Today, for IWD, we are highlighting Andrea Chute.
Andrea is an employment and discrimination law specialist who advises on all claims before the employment tribunal. She has a particular expertise in dealing with complex and high-value employment and discrimination claims across a broad range of market sectors and has undertaken both claimant and respondent work for a wide variety of different sized organisations. Andrea has an interest in professional disciplinary and regulatory work.
What made you decide to pursue a career in Law?
“Watching “The Paper Chase”, an America series about the challenges faced by a group of law students under the tutelage of a rigorous professor. Speaking of TV series…if you have not seen Cleaver Greene in Rake…you’re welcome!”
What area of law were you drawn to?
“Employment – exploring the inner workings of diverse businesses is endlessly fascinating.”
How did your career begin?
“On one of my first days in Court, a hearing date mix up resulted in my having to hare around to the Central London County Court. Luckily, it was one I had prepared earlier!”
How has working in the legal services field changed?
“Well for one thing, we are now allowed to wear trousers, that only happened in the mid 1990’s. ”
What advice would you give females who wish to embark on a legal career?
“First, don’t be shy about asking for help. Second, if you are lucky enough to find a mentor cherish them, their informal advice and support will be invaluable. Third, stick with it, while some days are daunting, overall, it is an extremely rewarding career. ”
Who are some of your role models?
“In the stratosphere Lady Hale, for many things including being an outspoken advocate for improving diversity on the bench. Nearer to earth, Employment Judge Christa Christensen for her calm, meticulous even-handed approach, and Catherine Rayner, for her fabulous down to earth no-nonsense support as a colleague and who is now, I am pleased to say, an Employment Judge.”
