Spotlight shares advice to future lawyers and details the persons journey into the law.
If you want to nominate someone for a future spotlight, please do contact us on info@leedslawsociety.org.uk
This month the Spotlight is on Maryam Razzaq, Trainee Defence Solicitor at Fraser Masood Solicitors and Co-founder, Director of the Legal Lynk
Tell me about yourself:
My name is Maryam. I am 23 years old, currently a trainee criminal defence solicitor at Fraser Masood Solicitors and also studying towards the SQE. Additionally, I am one of the directors and co-founders of The Legal Lynk, which is a networking platform for women in law, specifically women from a minority background.
What made you want to study/enter law?
How I got into law is quite a long story, but I will share. Initially, I dropped out of college as I did not know what I wanted to do with my life, and I went straight into full-time work as I needed something to do with all this time that I suddenly had. I just happened to fall into an admin job at a local firm called Ridley and Hall. That’s where I realised that I wanted to be a lawyer. I had the firsthand opportunity to work alongside some incredible lawyers and some very inspirational people. I saw how they were changing lives and how exciting it all was, so that’s where it all began.
What was your journey into law like?
I think, for me, the beginning was probably the hardest. A little bit of background information: I’m a first-generation immigrant, and I come from a working-class family. Anyone who did pursue a professional career in the family went into health care. I am the only one that wanted to pursue a career in law. At the start, I lacked guidance, and then when I had finally decided that law is what I would like to do, I was hit with the reality that because I had dropped out of college, I did not have level three qualifications, which meant that no university would be able to take me on. At the time, this broke my heart, but I was very determined and found a local college that allowed me to complete an access course into law, which thankfully led to me starting my law degree.
When I started university, I was told that networking was so important by everyone around me; however, when I started networking, I found that I struggled to fit in. I did not drink, and I rarely saw other people that looked like me, so it became very daunting. I remember reaching out to a mentor I had at the time, and he advised that I just get over it and find a way to deal with it. This never sat right with me because why shouldn’t I say when events aren’t inclusive or diverse? This was one of my biggest reasons for setting up The Legal Lynk. I want to create a safe and diverse space for women in law. I’m not a man hater, but I also acknowledge that women deal with a whole different set of barriers to men. I eventually finished my degree (which felt like forever), and then it was time for me to apply for training contracts. If you had met me at this point, you’ll have noted how I lacked confidence and was very shy. Unfortunately, this led me to lose tons of opportunities, which was so frustrating as I knew that I could do the work required but I just lacked that inner confidence. There was a particular training contract that I applied for which I put a lot of energy into, and I was told that one of the main problems with me was that I clearly lacked confidence. This was when I realised that I really needed to pull my finger out and figure out how I was going to fake it until I made it. I made myself speak in front of large groups and lead meetings which really helped me build my confidence over time.
This is when I realised anything can be achieved if you put the work in. I then applied for the firm that I currently work at which is Fraser Masood, and I am feeling more confident than ever.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
There are so many pieces of advice I could share, but I think this could easily turn from a quick read to a dissertation if I did that. I would say, stay resilient, and every rejection creates a better and stronger candidate, and when it’s your time and you are ready, your training contract will come to you.
What is next on the list of goals?
At the moment, the goal is to qualify as a solicitor and get my police station accreditation. In the long run, I can see myself being a partner, whether it’s at the firm I currently work at or starting my very own firm, I do not know. I also hope to grow The Legal Lynk, and one of my biggest dreams is to maybe one day be able to offer a scholarship through The Legal Lynk to someone who dreams of being a lawyer but may not have the support or finance behind them.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The best piece of advice I have ever received is “to compare is to despair”. I remember being in my first year of university and being 20 years old whilst those around me and on LinkedIn were much younger or my age and much further in their careers. I spent a lot of wasted time comparing myself and making myself feel bad. I remember saying this to a friend who said to compare is to despair and suddenly the penny dropped, I realised that we are all on our own journeys, and it’s all about enjoying our journey. I no longer feel the need to compare myself to anyone and I’m much happier for it. If there are any younger students who feel this way and feel they haven’t gotten anywhere, just remember we retire at 60/70 (600 by the looks of it), so there’s no rush, enjoy it. When the time is right, your opportunities will come.
What is something I would not believe about you?
When I was born, my parents were told that I wouldn’t speak, or if I did, I would speak very little due to having an issue with my tongue. It’s so ironic because all I do is speak now!
Rukhsar Jahangir, Co- Founder and Director – The Legal Lynk
Tell me about yourself
I am currently 22 years old and in the midst of completing the Barrister Training course. My academic journey started with a Law Degree at Huddersfield University, where I was fortunate to secure a scholarship from The Honourable Society of Middle Temple, enabling me to pursue the Bar Course. I am the first in my family to pursue higher education and the only female to do so, which has been both challenging and rewarding.
