Tell us a little about yourself and your practice.
“I began my career as an academic but switched to train for the bar shortly after I moved to London from Edinburgh 25 years ago and never looked back! I love my work. It has intellectual challenge, interesting characters, and an opportunity to help people who find themselves in difficult situations. Employment law is my speciality but I also assist with commercial disputes and personal injury work.”
What is your first memory of wanting to be a barrister?
“As a university lecturer in my early 20s I began to try out a more adversarial style of teaching to engage students, which was designed to make them think on their feet. My students picked up the baton and ran with it, and I quickly found it meant I had to think on my feet as well! I found it inspiring, and realised that the bar might be the place for me. I was right.”
Is there a certain case that stands out to you in your career? If yes, why?
“When I was quite junior I had a case against an opponent who had been called to the bar before I was born. I took the view that he had brought his appeal in the wrong court, and that it fell to be heard in the Court of Appeal rather than the High Court. I was right, and that taught me to be bold and trust my own research even against more experienced opponents. However, the matter was listed before a High Court judge who (wrongly) found that my correct submission meant he did not have jurisdiction to make a costs order against my opponent, as only the correct Appeal Court could do that. That taught me to expect the unexpected, even when I am confident that I am right!”
What’s your favourite thing about being a barrister?
“I love meeting people, hearing their stories, and finding different ways to solve their problems.”
What do you do to relax?
“Walking the family dog and reading.”
If you weren’t a barrister, what would you be?
“A professional dancer (ballroom and latin).”