What was your route into the profession?
My journey into the profession was far from seamless.
Disaster however—almost—struck: I was unable to secure a training contract. However, thanks to the steadfast encouragement of my father, Melvin, I secured a placement with local Aylesbury firm, Horwood & James. I qualified in 2002 and joined my first in-house team a year later. In 2010 I completed a master’s degree in public law and global governance at King’s College, University of London.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
It has probably been to establish myself in the legal profession as a credible candidate to be an elected office holder of the Law Society of England & Wales.
In doing so, I represent a couple of firsts. I will be the first black woman to hold the position of president, and the first in-house solicitor to be an elected office holder.
I hope to bring a fresh perspective—an understanding of the experiences of these under-represented groups, and what we must to do to support them.
In doing so, I am proof that no matter what the challenge, or how insurmountable the odds appear to be, it is possible to succeed if you are determined and passionate.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
Through my voluntary work, I have been lucky enough to work with some of the best legal minds the country has to offer. This has enabled me to learn and develop in ways I couldn’t have possibly imagined.
The amount of time we dedicate to the public, whether it’s through pro bono work or other voluntary activity, is truly a testament to the dedication of so many within our profession.
Each person who I’ve had the privilege to work with, or whose work I’ve encountered, has inspired me in one way or another. The truth is all my colleagues, past and present, continue to inspire me each and every day.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
Athletics. At middle school I was the district champion in 800 metres and ran the third leg in the relay team. Our then coach/teacher, Mr Vyner, always spoke of his hope that one of us would represent England one day. I’m not sure any of us did—at least, not in athletics!
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
What change would you make to the legal services industry?
I would reverse the destructive legal aid cuts that have caused such enormous harm to our justice system—preventing many of the most vulnerable individuals from having access to justice.
The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 has been devastating. We must have a safety net for those who cannot afford legal representation, so that everyone has access to justice. We must continue to press government to release the funds so desperately needed, continually raising awareness of the crisis within our system.
How do you relax?
I practice mindfulness to relax both body and mind. I also love to listen to classical music, to cycle, and even indulge in a bit of intrigue with Agatha Christie!