What made you want to study/enter law?
Initially, I was set on a career in Medicine. However, my passion for debating during sixth form and my experiences at the West Yorkshire Police Cadets sparked a shift towards law. The exposure to legal concepts and the thrill of advocacy ultimately convinced me to pursue law as my path.
What was your journey into law like?
My journey into law was marked by uncertainty and challenges. Starting university amidst the COVID-19 pandemic without any prior connections to the legal field posed its difficulties. However, through diligent research, attending events, and self-education, I gradually navigated my way. With the support of academics, colleagues, and peers, I seized every opportunity, pushing my boundaries to discover more about myself and what I aimed to achieve through studying law.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
I would advise junior members to embrace their journey and engage in activities that genuinely enrich them as individuals. Merely accumulating experiences for the CV’s sake is not beneficial ; true growth comes from pursuing passions and interests. Enjoying the process is key to not only professional success but also personal fulfillment.
What is next on the list of goals?
My next goal is to secure pupillage , another step towards becoming a Barrister! I am also looking forward to expanding The Legal Lynk (CIC) to provide a further impact in the community and the legal field
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
One of the most impactful pieces of advice I have received is “Don’t say no to yourself before anyone else does” . It is a reminder to have faith in your abilities and not let self-doubt hinder your progress.
What is something I would not believe about you?
It might surprise you to learn that at the age of 14, I enrolled in an International Studies program with a UK institution to pursue an Islamic Studies and Arabic (Alimah) course. Over the span of six years, I dedicated myself to this program that not only provided me with a comprehensive understanding of Islamic Sciences but also equipped me with proficiency in the Arabic language, which is crucial for accessing traditional Islamic texts and scholarly works.
Throughout the six-year journey, I immersed myself in the study of various disciplines within Islamic sciences, including theology, jurisprudence, Quranic exegesis, and Hadith studies. Each subject was meticulously taught, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of Islamic principles and doctrines. Beyond academic learning, the course instilled in me a deep appreciation for Islamic heritage and culture.
June Venters KC
Tell me about yourself
My name is June Venters KC and I am solicitor, barrister, KC, wife, mother and most recently a grandmother and I don’t get much time to stop and consider which of these is the most challenging! I specialise in family and children law and work on the South East circuit and North East circuit as a door tenant for KBW Chambers in Leeds. I am also the founder of Venters Solicitors based in London and Surrey. The firm has 4 offices, and we employ around 30 staff.
What made you want to study/enter law?
I was born and brought up in Peckham, South London, an area where I was witness to social deprivation, crime and injustice. Living in a council flat opposite a vagrant’s hostel in an area where crime was on the increase and where, at times I feared for my safety and the safety of my parents, I felt compelled to follow a career where I could potentially make a difference. I had a strong work ethos, which I absorbed from my parents and was fortunate enough to attend a state Grammar School. I had a real desire to learn. I was the unusual pupil whose parents were called into school because I was working too hard! From a very early age I often visited my mother’s office in Fleet Street where she worked initially as a legal secretary and then as a legal executive. At the age of 14, I accompanied Charlie Kray to the Old Bailey, only realising the significance of that journey when discussing the day with my Father who was somewhat horrified to learn about my day! I believe those days visiting the office where my Mother worked and later doing the equivalent of “work experience” there, gave me the insight about what being a lawyer was all about.
What was your journey into law like?
I didn’t have the most conventional background or journey to becoming a lawyer. I first became a trainee legal executive for a commercial practice in Fleet Street. I had never considered becoming a solicitor or barrister, believing that was beyond my ability. An opportunity arose when I was informed, I was being made redundant as the department was closing. I met with a friend who was attending “Law School” the following Monday having applied three years in advance. Whilst feeling very sorry for myself at being made redundant, on the same day, her boss suggested I should also attend Law School with my friend. Disbelieving I could gain a place at such short notice, he made the call and quite unexpectedly he was informed a cancellation had just been received – hence I started the following Monday. It was when I went through the doors of Law School and had my first lecture that I knew I was where I should be! I qualified as a Legal Executive in 1979 and after a further period of study I became a solicitor in 1984.
I’m a dual qualified solicitor and barrister which is unusual, but I am first and foremost an advocate. I admire the Bar and I am proud to be a part of both the Bar and the Solicitor’s profession. I believe that during the course of my career we have seen a “merging of our professions” evidenced by Direct Access and Solicitor Advocates, by way of example. In time, I believe that the two professions will eventually merge, albeit having different roles. I wanted to be at the forefront of that change.”
