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An International Women's day Feature by Billie Spooner, CILEX Advanced Paralegal
I grew up attending a small rural state school where ambition wasn't something people expected from us. Many teachers believed most students would end up working in agricultural or local family businesses and during college, university was pushed as the only route for anyone hoping to 'go far.' I remember being told, more than once, that without university, I'd struggle to succeed.
Despite the pressure, I knew deep down that university wasn't the path for me. I dutifully drafted a UCAS personal statement, which I never submitted, instead I followed my instincts. At 18, I joined an external legal costs form straight out of college. Even then, it felt like luck rather than merit as those early messages about not being 'enough' lingered more than I realised.
Choosing My Own Path Through CILEX
At 19, I decided to take ownership of my future and asked my employer to sponsor my CILEX studies. I've always believed that if you don't ask, you don't get - so I asked. To my surprise, they agreed.
Starting my studies just before COVID brought delays and uncertainty, but also unexpected benefits, including not having to travel two hours to an exam centre. CILEX gave me a structured, respected route into law, without barriers of cost or needed a traditional academic background. It was the opportunity I didn't think someone like me would ever be offered.
Stepping into A Top Law Firm
After two and a half years, an opportunity at Irwin Mitchell appeared. I nearly talked myself out of applying - the imposter in me whispered; "This is a top law firm. What could you possibly bring to a team like that?"
But one day, courage won. I applied, interviewed, and braced myself for rejection. Instead, I received a job offer within hours. I joined in January 2021.
Shortly after, an associate solicitor told me something that I still carry with me today; "You have a bright future ahead of you. You'll be climbing the ladder in no time." At the time, I thought he was just being kind, in hindsight, he saw potential I couldn't yet see in myself.
Progression, Recognition and Finding My Voice
In 2023, I applied for an secured a new technical role within the cost team - another leap, and another moment of self-doubt.
In 2024, I was encouraged to apply for the Women in Cost Rising Star Award 2025. Once again, the familiar narrative of "you're not good enough" crept in, but with support from my now line manager, I applied and was beyond thrilled to be selected. This achievement opened doors I never imagines, As part of the Rising Star Award, I delivered a 30 minute talk at the Women in Costs' annual conference on my chosen topic of imposter syndrome, with more than 130 people in attendance.
In 2025, I was learning to believe in myself a little more, and so again, with encouragement from my line manager I submitted an entry to the 2025 National Paralegal Awards for the Paralegal of the Year - Midlands/North category, and to my amazement I was announced the winner.
Since then, I've spoken on a panel at the Female Lawyers Breakfast Network, delivered talks for Ladies of Law, and contributed at a local CILEX Connect & Grow event. Each experience has helped me to push back the voice of imposter syndrome and step more fully into who I am becoming.
Last year, I successfully completed my academic studies with CILEX and celebrated my graduation in London, which was an unforgettable day. I also took another big leap and secured another promotion to Associate Costs Technical Specialist and Advocate at Irwin Mitchell.
The Power of Mentorship
One of the biggest turning points in my career has been mentorship - both giving and receiving it. Having someone who believes in you, challenges you, and opens your eyes to possibilities you don't know existed is invaluable.
"Mentorship isn't just guidance; it's community, confidence and clarity. In a profession like ours, that is everything."
Looking ahead
My aspirations now are simple but powerful:
- - to continue progressing through the CILEX route to full qualification
- - to keep lifting others as I climb
- - to be the kind of role model I wish I had at 18.
CILEX has not only given me a pathway into law, bit it has also opened doors I once believed were firmly closed. It has given me the chance to study while working, to gain recognition in my field, and to grow a career based on merit, not background. Through CILEX, I've been able to find my voice, grow my confidence, and step into rooms I never imagined I'd have access to.
Most importantly, it has shown me that there is more than one route into this profession and that alternative routes are not lesser routes. They are powerful, accessible and life-changing.
International Women's Day is a reminder that our stories matter, especially those that show that success doesn't always follow a traditional path. Mine certainly hasn't, but it's mine -- shaped by resilience, opportunity and the belief that where you start does not define where you can go. And I'm proud of that.