Called: 1990
Circuit: Midland
Chambers: 3PB
Elected as a Barrister Governing Bencher in 2024
PLEASE GIVE DETAILS OF YOUR CHAMBERS/ORGANISATION AND MAIN PRACTICE AREA(S).
I am a family silk specialising in children work (public and privte). I am head of family at 3PB and I am based at our Birmingham centre.
WHY DID YOU WANT TO BECOME A BENCHER?
I have been fortunate to meet people in my career who have supported and inspired me. I have tried to do the same for the members in our family group. A few years ago I started to be involved with Outreach work carried out by our Inn. I have been amazed by the quality of the candidates wanting to join our profession. I believe in the concept of “paying it forward”. I thought that by applying to become a Bencher. I may be able to offer more assistance to young people seeking to join our profession.
HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT FINDING THREE BENCHERS TO PROPOSE YOU?
I am a member of the Midlands Circuit. I was asked by two Benchers as to whether I would wish to be proposed. I was delighted to be approached. A third Bencher also contacted me offering support.
HOW HAD YOU DEMONSTRATED YOUR COMMITMENT TO THE INN BEFORE APPLYING TO BECOME A BENCHER?
I supported Outreach events when I was able to do so and attended Inner Temple events on circuit. I also demonstrated other interests showing that I had transferable skills, for example being head of our family group, being on our chambers’ board, speaking at events and being on the board of Women in Family Law.
IN ONE SENTENCE, WHY DO YOU BELIEVE BEING A BENCHER IS REWARDING?
I have met some amazing young, talented and enthusiastic entrants to our profession. It has been rewarding to think I might have helped them in a small way.
NAME SOMETHING ABOUT THE INN YOU HAVE LEARNED SINCE BECOMING A BENCHER?
The warmth of the welcome to all.