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
My advice to the junior members of the profession is to never give up and never lose faith in yourself. Have a clear vision of your career goals and get the support you need to make it happen. I am a firm believer in developing and nurturing the younger generation and this is something I do with my team at Venters Solicitors. Advocacy is obviously a huge passion of mine, and I do try to encourage junior members into doing their own advocacy as this does often give them a point of difference in an often crowded and competitive market.
What is next on the list of goals?
To strive to be the best that I can be. It was that which caused me to pursue the career path I have chosen. I take immense pride in the work that I do. I went into the law wanting to make a difference and that desire remains.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The best piece of advice I ever received was from a retired Supreme Court Judge who called me and advised me to apply to become a QC. I had appeared before him on a complex family matter, and he called my office to suggest I should apply, totally out of the blue. The thought would never have occurred to me without his suggestion. I am forever indebted to him. After much persuasion I applied not expecting I would be considered. The day I received the letter informing me of my appointment was surreal. We had just returned from holiday. I opened the letter without my reading glasses and struggled to read what it said but thought I saw the word “congratulations.” On passing the letter to my husband he became very excited and animated much to the amusement and consternation of my then 9-year-old daughter, who on hearing the word “Queen” ran next door to her best friend and announced to his mother that “mummy has just been made a Queen.” Therefore, personally this has the fondest of memories, even if my daughter berates me whenever I tell this story. On a professional level, I can honestly say it was a mixed reaction. I don’t think the Bar knew what to make of it and I felt that in some parts of the profession, as a whole, there was some resentment. However, I appreciate being the “first” can sometimes generate uncertainty.
What is something I would not believe about you?
Having been made a silk on the recommendation of the then Government, going on to berate the prime minister, Tony Blair, in person when I was introduced to him for all the legal aid cuts that were taking place. He was rather taken aback having been introduced to me with the expectation I would be eternally grateful to have been the first woman solicitor to be appointed Queen’s Counsel. Instead, I took the opportunity to remind him of the vulnerable clients who were now being deprived of access to justice about which I held him and his then advisers, responsible. I am not sure if he ever regretted my appointment but, at the least, I hope I demonstrated my advocacy skills!
Chloe Branton
Family Law Practitioner
Park Lane Plowden Chambers
Tell me about yourself
My name is Chloe Branton and I am a family law practitioner at Parklane Plowden Chambers. I was born and raised in York, and went to my local comprehensive school, before going on to Lancaster University where I studied law (2015-18). I completed by BPTC LLM in Leeds (2018-19), and always wanted to stay in Yorkshire. I work predominantly on the North Eastern Circuit. I became a pupil barrister in 2019, and a tenant in 2020. I am autistic and dyspraxic having been diagnosed as a teenager. I would therefore consider myself to be a disabled barrister. I feel my experiences as a working-class, disabled woman and carer to family members make me an effective and empathetic lawyer.
What made you want to study/enter into law?
As well as being disabled myself, I grew up helping to care for my younger sister who is severely disabled. There is only around 2 years difference between us age wise, and I have always been protective of her. Seeing the struggles my parents went through to ensure she received the care and support she needed as a child was what got me interested in a legal career. They still inspire me today with their commitment to ensuring she receives that support. I grew up having social care involvement in my life as a result, and that got me interested in seeing what social workers do. That research led me to look at the concept of public law care proceedings. The legal system around that really interested me as a young teenager, and I decided from then on that I wanted to pursue a legal career. I also found law itself interesting, and knew I wanted to study law at university.
What was your journey into law like?
I have always been academic and enjoyed studying at school and university. I particularly enjoyed my family law and health care law modules at university, and also liked taking part in mooting competitions. I was interested in either going down the academic route or entering practice. Mini-pupillages, vacation schemes and inn scholarships helped show me the reality of life as a lawyer and confirmed my interest in practising in children law. Support from my parents, practitioners, and my inn was crucial for me to become a barrister. The cost of completing the bar course is very high, and without a scholarship from the Inner Temple I could not have done it in 2018.
My journey wasn’t easy, I had care commitments to my sister and then to my mother who became unwell during my bar course exams. I was also plagued with self-doubt, and still struggle with imposter syndrome to date. As a young working-class girl with no connections to lawyers through family, I felt I had to work hard to forge those connections, get good results, and make it into the profession. I hope to return the favour to aspiring lawyers, and now give back as a mentor for students interested in a career at the bar.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
Coming from a ‘non-traditional’ background is actually an asset for you in your career, and you should highlight those skills that your unique circumstances give you to show why you would make a great lawyer when interviewing. Once you join the profession, continue to use those skills to be the best advocate you can for your client, but remember also to advocate for yourself and the wellbeing of other colleagues.
