From working on the QE2 to Conveyancing Freedom w/Jackie Kitching

What happens when a career in hospitality at sea turns into a 20-year legal career, and then into self-employment by design?In this episode of The SELL Life for Lawyers Podcast, Lofty sits down with Jackie Kitching, a self-employed residential conveyancer working with Taylor Rose inside their innovative Consultant Solicitor Program.Jackie didn’t follow the traditional law school path. Instead, she worked six years aboard the QE2, built deep client-service instincts, trained while working full-time, and spent two decades honing her craft before stepping into consultancy.We unpack:Why flexibility, not money, was the real driverHow confidence grows when clients validate your workWhy fewer, higher-quality matters can beat high-volume stressWhat surprised her most about business development and the LeagueClient service skills compound over timeFinancial awareness is essential before going soloBusiness development doesn’t have to feel “salesy”Confidence follows evidence, especially client feedbackLifestyle design beats default career progressionThe hidden financial realities of conveyancing cashflowThis is an honest, grounded conversation for experienced lawyers or conveyancers who feel the pull toward autonomy but want clarity before making the leap.If you’re considering self-employment, consultant life, or simply a calmer way to practice law, this one’s for you.Episode Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Intro & across-the-pond hello01:20 – From the QE2 to law: Jackie’s unconventional start03:40 – Why hospitality prepared her for conveyancing05:10 – Career training while working full-time07:30 – Long firm stints vs flexibility09:45 – Deciding to go self-employed11:30 – The financial realities of conveyancing13:10 – Confidence, reviews & word of mouth15:20 – Any regrets leaving employment?17:00 – Niche focus: fewer matters, higher quality19:10 – What surprised her about the League21:00 – Advice for lawyers considering self-employmentResources & LinksThe Self-Employed Lawyers League: https://thesell.life/start-hereConnect with Jackie on LinkedIn:  Jackie KitchingConnect with Lofty on LinkedIn: Lofty