What was your route into the profession?
On considering this question, I realise that if I was entering the profession now, I would identify as a person from a lower socio-economic background, the first in my family to go to university—a polytechnic at the time—and the first lawyer. I was academically bright (but had obstacles at school), and had a passion for books.
As such, my reference point of the legal profession was shaped by two television programmes. The first, The Paper Chase, followed the journey of a law student navigating complex case law and the rigours of a fictional law school, which piqued my interest. The second, LA Law, portrayed lawyers in sharp suits, dynamic courtroom advocacy, and glass corner offices, all of which drew me in!
Throughout my journey, my parents were supportive of my ambitions, often reminding me of a childhood pact (aged six or eight) made with a friend: she aspired to become a doctor, and I a solicitor. We both went on to achieve our goals.
Passing the Law Society Finals on my first attempt and securing my initial position at a law firm provided me with the opportunity to work alongside two outstanding partners specialising in defendant insurance law—a field I was previously unaware of. My exposure to this area during my training contract drew me in, particularly the prospect of providing legal advice to knowledgeable clients and building strong professional relationships. Early involvement in cases before the Court of Appeal further cemented my commitment to defendant insurance law, where my curiosity, client skills, and ability to build effective teams enabled me to progress rapidly to partnership.
I have been fortunate to work with public and private sector clients, leading to my involvement with the Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL) as part of the Public Sector Focus Team, where I witnessed first-hand the impact of policy on the profession, the justice system, and our clients.
I am keenly aware that the legal profession still has progress to make in terms of diversity and inclusion. The opportunity to join the National Committee and lead FOIL’s DEI initiatives was one I embraced wholeheartedly. Throughout my career, hard work, seizing opportunities, and ambition have been central to my progression—from junior lawyer to partnership and senior leadership roles within a top 50 law firm, to my current position as president of FOIL
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
One particularly significant event was the substantial consolidation of the defendant insurance market in the early 2000s. This period saw longstanding law firms and practices merging with, or being acquired by, larger firms within the sector. During this time, the two equity partners at my firm made the decision to leave private practice, which left relatively junior partners—including myself—to determine our future direction.
We were faced with a critical choice: whether to buy out the departing partners and attempt to navigate the evolving market, or to seek alternative avenues for career progression. It became clear to me that the market was unlikely to revert to a state that would sustainably support a diverse range of business models, including niche practices, in the foreseeable future. The decision to close the doors of Chapman Everatt was a difficult and poignant moment.
Nevertheless, as one chapter ended, new opportunities emerged. We explored various options to retain our loyal client base and embraced the challenge of starting anew. While the prospect was daunting, it ultimately proved to be a successful endeavour as I joined Browne Jacobson LLP with clients intact.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
I am pleased to say that there are a number of examples of inspiring lawyers, several of whom I am privileged to count among my friends.
However, if I were to highlight one particularly inspirational figure, it would be Dame Linda Dobbs DBE, who made history in 2004 as the first Black female High Court judge in England and Wales. Having been called to the Bar in 1981, she overcame significant challenges related to both gender and ethnicity, navigating overt discrimination throughout her career. Her achievements include not only an exemplary legal career but also contributions as a published author.
In 2004, Dame Linda Dobbs remarked: ‘Whilst the appointment might be seen as casting me into the role of standard bearer, I am simply a practitioner following a career path. I am confident nevertheless, that I am the first of many to come.’ It was another seven years before a further ethnic minority judge was appointed to the High Court.
Apart from her work as a practitioner, Dame Linda Dobbs has consistently advocated for greater diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, long before DEI became a widely recognised concept. She has mentored and advised others on inclusive practices, leaving a lasting impact on the profession.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
The answer is multifaceted and largely influenced by the stage of life at which I was able to consider alternative paths. In my younger years, I may have aspired to pursue acting, inspired by an exceptional drama teacher who was also French—although I am uncertain whether this would have led to a successful career in theatre! As I look ahead now, I see opportunities to utilise my skills to support charitable organisations in achieving their goals and hopefully prospering. So, an non-executive director with a portfolio career!
Who is your favorite fictional lawyer?
Taken from the cast of LA Law, it was and still is Jonathan Rollins, who joined the firm later in the series.
What change would you make to the profession?
If I were to suggest a change to the legal profession, it would be to further advance diversity and inclusion across all areas of practice. This is not only a social responsibility, but also a strategic driver of success. While the legal sector has made progress in recent years, there is still significant scope for improvement in ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to enter, develop, and thrive within the profession. Achieving this could involve targeted recruitment initiatives, transparent promotion processes, and robust mentorship schemes for underrepresented groups.
At a time when the Law Society has introduced its new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policy with an emphasis on promoting diverse leadership, and the Legal Services Board (LSB) has launched a consultation on ‘Encouraging a diverse legal profession’ as part of its proposed statement of policy, FOIL will be leveraging its collective voice to advocate for the interests of defendant insurance law firms throughout the consultation process.
How do you relax?
I run. Badly and not consistently.
Bridget Tatham, partner at Browne Jacobson and 2026 president of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers.