What is next on the list of goals?
I hope to continue to develop my career, and potentially look into judicial roles in the future. In my practice to date, I have had the opportunity to write articles for the Family Law Journal, and to speak at family law conferences and provide talks in chambers. I find that these opportunities mean I get the best of both worlds with my court practice and the chance to still research and present on topics that interest me. Therefore, I hope to continue to take part in those activities alongside my regular court practice.
What has been your career highlight to date?
In 2022 I undertook a Pegasus Scholarship to the YSA to experience the family justice system in various states for 6-weeks. I acted as an ambassador for the Bar of England and Wales during my placement and had the opportunity to observe advocacy in various areas of law, from district court to supreme court level.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
I have received some great advice over the years from friends, family and colleagues. I remember receiving some great advice from a barrister at my inn relating to applications. They advised that I should always remember that interviews are a two-way process. An applicant for a role should view the application process as a chance to see if that firm or chambers is right for them. Linked to this, they also advised that you should be yourself because you should want to be accepted or rejected based on an authentic representation of yourself rather than putting on a persona of what you think the firm or chambers is looking for in a candidate.
What is something I wouldn’t believe about you?
This is a tricky one! I think you would be surprised to know that I do am-dram in my spare time. I enjoy both watching and being involved in theatre performances. In February I was part of a cast performing The Little Mermaid, with roles including ‘dancing fish’ and ‘tap dancing seagull’. It is a good way to unwind after court and have fun with a group of people with very different work-lives to my own.
Kieran Conlon, Trainee Solicitor Consilia Legal
Tell me about yourself
My name is Kieran Conlon. I am a trainee solicitor at Consilia Legal which is a niche law firm specialising in all aspects of private family and employment law. I hold an undergraduate LLB and postgraduate LLM in Legal Practice having obtained both of them at Leeds Beckett University. I have worked at Consilia for four years now and am due to qualify as a solicitor on 4th July 2024.
What made you want to study/enter law?
At school I was always interested in debating and putting my views across although I have to confess that I fell into the law by accident. When I began my A-Levels I took law because it sounded interesting at the taster day and had planned on dropping it at the end of my AS Levels to pursue sciences at university level. However, I had a brilliant A-Level law teacher (Jayne Fry at Notre Dame Sixth Form College in Leeds) who was really encouraging and her lessons really sparked my interest in the subject. I decided to stick with it and by the time university applications came around, it had become clear that law was the only subject for me.
What was your journey into law like?
Once I had decided that law was the subject and the career I wanted to pursue, that was when the journey really began for me. It wasn’t the easiest of journeys. At the end of my first year at university, the transplant I had received a few years earlier stopped working and I went back onto dialysis until another transplant became available. I had dialysis 3 days per week for 5 hours per day whilst studying full time for my undergraduate and then postgraduate degrees. My studies were regularly interrupted with hospital stays and a lot of operations but nonetheless I managed to graduate. I then took up a paralegal role at Consilia until, 7 years after I had gone back onto dialysis, I received a new transplant. From that point things became a lot easier and my career has been on the up. I’m now looking forward to qualifying as a solicitor some 10 years after I first began my studies.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
The best and most important piece of advice I would give to junior member of the profession is to persevere. It’s no secret that the profession is a tough one and we all face obstacles on the way but the way we deal with them is what puts us in good stead to move forward. I have also found that making connections with other junior professionals has been invaluable. You soon realise that, whether it’s in the legal or any other profession, you all have the same or similar experiences in your work and it can be a comfort and confidence booster to share those experiences and get feedback.
What is next on the list of goals?
My goal is to reach qualification in July and then begin to really hone my skills as a solicitor and explore what more I can do in the wider legal profession by reaching out to as many people and opportunities as I can.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Be passionate about what you do in a world that tells you to be cool.
What is something I would not believe about you?
Music is the one thing I could not live without, although my taste is a really odd mix of country, garage and 90s rave anthems for reasons I don’t quite understand.
Leo Jones- Rowe Partner, Schofield Sweeney
Tell me about yourself
I am a partner at Schofield Sweeney in Leeds and specialise in Commercial Litigation. I am also Co-Chair of the Board of Trustees of local homelessness charity, Simon on the Streets. I grew up in Darlington in Co. Durham and am a proud north-easterner. However, I have lived in Yorkshire for over 17 years, so my accent now comes with a Yorkshire lilt. I am of mixed-race, with my father hailing from Ibadan in Nigeria and my mother from Co. Durham. I would say that race is a hugely important factor in making me the person I am today.
