What was your route into the profession?
I wanted to go into the legal profession, perhaps to become a criminal lawyer, having in part been influenced by my father who was a police officer. I therefore followed the traditional route of an LLM law degree, law school and articles with no break. After the first term of my degree, I realised criminal law was certainly not for me. I began my training at Brachers in Kent and am still here 30 years later. I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to progress my career within one firm—particularly one I feel so passionate about.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
On a personal level, I have two. The first was changing discipline halfway through my career and the second was beginning the role of managing partner while being a sleep-deprived new mum. Both were times when I had to dig deep and try to put my imposter syndrome to one side. I always try to have a positive mindset and see a challenge as an opportunity to bring out the best in you and those around you—as long as you have a plan!
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
I am afraid there is not one person. I am inspired when I look around me and see someone giving their all to fight against inequality or injustice, being passionate about mentoring junior lawyers, coming up with innovative ideas, or going above and beyond for their clients. This is what I value.
If you weren’t in the legal sector, what would you choose as an alternate career?
This is a tricky question but probably a teacher. I love learning and supporting children or adults to thrive. I am lucky to have a couple of governor posts which I find extremely rewarding.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
I grew up with Rumpole, but I do not really relate to him. I love strong women and The Split was fun and recent, so let’s say Hannah Stern.
What change would you make to the profession?
There is always more we can do to improve exclusivity and diversity within the profession, particularly in leadership roles, so that must be given. I also think we need to do more as a profession to support and invest in our junior lawyers by nurturing their resilience, expanding their skill set and preparing them for the new opportunities that will flow from artificial intelligence and other future developments.
How do you relax?
I love being at home with my family or friends, enjoying a home-cooked meal with lots of laughter and chatter. This is followed closely by long walks with our dogs, a basset and a cocker spaniel, through the orchards near our house or exploring the lovely Kent countryside.
Joanna Worby is managing partner at Kent-based law firm Brachers, with offices in Maidstone and Canterbury.
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