International Women’s Day
A hundred years ago the first women were being admitted as Solicitors. It was a huge milestone following the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919. Who would have thought it back then, that the profession is now full of women practising in all sectors of the profession. In July 2019, 63.1% of new admissions were women.
By Helen Bishop, consultant lawyer and matrimonial specialist at Boardman Hawkins and Osborne
A hundred years ago the first women were being admitted as Solicitors. It was a huge milestone following the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919.
Who would have thought it back then, that the profession is now full of women practising in all sectors of the profession. In July 2019, 63.1% of new admissions were women.
Not only is this a huge step, but the profession is changing to allow both men and women to have more flexibility within their working lives to mix work and life in a more balanced and measured approach.
At Boardman Hawkins and Osborne, I believe we are leading the way in providing such flexibility and empowering solicitors by adopting a Consultancy model. This means we are self-employed, we manage our working days to suit our family lives so we can have the best of both worlds, a satisfying career and a quality private life.
This flexibility does not have any negative impact on client care, the reality is quite the opposite. By having this flexibility and being able to be fully committed to work, but able to take time to go to the school play or take a couple of hours off to visit a relative or have some ‘me time’, this creates such a positive atmosphere, and without a shadow of a doubt, it increases morale and team work.
I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that was founded by three inspirational, passionate female family lawyers. Emily, Ruth and Irena set up BH&O, which launched on the 3 September 2018. In less than 4 years, with their dynamic and positive approach and drive, BH&O has not just survived the worldwide pandemic over the last 2 years, but it has positively thrived. BH&O started with a team of 9 lawyers and administrative staff. We are now a team of 19!
BH&O is a fantastic example as to why today we should be celebrating International women’s day.
More in EDI
100th business pledges to support inclusivity and reduce inequality across Oxfordshire
The Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Partnership (OIEP), dedicated to fostering a fairer and more inclusive economy in Oxfordshire, has welcomed its 100th Charter member, Oxford University Development (OUD), the joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General, which has committed to actively promote inclusivity for a positive impact.
Unipart is pleased to sign the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Charter.
Unipart is pleased to sign the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Charter. Inclusivity has been at the heart of our values since our company began in 1987, and it continues to be a vital part of our strategy, which we’ve described as “Go Digital, Go Green, Go Faster.” Those three strategic drivers illustrate that adopting truly inclusive […]
Defining the journey towards diversity
Achieving a high standard of diversity in the workplace has become increasingly important – especially given the spotlight that has been shone on this aspect of business life by the recent global pandemic and the growing awareness of racial inequality around the world. For larger businesses there are also greater reporting requirements in this area from regulators and government.
From this author
Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne LLP continue long-standing B4 relationship
Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne LLP has recently entered their 6th year of operation, and their 6th renewal with B4, and 2nd as Platinum Members.
Separating couples and parents urged to avoid courtroom conflict as Family...
People who have decided to separate or divorce in 2025 are being urged to find out how to avoid courtroom confrontation to settle money and parenting arrangements, with the launch of Family Mediation Week, 27 – 31 January.
Boardman, Hawkins & Osborne Legal 500 Success
BH&O LLP goes ‘from strength to strength’, and is recommended for its strength in care proceedings, adoption, and finances, often representing unmarried couples.