What made you want to study/enter into law?
In truth, I actually wanted to be an actor until I was around 17 years old, and spent a lot of my spare time in amateur dramatics. Despite this, I surprisingly found my A-Level in Law to be way more interesting than that of Theatre Studies. I never looked back after that. I immersed myself in learning about the law, which piqued my interest in problem solving, commerciality and debating. Almost 25 years later, I am relieved to say the excitement still remains.
What was your journey into law like?
After my A-Levels, I went on to study Law at De Montfort University and then the LPC at Nottingham Law School. I secured a training contract at DLA Piper, before moving to DWF. I was appointed a partner at 8-years PQE at Schofield Sweeney, and have been here almost seven years now.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
As Schofield Sweeney’s Training Principal, I really enjoy dispensing advice to our junior team members, whether they want it or not. Such advice includes:
(1) keep an open mind on areas of practice (I, erroneously, presumed I would be a Corporate lawyer… until doing a seat in it demonstrated that I much preferred corporate disputes);
(2) build and maintain your network from the very start of your career (your biggest client in the future might be a school friend from the past);
(3) always ask questions (there’s no such thing as a ‘stupid question’);
(4) absorb things like a sponge in the office;
(5) work with as many team members as you can to expose yourself to different clients, specialisms and ways of working; and
(6) you’re now in a privileged position – give back to society and support others!
What is next on the list of goals?
At the risk of sounding slightly corny, I want to use my position and experience to help others. I love seeing my junior colleagues blossom and develop into renowned lawyers in their own right. I also find my voluntary work to be hugely rewarding. At present, I am supporting a charity which helps the most vulnerable in society. When my tenure ends there, I would like to get involved in social mobility initiatives. Having grown up in a deprived area of the north east, this remains a cause very close to my heart.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Don’t change for anyone” (thanks, mum!).
What is something I wouldn’t believe about you?
I once emphatically lost a dance-off against Game of Thrones’ star, Maisie Williams.
Zira Hussain, Barrister, Broadway Chambers
Tell Me About Yourself?
I am part of the expert legal team in Broadway House Chambers, having practised exclusively in family law with a particular focus in financial remedies. I also undertake children work and accept instructions to sit as a Private FDR Judge.
Being a working-class, state-educated Pakistani Muslim female has given me life experiences which enable me to have a better understanding of my client’s needs and a high degree of empathy.
As the daughter of illiterate, working-class immigrants, and having spent my formative years living in rural Azad Kashmir, I did not learn to speak English fluently until the age of nine. This has inevitably given me a certain amount of resilience and determination.
I have practised exclusively in family law since completing pupillage. While my expertise extends across all areas of family work, my preferred area of practice is financial remedy. I’m fortunate that my chambers, Broadway House Chambers, has an outstanding reputation for financial remedy work and many of my colleagues in the family team are leaders in this field. Being part of such an expert team means there is collective sharing of knowledge and experience, which can be invaluable.
What made you want to study/enter law?
I’ve always had an inherent sense of justice and a desire to be intellectually challenged. This, coupled with my love of debate, made law the perfect subject for me to study and later enter into as a career.
The impact that working in family law can have on the lives of individuals is invaluable, particularly those who are vulnerable and need support for their voices to be heard. Being fluent in Urdu and Punjabi has also enabled me to connect and advise with those I represent to build trust and confidence in the legal process. This has aided me in my focussed efforts to safeguard vulnerable people in ethnic minorities.
What was your journey into law like?
I studied A-Level law, which unlocked my interest in the subject. Originally, I wanted to qualify as a solicitor, but towards the end of my degree my parents encouraged me to apply for the then Bar Vocational Course. Initially, I was very hesitant. At that time (the mid-1990s), the Bar was dominated by white, middle class men, and I didn’t think I stood a chance, despite the fact I knew I was more than capable.
It is to be noted that recently, the Women and Equalities Committee found that many Muslim women face triple discrimination when trying to enter the workplace. They face a penalty for being a woman, for being from an ethnic minority background and for being Muslim. It also found that Muslim women are the most economically disadvantaged group in British Society.
I received incredible support, advice and guidance from my tutors at the University of Huddersfield which made a career at the Bar possible. There were only three students from my cohort who went onto study the then Bar Vocational Course. I was the only female. There are two of us who qualified and continue to practise at the Bar.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
If you are coming from a diverse or atypical background, it is important to remember that these personal factors can benefit you in your journey into the law profession. Building a strong sense of resilience and empathy is essential for this field, and these qualities and past experiences can provide a strong foundation.
