University: London School of Economics and Political Science
Degree: International relations and history
Year of call: 2020
Position: Barrister

What attracted you to a career in law?  

I was attracted to a career in law, particularly commercial law, because of the intellectual challenge it offers. The area is dynamic, always presenting new and complex issues, which means that I'm continually learning. The variety of cases also allows me to gain a deeper understanding of different industries and how the world works, often in unexpected ways. In addition, the international aspect of the work offers opportunities to connect with people globally. Overall, it’s an absorbing and rewarding career that keeps me engaged and constantly growing.

Did you do a mini-pupillage? Would you advise other aspiring barristers to try to do one of these?

Yes, I completed a mini-pupillage and would strongly advise aspiring barristers to do the same. It offers invaluable insight into the day-to-day life at the Bar, allowing you to observe court proceedings and the work involved behind the scenes. It also provides a great opportunity to network and gain practical experience, which is important in strengthening your CV and making informed decisions about which sets you want to apply to.

What do you think made your application successful?

In the paper application, I think it’s important to demonstrate that you understand what is required of a barrister and match your skill set with those requirements. This includes the way you draft your form – it's an exercise in advocacy. On the day of the interview, I think it was my ability to be calm under pressure and effectively convey both my understanding of and commitment to a career at the Bar that made the difference.

What sort of work did you get involved with during pupillage?

During pupillage, I was involved in a wide range of commercial matters. My work included applications for interim relief, stakeholder proceedings and anti-suit injunctions. I also advised on and drafted pleadings in various disputes, including contractual issues, fraud, shareholder disputes, and the sale and carriage of goods.

Please discuss a specific case that you were involved with, outlining your role in the matter.

During my pupillage, one of the significant cases I worked on was Broadcasting Investment Group Ltd v Smith [2021] in the Court of Appeal. I acted as junior counsel, led by Joseph Sullivan, in a case that sought to clarify the reflective loss rule, as established in Prudential Assurance Co Ltd v Newman Industries Ltd [1982]. This was an important appeal concerning the limits of shareholder claims in situations where the company itself had suffered the primary loss. My role included research, preparing legal arguments and assisting in drafting submissions for the appeal. This experience allowed me to engage in detail with a complex and evolving area of company law and improved my understanding of appellate advocacy at a high level.

What do you most/least enjoy about your career as a barrister and why?

What I most enjoy about being a barrister is the intellectual challenge and constant learning. Commercial law, in particular, is incredibly dynamic and interesting. No matter how much experience you gain, there’s always something new to learn, and that keeps the job exciting and engaging. The variety of cases offers a deeper understanding of different industries, businesses and ways of working across the world. This not only expands your knowledge, but also provides a fascinating insight into the global economy and different cultures. On the other hand, one of the more challenging aspects of the role is the intensity and the pressure to constantly stay on top of such a wide range of complex matters. While this is intellectually rewarding, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when juggling multiple high-stakes cases. However, the stimulating nature of the work makes even the challenges fulfilling in the end.

What’s been the highlight of your time at the Bar so far?

The highlight of my time at the Bar so far has been making oral submissions independently in the Supreme Court during my second year of practice. I had the privilege of appearing in JTI POLSKA Sp. Z o.o. v Jakubowski [2023], which was recognised as one of The Lawyer magazine’s Top 10 Appeals of 2023. It was an incredible opportunity to contribute to such a significant case at an early stage in my career.

What’s the work/life balance like at your chambers? How often do you have late nights/work at weekends?

The work/life balance largely depends on your caseload. When you have a trial, the hours can be long, and late nights or weekend work may be necessary to prepare effectively. However, when you're not in the middle of a trial, there's much more flexibility. You can manage your own time and work as little or as much as needed, allowing for a good balance between professional and personal life during quieter periods.

What’s the wider culture like at chambers?

The wider culture at chambers is friendly and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on maintaining high standards of excellence. There’s a genuine sense of community, and the focus on quality work is matched by a commitment to professional development and mutual respect across all levels.

What diversity and inclusion initiatives is your chambers involved with?

Quadrant is actively involved in several diversity and inclusion initiatives. We participate in an outreach and mentoring programme with COMBAR, aimed at supporting aspiring barristers from underrepresented backgrounds. We also have initiatives specifically focused on supporting women at the Bar to promote gender equality in the profession. Chambers also organises talks and events designed to demystify life at the Bar, making it more accessible and welcoming to applicants from all backgrounds.

What are you reading at the moment?

Politics On the Edge by Rory Stewart