Alternative dispute resolution seen as being common sense

What is the biggest development you have seen in the legal world during your career?

The biggest development I have seen in the legal world is the change in the procedural rules which govern the conduct of litigation and the associated development and growth in alternative dispute resolution. In ADR parties are encouraged to resolve their differences by negotiation rather than by litigation. It has always been a matter of common sense for me.

What law would you like to see changed?

As a matter of practice I have long held the view that there ought to be a separate waiting area at Leeds District Registry for those attending before a District Judge on family and child care matters. I have often sat in that waiting area and witnessed personal matters played out by distressed people in front of everyone waiting for a District Judge appointment. To my mind there should be more privacy for those matters though, given the present shortage of funding in relation to the court service, it remains to be seen whether there will ever be a separate waiting area available.

What is the most exciting work you have ever done?

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Excitement for me is not the right word. Satisfaction is the better description and there is nothing more satisfying than achieving justice for a client who has a genuine and just legal cause.

Who in the legal work do you most admire?

The solicitors and other fee earners who are working mothers.

Two of the ladies in my team are working mothers and it never fails to amaze me how they balance their working and home lives. I have nothing but admiration for them.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the profession?

Treat both clients and opposition with respect and never do to others that which you would not want them to do to you.

Remain objective in your conduct of matters and do not let it become personal.