This week, our member in the spotlight is Phoebe Whitlock, probationary tenant at Lamb Chambers.
Tell us a little about yourself and your practice.
“I have had an unusual path to the Bar! I practised as a Solicitor and a Solicitor Advocate for a number of years in technology companies before making the leap to the Bar. I started out at a major fintech start-up before moving to the data protection team at Google, followed by a cybersecurity company and finally an online gaming company. The breadth of experience you get working in house is excellent, and I recommend it to anyone who isn’t sure what area of law they want to end up in!
My practice at the Bar encapsulates a lot of my practice as a Solicitor. I undertake mostly Intellectual Property, Data Protection and Commercial law. I am a Churchill Fellow and have a MSc in IP from the University of Oxford. My research focuses on ownership of AI and also how AI can better be incorporated into the Justice System to improve accessibility both for the disabled and for Litigants in Person.”
What is your first memory of wanting to be a barrister?
“My Undergraduate degree was in Politics and I took a year out to work for a Government Minister. The job was enjoyable, but I realised I wanted something with more variety. I had always enjoyed debating, so someone suggested I try being a barrister. After a few mini pupillages and starting the GDL, I was hooked and have never looked back!”
Is there a certain case that stands out to you in your career? If yes, why?
“I enjoy IP and tech cases at the IPEC. My most recent one involved an injunction against an internet service provider, where they had actual knowledge of another person using their service to infringe copyright. I always enjoy the application of facts to something we encounter every day in our real lives!”
What’s your favourite thing about being a barrister?
“I enjoy the variety. It is a cliche but no two days are the same in this job. I also enjoy being self employed as I can work to my own schedule.”
What do you do to relax?
“Outside of work, I host a podcast about books. I have interviewed Jess Phillips MP, Claire Wilson, and Louise Welsh. Last year, I really enjoyed interviewing Sir Ian Rankin about his work, as he was always a favourite author of mine! I also have a part-time Labrador and enjoy taking him to the beach!”
If you weren’t a barrister, what would you be?
“I am not sure! I keep threatening to finish writing the book I have been working on for 5 years, and still enjoy my politics!”