Considering what you’ve achieved already, what are your next goals?
In addition to continuing to build a first-class family law practice, I aim to continue to empower and inspire BAME women in the legal profession, especially at the Bar. I am currently mentoring two aspirig BAME female barristers. I also want to ensure that legal services are readily available to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in society and there is access to legal aid for such cases.
Best advice you’ve received?
My amazing tutors at the University of Huddersfield taught me one’s tenacity, hard work and a hunger for justice can determine professional success within law.
Something I wouldn’t believe about you?
I was the quietest person in my class at school. I was encouraged to do drama and the theatre arts to come out of my shell, and by heck did I come out of my shell! That’s what has made me into the strong personality that I am today. https://www.broadwayhouse.co.uk/people/zira-hussain
Ingrid Munyaneza , Chartered Legal Executive, Gordons LLP
Tell me about yourself
My name is Ingrid. I moved to the UK at the age of 11 and I live in Bradford. I went to high school at Belle Vue Girls’ and then to Keele University after sixth form. I graduated in 2010 with an LLB in Law with Economics. I currently work at Gordons LLP as a Chartered Legal Executive.
What made you want to study/enter into law?
I chose law because it is very diverse in terms of areas of practice and also to deviate from the medical profession which is dominant within my family.
What was your journey into law like?
I started applying for jobs within the legal profession during my last year of university. I was offered a position as a Remortgage Assistant at Enact Conveyancing where I embarked on my Legal career journey. I then joined Gordons as a Conveyancing Assistant and chose to go down the CILEX route in terms of qualification. I had to show hard work, commitment and determination for the firm to be behind me through my qualification.
How, (if at all) has your race and/or gender influenced your experience of the law?
I believe that I have been very fortunate in that Gordons as firm is committed in ensuring that employees from all backgrounds have the same level of support in respect to career progression.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
Be inquisitive and try to explore different areas within the profession.
Considering how much you have achieved so far, what is next on the list of goals?
To reach out and inspire a wider younger generation especially those from ethnic minority.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
That there is no failure in life but merely lessons.
What is something I wouldn’t believe about you?
I was in care from the age of 12. I also play the drums.
Suzzie Onyeka Oyakhire PhD,
Senior Lecturer, Leeds Beckett University
Tell me about yourself
My name is Suzzie Onyeka Oyakhire. I hold a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Benin Nigeria where I graduated with a second class in the upper division. I have a LLM (International Law) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Law (PhD) both from the University of Cape Town in South Africa, I am qualified to practice law as a barrister and solicitor in Nigeria. I am a Senior Lecturer at the Leeds Law School, Leeds Beckett University. I have a passion for teaching and enjoy imparting knowledge on people in and out of the classroom. I am organised and I like to meet and interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. This gives me an opportunity to learn about different cultures and new things which I find interesting.
What made you want to study/enter into law?
Interestingly, my earliest influence was from movies with court room scenes and John Grisham novels which I watched and read in my teens. I was fascinated by the idea of getting justice and the whole process of examination and cross examination especially in movies with a criminal law context; these were my first source of inspiration. Eventually, I realised that I had more interest in the teaching of law, and so very early in my undergraduate days, I nursed the desire of being in the legal academia.
What was your journey into law like?
I think I figured it out early enough that not only did I want to be a lawyer, but I especially wanted to be in academia. Nothing good comes easy so I have had to work hard to get from one stage to the next.
How, (if at all) has your race and/or gender influenced your experience of the law?
My race and gender have made me more conscious of the hegemonic structures on which the legal profession is built.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
Trust the process, be open to criticism and take it one step at a time.
Considering how much you have achieved so far, what is next on the list of goals?
I am open to more collaborative research that has real life impact on people especially in improving their interactions with the justice system.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Nothing good comes easy.
Last months spotlight was Hitesh Tailor, Corporate and Mergers & Acquisitions Lawyer (Legal Director) at Clarion Solicitors
What made you want to study/enter law?
A career in law can often be daunting for people from Asian backgrounds; they often don’t have people to look up to nor people to whom they can relate which means that law is often disregarded as a serious career choice. I remember my parents, who have always been supportive of my life choices, expressing concern when I mentioned studying law at university and pursuing a legal career as they were aware of other Asian parents’ children who were very bright but had faced difficulties when trying to secure jobs after completing their law degree and did not want the same to happen to me.
I was the first person in my family to go to university.
What was your journey into law like?
After graduating from Northumbria University I was able to secure a training contract in a large international law firms which gave me a fantastic breadth of experience and an excellent platform to develop my career. I have been working in the legal profession for over 15 years and BAME representation at all levels is still poor and is not representative of the society we live in.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
Looking at law firms from the eyes of people from the BAME community, I can understand why they see entering the legal profession as something that is not for them and, in all honesty, it is often a question I have found asking myself even though I have been in this profession for a number of years.
