At what stage in your career did you take on your first pro bono case?
I’ve been doing pro bono work continuously since I started in practice.
Why did you decide to undertake pro bono work?
It’s the right thing to do, and important to take on as broad a range of work as possible as an advocate.
What was the most memorable case you worked on, and what did you do?
Cole v Elder’s Voice. We took a case that was on the verge of being dismissed for good and persuaded the Employment Appeal Tribunal that there were solid arguments that the Tribunal did in fact have jurisdiction to hear it. I advised and represented the claimant from her oral permission hearing through the life of the appeal, and continue to represent her.
What effect did pro bono work have on your career?
A positive one. It provides you with a wider range of clients and work than if you stick to remunerated cases. You become a better and more rounded advocate as a result.
What is the most rewarding thing about doing pro bono work?
The ability to make a difference.
What advice would you give to any barrister unsure about whether to start doing pro bono work?
Do it. It’s your duty to give something back. You won’t resolve your hesitation until you start.