Her journey started with an HNC in secretarial studies, which when looking for work after the birth of her son, led her to explore career opportunities in both law and accountancy. A module in employment law had piqued her interest during her studies, so when faced with the choice between a secretarial role at a law firm and one at an accountancy firm, she opted for law. It was a decision that would shape her entire future.
While working as a legal secretary, Louise was encouraged by a CILEX Family Lawyer to consider studying with CILEX (then known as ILEX). Determined to progress, she approached the firm’s partners, who agreed to fund her training. So began the challenging but rewarding balance of working full-time, studying, and being a single mother to a young baby.
Life took another unexpected turn when she moved to the Isle of Man, continuing her studies while working in law firms. However, she was suddenly struck down by fibromyalgia, a debilitating condition that left her in excruciating pain and, eventually, confined to a wheelchair. Many might have seen this as an insurmountable obstacle, but Louise was undeterred. With support from CILEX, she adapted to her new reality, dictating answers for her exams to ensure her studies continued.
After a change in circumstances, Louise returned to the UK with her son. Though too ill to work or study initially she was gradually able to return to both, passing her final exams in 2002. Even after having her resilience further tested in 2001 when she lost her father after a hard-fought battle with cancer. His passing became a turning point, motivating Louise to push forward with even greater determination not only with her studies but also her health, increasing her mobility and gradually moving away from the wheelchair altogether. In 2003 Louise was admitted as a full member and then awarded Fellow status in 2005.
Her career continued to flourish, expanding her expertise through various roles. She also built a family, balancing both personal and professional ambitions, culminating with Louise being awarded her Probate Practitioners certificate in 2019.
After many years in private practice and the commercial legal sector, Louise felt compelled to take a leap of faith. In August 2019, she founded her own law firm—driven by a vision to do things differently, with transparency in pricing and a supportive, client-focused approach.
Then, just months later, the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything. Louise, like so many others, had to navigate a world of uncertainty while ensuring her fledgling business survived. Adapting to the bizarre circumstances of lockdown, she found herself meeting clients in unconventional locations—one standout memory being the signing of a will under an oak tree in the pouring rain. These challenges only reinforced her belief in finding new, flexible approaches to legal practice.
Now, six years on, Louise’s business is thriving. She has built an exceptional team comprising of eight women including a law student. Seven of the team are working mothers and all —except for Louise—work flexible hours to fit around their personal commitments. It’s a reflection of the ethos she has built her firm on; trust, adaptability, and a commitment to doing things differently.
For the young girl who was told she would never amount to anything, Louise has defied all expectations. She has demonstrated that hard work and resilience can take you anywhere, no matter the challenges you face. Her story is one of overcoming obstacles, seizing opportunities, and proving that with determination, anything is possible.