Although it does take time for diversity statistics to change, the legal profession as a whole has so much to do in making sure that a career path in law is open and inclusive to people from all cultures and ethnicities and it is refreshing that Clarion acknowledges that we all have a part to play in this which is very much is the Clarion way. It is not just one person who can make a difference to the firm’s diversity and inclusion but we all do, however, if I can inspire or dispel any misconceptions people (from the BAME community or otherwise) who feel that they may not fit in at Clarion (or the legal profession), I feel that I am making a positive contribution.
Considering how much you have achieved so far, what is next on the list of goals?
Since joining Clarion in 2018, Hitesh has become renowned for his expertise in corporate law, finding an appreciation for owner managed businesses where the growth of a business means so much more to the founders. Having a personal connection with his clients, and with the industries that they operate within, is a real strength of his, and he has a particular fondness for corporate matters in the retail, technology and ed-technology sectors.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
It’s a famous quote which has stuck with me: “Don’t count the days, make the days count”. Make the most of each day whether at work or in your personal life. Achieving something every day, even if it is small, gives you a great positive feeling. We often set ourselves unachievable goals, but breaking these down and achieving small “wins” really does boost your confidence and overall outlook.
What is something I would not believe about you?
I’ve travelled a lot across South Africa which has taken me taken me along many well trodden tourist paths such as to the top of Table Mountain, getting up close to animals on land on a safari and also swimming with sharks in the sea (which is probably not on most tourists check list!).
In August our Spotlight was on Scott Halliday, Senior Associate Solicitor, Irwin Mitchell LLP
Tell me about yourself
I am a Family Law Senior Associate at Irwin Mitchell LLP. I work predominantly in Leeds and London, with clients nationwide. I am 31 years old. I am a gay man. I am a proud Geordie having grown up close by to Newcastle at the coast in South Shields , the place where many finish the Great North Run. The best time of year for me is summer, I love the heat. I also enjoy reading , art , running and good wine/food with friends. It is a running joke that I am not the best with IT/technology!
What made you want to study/enter into law?
From quite a young age I was interested in politics and debate. I used to write short articles for the local newspaper on random stories examples include: organic farming/battery farming , US elections, war and wider politics. I was only about 13-14 years old. The newspaper had no idea of my age, my grandad used to take the written pieces to the newspaper. I recognise now that they must have thought I was an adult (my grandfather the author), but they never asked. My family and school teachers were aware , they encouraged it.
I needed to focus my mind on something interesting , which was intellectually demanding but had an overt human element. I was useless at science, though it did interest me, but I had no eyes on becoming a medic. Law seemed like a natural fit. It was demanding , interesting and there was always going to be more to learn and understand. It was never going to be limiting in that sense.
I also wanted a career that meant I was focused on using knowledge and my wider skillset to support people. I suppose also there was a sense that law had a prestige. I do not come from a family of lawyers , accountants , medics etc. – I wanted to be part of it and liked the idea of breaking into the professions with shear hard work. It was a challenge and something which was limitless and interesting.
What was your journey into law like?
In many ways my route into the law is on paper highly conventional , but it took a huge amount of hard work and , very often, entering rooms or institutions (and securing scholarships) for the first time with no real experience or understanding , from friends or family, of university education and/or the legal world. I was, I suppose, absolutely set and determined from a young age.
I studied in the north east of England for my GCSEs , then attended sixth form, which included a very long bus ride each day from home, to study my A-Levels. I had a few wonderful teachers. They supported me and inspired me. I then read law at the University of York. I will forever be indebted to the University – the atmosphere , ability to learn/thrive and financial support through scholarships.
I graduated with a First Class LL.B law degree (2013) and secured several really favourable and special scholarships to support further studies around that time. I was extremely fortunate. I was a 50th anniversary scholar at York which meant I was able to live and study in Seoul , South Korea, at the International Summer Institute at Seoul National University , focusing on international politics and philosophy. I was then the Bridge Fund scholar of law and completed an LL.M in international human rights law and practice. The LPC followed , I had secured my training contract whilst an undergraduate in York. I have worked at Irwin Mitchell LLP for now 8 years , spending time over the years in Sheffield , Newcastle, Leeds and London. I am mostly now in Leeds and London.
