Elica Spaseski, Legal Assistant, Corporate & Commercial

I started here as a young and inexperienced word processor operator in 1989, believing I would stay long enough to gain some experience and knowledge and then move on, but here I am.

I have worked in all of Cornwall Stodart's practice groups at some point, but at the moment I am in the Corporate & Commercial team. It's wonderful to work at a firm where I know everyone by name and position, and they know me. No one is 'just a number' - it's like an extended family.

We have many social events throughout the year such as balls, Christmas parties, carnivals, dinners and sporting events (and lots more!). These things help to build a fun and personal atmosphere in the office, although we all work hard - and enjoy the work. We have a fantastic social club that organises these events and encourages everyone to be involved (loved ones often included), which creates a supportive environment that emphasises the importance of professional and personal relationships.

I have been on maternity leave twice not so long ago. Upon my return I felt totally welcome, even though there were so many new faces. This is what makes Cornwall Stodart worth coming back to - 20 years on.