Lawyer Monthly - Women In Law Special Edition

LAWYER MONTHLY WOMEN IN LAW EDITION 38 How was the transition from studying law to practising? What shocked you the most? At law school, from the outset, all students were on a level playing field. University is the closest thing I have experienced to a true meritocracy (once you are in that is). How well you do compared with your peers is 100% dependent upon how much you avoid the student bars and put time in at the library. In practice, things are different. This became immediately apparent when I became a trainee solicitor and spoke to fellow trainees from other firms about their experiences. The common theme was that white men dominated senior positions, whilst women and ethnic minorities were visible in other positions. This was particularly so in male-dominated departments such as those dealing with M&A work. I would often hear about the old boys club. My firm has a lot of women in positions of responsibility in the team that I work in (personal injury) and women are in the majority rather than the minority. Your most challenging case: How did you overcome the challenges you faced? The most challenging case I have worked on to date is a clinical negligence case against a specific surgeon. Since we were first approached by the first cohort of claimants in October 2017, we have had over 50 clients join the group action, of which a small minority are men. The claims involve intimate surgery and it can be difficult to get sufficient instructions without coming across as clinical. You have to have an approachable, sympathetic approach to clients. When dealing with that many clients, managing their expectations and dealing with their competing demands is a challenge. In addition, getting to grips with the facts of the case requires in-depth technical knowledge by reading up on surgical techniques for the procedures involved and understanding the relevant medical terminology so that clients feel at ease (as well as understanding all relevant background issues). I find this work more rewarding than standard single claimant litigation as there are so many technical details involved and nuanced issues to consider, all the while ensuring we are working efficiently and proportionately. What is the most rewarding aspect of practising law? Undoubtedly, helping clients pursue claims which they would not have done without the support of me and my colleagues. At the end of the cases, I am so pleased that we have achieved a settlement for them that helps get their lives back on track. I cannot turn back time, I cannot make the injuries or pain go away, but the compensation provides them with the comfort and security needed to overcome the trauma they have experienced. For so many, pursuing a claim feels like a David and Goliath situation (and I am Erin Brockovich!); many of my clients are intimidated by the legal system, the court process and the idea of adversarial litigation. To guide them through that process is a very rewarding experience. How does the Women Lawyers Division help women? The Law Society is committed to promoting inclusion in the legal profession, reflecting the Touching on the transition from student to solicitor, Catherine speaks about what the most rewarding aspect of working in the legal sector is for her, as well as how the Division assists women in law. CATHERINE SLATTERY Q Q Q Q