As part of a concentrated effort to improve social mobility within the legal sector, Chadwick Lawrence, Yorkshire’s Legal People, has actively engaged in a pioneering project, exploring avenues to better the opportunities across the country, particularly within regional firms.
Within Chadwick Lawrence, narratives of unconventional career trajectories are far more prevalent than in many other firms, underscoring the firm's commitment to nurturing diverse talent and challenging conventional norms. The Breaking Down Barriers to Law initiative, launched in Parliament, marks a pivotal milestone in the legal sector's evolution towards inclusivity. By fostering collaboration among leading law firms and education providers, the initiative aims to dismantle systemic barriers and cultivate a more diverse and representative legal landscape.
Neil Wilson, managing partner, recounts his personal journey, to ascend to the pinnacle of his profession. "I changed careers at the age of 33 having studied my law degree and post graduate diploma part time on evenings and weekends whilst holding down a full time non-legal managerial position. I had no contacts whatsoever in the legal profession and I recall friends at the time saying I would have little hope in progressing a career as a solicitor without such contacts," emphasising the firm's support throughout his transition into the legal sphere.
Echoing these sentiments, Zoe Allen, an associate at Chadwick Lawrence, emphasises the significance of dismantling preconceived notions surrounding legal careers. "As a first-generation lawyer, without any connections in the profession, I've experienced firsthand the barriers aspiring lawyers face,"
“Gaining work experience and later becoming a legal apprentice with Chadwick Lawrence gave me the opportunity to pursue and flourish in my career, without which, my journey might have been quite different. 8 years on, I have gone from believing that a legal career was not accessible to me, to being an Associate in a law firm and the sky very much remains the limit,” says Zoe, highlighting the transformative impact of Chadwick Lawrence's inclusive approach.
Furthermore, Ellie Hirst, another associate, underscores the firm's commitment to promoting positive change within the legal sector. "It was an honour to represent Chadwick Lawrence at the launch ceremony for the Breaking Down Barriers to Law initiative."
“Having come from a background with no knowledge or contacts in the legal world, I understand that importance of regimes to encourage accessibility to the legal profession. The day itself was excellent and inspiring, and I enjoyed hearing from the Attorney General, Justine Greening and Members of Parliament to summarise the work done so far,” expresses Ellie, reflecting on the firm's dedication to driving change.
Catherine Milnes, HR manager at Chadwick Lawrence, reflects on her remarkable journey within the firm, spanning over three decades. "I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now without the opportunities, kindness, understanding, support, and guidance they have shown me throughout the last 35 years."
“When the time was right for me, I was still given an opportunity to develop and study for my CIPD qualification, the firm funding the course, providing a high level of mentoring and a job role to support my learning,” acknowledges Catherine, further highlighting the firm's profound impact on her professional trajectory.
The Breaking Down Barriers to Law initiative, launched in Parliament, marks a pivotal milestone in the legal sector's evolution towards inclusivity. By fostering collaboration among leading law firms, the initiative aims to dismantle systemic barriers and cultivate a more diverse and representative legal landscape.
Rt Hon Justine Greening, in commending the initiative, emphasises the transformative power of collaborative action in effecting meaningful change. "The legal sector has long been seen as a closed shop for many who might aspire to work in it," underscoring the imperative for collective action to drive social impact.
Chair of the Breaking Down Barriers Commission, Nick Forbes CBE, lauds the initiative's proactive approach to dismantling entrenched barriers within the legal profession. "This collaboration has seen a laser-like focus on creating career pathways beyond traditional networks," he remarks, signaling a shift in the legal sector's approach to inclusivity.
Paul Campbell, (pictured centre) senior partner of Chadwick Lawrence who took the lead in this project for the firm, explains “It was inevitable that we would be attracted to supporting the Breaking Down Barriers to Law initiative and we are not only proud to be a part of it but also keen to learn more from the peer firms we are meeting on this journey.”
As Chadwick Lawrence continues to champion diversity and accessibility within the legal profession, the firm remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. The firm has now committed to the second phase of the project which will be initiated in a roundtable discussion led by Alex Cunningham, MP, the Shadow Minister for legal services, and Nick Forbes, CBE, the former member of Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet.
