The RPC partner calls for encouragement for the equivalent means route to qualification
Simon Laird is a partner and head of insurance at RPC specialising in advising on onshore and offshore commercial disputes.
What was your route into the profession?
Straight through university, law school and training contract.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Balancing a demanding career with a young family
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
There is no one person. I have been fortunate enough though that throughout my career I have worked with a number of people at RPC who have taken the time and effort to trust and support me through the journey. Without them, I wouldn't be where I am now and I am incredibly appreciative of that.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
Wine distributor.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Rumpole of the Bailey.
What change would you make to the profession?
I think the equivalent means to qualifying is a good thing, alongside the more traditional training contract route. Equivalent means has been slow to get going but is now gaining some traction. Indeed, we have already had our first equivalent means qualifier at RPC. But there is a way to go before it is more widely accepted by the profession and considered a success. I hope we get there.
How do you relax?
A morning with my family before heading to the Rec to watch Bath rugby with friends
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