A Sunday morning court emergency was moment to remember

The introduction of The Children Act of 1989. It had major implications for everyone who worked with children, changing the standing of children and young people in law, introducing new concepts relating to the responsibilities of adults, changing the structure and functioning of the courts and providing a new range of orders relating to the care of children.

What law would you like to see changed?

Human Rights Legislation. Whilst I fully support the need for a Human Rights Act, I believe the current legislation is open to abuse.

What is the most exciting work you’ve ever done?

In the very early days of my career, successfully persuading a very senior judge to get out of bed early one Sunday morning to sit in a small town County Court and hear my application for an emergency protection order was an experience I will never forget.

Who in the legal world do you most admire?

Lord Denning, who died aged 100 in 1999. I believe that he was the greatest law-making judge of the century. His judgements were always simple, clear, vigorous and direct. He was not perturbed by disapproval in high places and was fiercely patriotic, as am I.

He was a fearless champion of the rights of the common man.

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

Keep a sense of humour and be prepared to burn the candle at both ends!

Oh and if you’re a woman make sure you have a patient, understanding life partner who likes to keep house and cook!