I recognise the path I embarked on , seems, on first blush, conventional, I suppose it is, but I was acutely aware during my earlier years how hard I had worked and how far I had progressed from those much younger years. It was a mixture of fake it until you make it , together with huge amounts of work and sacrifice I suppose. It was lots of fun too I should add.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
Work hard and develop your craft. At the end of the day, we are legal professionals. We have clients who need a service. We need to be experts and absolutely bring all of your experiences and skills to the table for our clients. You have to build the mental resilience and intellectual capacity when you are a junior member of the profession to ensure longer term you can ‘go there’ and deliver under pressure longer term. There has to be balance of course.
That all said , cliché as it may sound, crucially, never forget where you come from, why you started on this journey into the law and ensure those values and that enthusiasm stays with you.
Finally, find some close sincere colleagues / members of the profession. Collect them as you go. You will recognise them when you see them. You do not need loads. Hold them dearly. They will support you and ground you and many will enable you as you progress. They are likely to be lifelong friends too.
Considering how much you have achieved so far, what is next on the list of goals?
I have mentored and supported informally several future LGBT+ solicitors and barristers, I really want to see some of them come through and make their own mark. Many are starting out and I wish them well, it is now only a matter of time.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time” Maya Angelou
What is something I wouldn’t believe about you?
I almost certainly have more pairs of glasses than I do socks at home , I must have a dozen pairs now!
Julys Spotlight was Ayesha Smart – Exchange Chambers
Tell me about yourself
I am of dual heritage. My mother moved from Sri-Lanka to the UK for university where she met my father, who was raised in South Africa, and was doing his second degree. I have been immersed in Sri-Lankan culture from a young age and even learnt Bharatanatyam and Tamil (good at the former and awful at the latter).
I’m a keen musician and was taught the piano at the age of 3 before learning the trumpet, alto saxophone and teaching myself the bass guitar. I love water sports and snowsports and enjoy getting away to pursue these activities. I’m also a huge animal lover and spend a lot of time in the Yorkshire countryside walking with my two Northern Inuits.
What made you want to study/enter into law?
Initially, I was passionate about the sciences and my aspiration was to work as a missionary doctor. In hindsight, my strengths at school should have pointed me in the direction of law. During my first undergraduate degree at the University of Leeds I took an elective module which was a little outside the norm for medical science. It was “A History of Medicine”. This module didn’t just involve lectures, but also included debating in group sessions and discussing the practices and theories in medicine throughout various periods. This first sparked my interest in constructive arguments, and I excelled in this module, so when I decided to move away from the sciences, I tested the waters with an LLM in Medical Law and Ethics at the University of Edinburgh. Everything really fell into place thereafter when I made the switch.
What was your journey into law like?
I thought my journey into law would be a difficult one, firstly because there were no lawyers in my immediate family to offer advice or work experience! They largely come from medical, engineering or mathematical backgrounds and so I had to be proactive about obtaining relevant work experience and use the facilities at university and my inn for career support in order to acquire pupillage. However, once I started embarking upon my legal studies things fell into place quite quickly. Initially I wasn’t sure whether the bar was really an option for me, but I applied to Gray’s Inn for a GDL scholarship and was successful. I took this as a sign really that this was the right route for me. In addition, I was fortunate enough to acquire pupillage quite quickly whilst on the conversion course, which meant the pressure of applying was removed when I started the bar course. I was really lucky however, and I know how difficult it is for others of a similar cultural background, gender or social class to find their feet.
What advice would you give junior members of the profession?
The headline really is to be determined and don’t let others talk you down/out of your career aspirations. I’ve always suffered from imposter syndrome whilst at the bar and I would have packed in by now if it wasn’t for perseverance. It does get better with time, practice and making lots of mistakes! I think it is also important to remember that being a good barrister doesn’t necessarily make a good judge, so for those who feel out of place at the bar, or as a litigator, you might still be a good fit for the modern judiciary.
Also do not forget about your own wellbeing – learn to balance the job and your personal life early on. This is something I’ve become more conscious of the longer I’ve been practising, and I wish I had factored it in earlier on in my career. It certainly helps in avoiding burn out in the long run and makes a world of difference in your personal life and to your physical/mental health.
Considering how much you have achieved so far, what is next on the list of goals?
In all honesty, I achieved a Recordership a lot quicker than I expected, so I’m going to spend the next few years really learning the craft and honing my skills as a judge. There are a number of courses that I could take to extend the types of cases I can hear and cross-qualification in other jurisdictions. I then work out if it something I want to do this full time and make the relevant applications. Long term I’m also keen to get involved in the development of the judiciary internationally, particularly in Commonwealth countries.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead” – courtesy of Nelson Mandela.
What is something I wouldn’t believe about you?
I’m a big rock and metal fan… but I have never managed to shake off my disturbing love for the Eurovision!
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