Breaking Barriers: From Secretary to Law Firm Owner
At 17 years old, I walked into a law office for the first time as a secretary to a lady lawyer. I had no idea that this role would be the first step on a long, challenging, and incredibly rewarding journey.
Today, I am proud to say that I am one of the owners of Coventry’s leading law firm, sitting on a board otherwise composed entirely of men. My story is one of determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of success in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
The Early Days: Learning from the Best
Starting my career as a legal secretary, I was fortunate to work under a remarkable female lawyer. Watching her navigate the legal world with confidence and expertise was inspiring. It planted the seed of ambition in me, showing me that there was a place for women in law—even if it wasn’t always an easy road to take.
Juggling Work and Study: The Path to Qualification
Determined to progress beyond the secretarial role, I began studying part-time while continuing to work full-time in legal practice. I first qualified as, what was the known as a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives — a significant milestone that affirmed my decision to pursue law as a career. But I wasn’t done yet. The ambition to become a fully qualified solicitor drove me to continue my studies for a total of nine years, balancing work, study, and life’s inevitable challenges.
There were many long nights, early mornings, weeks of nothing but work and moments of self-doubt. Working full-time while studying for hours every week demanded immense discipline, but I knew that each step forward was bringing me closer to my goal.
Becoming a Solicitor and Climbing the Ranks
When I finally qualified as a solicitor, it felt like the culmination of years of sacrifice and dedication. But in reality, it was just the beginning. I continued working in private practice, building my reputation, honing my skills, and demonstrating that I had the expertise and leadership to contribute at the highest levels.
With each year, I took on greater responsibilities, proving my value not just as a lawyer but as a leader. Eventually, I earned a seat at the boardroom table—a space often reserved for men. It was a moment of personal triumph, but more importantly, it signified that perseverance, skill, and commitment could break through barriers, regardless of gender.
Leading in a Male-Dominated Space
I am very fortunate that my Firm and my business partners are forward thinking and inclusive and whilst I’m the only female board member, I’m not the first and more women are now reaching senior positions with input into shaping the Firm for the future.
It hasn’t always been this way throughout my career. Sitting on a male dominated board and working in a male dominated field, presents its challenges, but I have always believed that success is driven by ability, not gender. At times in my career, I’ve had to assert myself in all types of situations and meetings, ensure that my voice is heard, and stand firm in my decisions. But I have never let being the only (or one of very few) woman in the room hold me back.
The legal profession is evolving, but there is still work to be done to ensure women have equal opportunities at all levels of leadership. Business owners and boards are still main dominated, and my hope is that my journey can inspire other young women to pursue law, knowing that their ambitions are valid and achievable.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Persistence
Reflecting on my journey, I recognise the power of persistence. I wasn’t handed opportunities—I worked tirelessly to create them. I hope my story serves as motivation for others, particularly young women entering the legal field, to push boundaries and carve out their own paths to success.
To those facing similar challenges: keep going. The road may be long, but the destination is worth every step.