Anna B

My Law Firm

Profile:

I am a Partner at Farrer & Co in the Employment Team and work predominantly on the contentious side of employment law – discrimination and whistleblowing claims, High Court actions for breaches of confidence and the like.

I am from Lancashire and went to state primary and secondary schools. I am the first lawyer in my family. Although I did study law as my undergraduate degree, I initialy decided against a career in a law firm and instead went on to study a masters in international politics and work in a charity, followed by the International Criminal Court.  When I decided I wanted to be a solicitor I started my LPC without a training contract and was lucky to secure one with an international City firm during the course of that year.  As an associate I made a move to join a boutique employment firm in the City where I stayed for ten years before joining Farrers in 2019.

I think one of the most daunting things coming into the legal profession from any under represented group is the feeling of imposter syndrome.  I felt like a fish out of water going for interviews – the shiny City offices seemed intimidating; it felt white, male and privileged.  I remember once making excuses not to go on a firm ski trip because I was mortified that my only experience on skis was the dry ski slope in Rossendale!  I hope that doesn’t resonate but if it does, know that it passes.

When it comes to diversity things have vastly improved but we still have a long way to go.  I feel positive seeing the diversity of talent coming into the profession but our challenge is ensuring we commit to inclusion to progress careers so that diversity at junior levels becomes better reflected at the senior end of the profession. Look for a firm where you feel able to be yourself and will be supported, find an area of law that you are genuinely interested in and you will succeed.  If I can be of help with any questions, I would be happy to be contacted.

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