What was your route into the profession?
I graduated from the University of Oxford in Philosophy, Politics and Economics and completed my law conversion course the following year. One of my main motivations for pursuing a career at the Bar was the murder of a close family friend when we were teenagers. After university, I remained committed to making a tangible change in society and doing a job where I would often be advocating on behalf of vulnerable people seemed like a good way to achieve this. My pupillage was mostly in criminal and family law, and I now practice all areas of family law.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
My biggest career challenge so far has been making the decision to specialise solely in family law. I really enjoyed practicing criminal law and it’s difficult to let go of work that you like, but over time my interest in family law grew and I knew that I wanted to be able to focus on it. I feel very fortunate to be at 4PB pursuing a family practice, it feels like a wonderful fit.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
I have so many role models within the profession, it makes it difficult to choose. Barbara Mills QC, in my chambers, is a huge inspiration to me. She’s led the way for so many Black women at the Bar and is undoubtedly one of the best family silks in the country. What’s even more important to me is that she is always keen to bring others up with her and is very supportive of junior members of the Bar.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I think I’d be a TV presenter, perhaps I’d even have my own chat show. I really enjoy talking to different people from all walks of life. I like to think that the door isn’t completely closed! Who knows what the future holds?
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
My favourite fictional lawyer is Annalise Keating from How to Get Away with Murder. I’m not sure about her ethical standards, but I think she’s a brilliant advocate.
What change would you make to the profession?
If I could click my fingers and make our profession more diverse overnight, I would. There is still a long way to go, particularly at the senior end of the profession and within the judiciary. Role models are so important, and I’ve been guided by some brilliant Black men and women in the profession, and hope that I can use my experience to encourage and support others wanting to join this profession.
How do you relax?
I need to get better at relaxing! I really like to travel and have managed to squeeze a few trips in over the last few years, but hope to travel some more. I currently am learning Spanish and it’s a fun hobby to do after a long day in court. I also try to make sure that I take some time every day away from my computer screen, usually walking my dog—I find our walks very relaxing.
Alexandra Wilson is a family law barrister at 4PB. Outside of her practice, Alexandra is the author of In Black and White, which details her experiences as a young mixed-raced woman in the legal profession, as well as the co-founder of One Case at a Time, a non-profit organisation facilitating legal funding and representation in cases of injustice for black people in the UK.
