Can you tell us a bit about your career to date?
I have worked for Sintons for over 32 years. I joined the firm as an articled clerk (trainee solicitor) in 1993. I spent the first half of my career as a personal injury litigator. Then I re-trained as a healthcare regulatory lawyer, working mainly for NHS Trust clients.
What attracted you to join Sintons?
When I joined, Sintons was a smaller law firm with a great reputation, back in 1993, I was one of only two female solicitors at the firm, which is hard to believe now!
What does your role involve?
I advise NHS Trusts and other healthcare providers on complex issues of medical law and ethics arising from patient care. My work centres on serious medical treatment advice pertaining to mental capacity, best interests decisions, deprivation of liberty, consent to treatment, end‑of‑life care, and safeguarding. I regularly represent Trusts in applications for treatment orders in the Court of Protection and Family Division of the High Court. My role is focused on supporting clinicians and organisations to make robust, defensible decisions in legally and ethically challenging situations.
What have been your personal highlights to date, both personal and professional?
Personal highlight – obtaining an LLM Master of Laws in Medical Law (with distinction) while simultaneously working as a solicitor and raising a young family.
Professional highlight – having one of my NHS Trust cases heard in the Supreme Court (the highest appeal court in the UK) – making important case law.
How does Sintons differ from other firms you have worked in?
I have only ever worked for Sintons, so that speaks for itself!
What are your interests outside of work?
Pottering in my greenhouse and tending to my cottage garden. Walking my lazy and sometimes reluctant wheaten terrier.
