The dream of a sunny climate and fresh career challenges, coupled with a sense of adventure, inspired lawyer Charlotte Donnelly and her husband to think about a move from their London home two years ago.

After scanning the map and carrying out some research, the couple came to a conclusion — Bermuda ticked all the boxes on their wish list.

On Friday, Ms Donnelly achieved a career milestone when she was Called to the Bermuda Bar.

The lawyer, who has worked in the dispute resolution and litigation team of Carey Olsen since her move to the island a year ago, was sponsored by company partner Keith Robinson, who described his protégé as “a very hard worker and an invaluable member of our team”.

“That’s important for our industry and our island to keep the reinsurance industry alive and moving,” Mr Robinson said.

A graduate of Queen’s University in Belfast, Ms Donnelly worked as a litigation associate at the London office of international law firm Gowling WLG, having also completed her training contract at the firm.

Ms Donnelly, whose husband now works for insurance firm Arch Reinsurance, has a Master's degree in International Human Rights Law from the National University of Ireland, Galway.

Addressing Puisne Judge Larry Mussenden, who accepted the application, Ms Donnelly said: “Two years ago, my husband and I were living in London when we were researching a move abroad with the hope of a warmer climate.

“We quickly settled on Bermuda, knowing that I could continue my legal career in a jurisdiction that was renowned and accepted.

“Bermuda punches well above its weight with the body of legal work and litigation that goes through its doors and has a high calibre of barristers and attorneys.

“During my first year in Bermuda as a registered associate, I’ve experienced that first-hand.

“The last 12 months, working in a new jurisdiction, with new clients, new colleagues far away from home, has been a challenge. But my life’s motto, which I try to adopt, is that your life shrinks or expands in proportion to your courage, and my life has certainly expanded since moving to the island.

“I’m surrounded by friendly and welcoming people, along with beautiful scenery and an outdoor lifestyle. I feel rewarded by taking this leap of faith.

“I’m delighted and honoured to be admitted to the Bermuda Bar and look forward to a rewarding career as an advocate representing both the community of Bermuda and those that wish to do business here.”

Ms Donnelly thanked the “support and patience” of work colleagues at Carey Olsen who guided her through her first year of practice on the island.

“I am proud to work for an ambitious and hard-working firm and it is an honour to be a part of their story in Bermuda,” she said.