The president of the London Solicitors Litigation Association talks to NLJ about her route into law, starting from scratch and her thoughts on the profession’s ‘always on’ culture
What was your route into the profession?
At the age of about 10, I decided that what I really wanted was to be ‘rich’ so that I could own a house and a car and go on nice holidays abroad. To fund this heady lifestyle, my understanding, coming from a working-class background, was that I had three options: an accountant, a doctor or a lawyer.
I wasn’t overly keen on blood or numbers, but I did like using words to get what I wanted, and I had a strong sense of equality and fairness, so a lawyer seemed just the ticket. I did my first work experience at a high-street law firm aged 14 and didn’t look back.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
After having my first child, I left a top US law firm to build my own practice at a chambers-style firm. I was ready to step up, and the autonomy and flexibility really appealed. It was unconventional and a big risk as I didn’t have an existing client base, family connections or a private school network.
I was starting from scratch, at an unknown firm, with no marketing budget or support. What I did have was excellent legal training, a strong work ethic and real skin in the game. If I didn’t get work, I didn’t get paid. It was a challenge but extremely rewarding.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
Baroness Hale of Richmond. I am hoping to persuade her to speak at the LSLA annual dinner next year! What she has achieved in her career is beyond impressive, but at the same time, she has always spoken up for what she believes in and continues to do so now, championing all types of diversity within the legal profession.
There is a brilliant children's book about her work called Equal to Everything: Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court, which I would recommend for any aspiring young lawyers.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
A travel writer. What could be better than travelling the world and writing about it, so that others can benefit from your experience?
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
I couldn’t choose a favourite character, but I own every single episode of Ally McBeal on DVD. It was a big hit when I was doing my A-levels and degree. During my training contract, I lived with a fellow trainee who was also my best friend, and we were both sorely disappointed that all law firms didn’t have a bar underneath for karaoke and dancing after a hard day’s work!
What change would you make to the profession?
There are a few, but I would start with an end to the always on, competitive culture. I don't believe it benefits our clients or our people. We have a mental health and wellbeing crisis within the profession, which cannot be ignored, and this culture is also a barrier to much-needed diversity.
How do you relax?
Relaxing is my favourite! There are too many ways to list, but a long bath, some trash TV or a good book are always great options.
Nikki Edwards is president of the London Solicitors Litigation Association and a partner in the commercial dispute resolution team at Howard Kennedy.
