce
• Represents and supports 1,000+ local businesses through his Chamber work
• Strong advocate for local economies and legal education

Kevin is known not just for his sharp negotiation skills but also for his approachable leadership and mentoring style, something students can connect with.

What is Kevin’s advice for students considering a career in law?

Kevin’s message is refreshingly honest: don’t feel pressured to have it all figured out.

“You don’t need to decide your life right now, you have time.”

“Do you really know what a lawyer does? Explore it.”
“Don’t worry about what kind of lawyer you want to be, just get a feel for the different types.”
– Kevin Rodgers

His top guidance for aspiring lawyers:

• Explore the full profession: There’s more to law than courtroom drama, think contracts, mediation, commercial deals, and client strategy.
• Try different areas: From criminal to commercial, family to property, get a taste before choosing your path.
• Take your time: Law is a long game. The more you explore, the better your eventual decision.
• Talk to real lawyers: First-hand insights make the biggest difference.

Kevin’s perspective helps take the pressure off students while still encouraging them to be proactive in their learning.

What does a solicitor in commercial law do?

Kevin specialises in commercial litigation, helping businesses resolve legal issues efficiently and strategically. That might involve:

• Negotiating contracts or settlements
• Representing clients in disputes, arbitrations, or court cases
• Advising on legal risk and commercial planning
• Supporting sectors like logistics, construction, and manufacturing

Students considering law often think of courtroom drama, but commercial law is about problem-solving, negotiation, and protecting businesses.

How does this support careers education in UK schools?

Kevin’s journey aligns perfectly with Gatsby Benchmarks 4 and 5, helping students:

• Understand the breadth of legal careers
• Link subjects like English, Business, and Citizenship to real roles
• Gain insights from an industry professional at the top of his field
• Reflect on career decision-making and self-discovery

Through The Changing Education Group’s Inspire Future Leaders series, students get access to real, relatable voices from real careers, helping them navigate with confidence.

A Career in Law Isn’t a Race, It’s a Journey of Exploration

Kevin Rodgers’ career shows that success in law doesn’t come from having all the answers at 16, it comes from exploration, patience, and staying curious. For students, that’s a powerful reminder: you have time to figure it out, just start by asking the right questions.

Want to bring more real-world legal insights into your classroom?
Book a demo and see how our Work Experience Suite brings legal professionals like Kevin directly to students, helping them explore careers with purpose and clarity.

FAQs

What does a commercial solicitor do?
A commercial solicitor advises businesses on legal matters, from contracts and disputes to strategic decisions and risk management.

Who is Kevin Rodgers?
Kevin is a Partner at Wilson Browne Solicitors and President of the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, with decades of legal experience and a passion for supporting students and businesses alike.

Is law a good career for students?
Law is broad, varied, and rewarding, but it’s important to explore different areas first to see where your strengths and interests align.

Do I need to specialise early in law?
No, most legal careers involve general study and training before specialisation. Kevin recommends exploring different legal areas before making a decision.

How can students gain experience in law?
Start by researching roles, talking to professionals, shadowing where possible, and building transferable skills like communication and critical thinking.