Building Bridges: Partner Paul Leamy on Social Mobility in Commercial Law
For many aspiring lawyers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, the path to a career in commercial law can seem insurmountable. Financial hurdles, unfamiliar social landscapes, and demanding application processes create significant barriers. Paul Leamy, chair of the social mobility network at Taylor Wessing and a real estate partner, knows these challenges first-hand. With origins from a North London council estate, becoming a partner in a global law firm is a testament to his sheer perseverance. Now, he is committed to dismantling these barriers, building bridges for future generations. Leamy has recently been shortlisted as a finalist in the "Champion of the Year" category for the forthcoming UK Social Mobility Awards.
Leamy's experiences fuelled his passion for a more inclusive legal profession. He champions initiatives like solicitor apprenticeships, which provide valuable work experience and mentorship combined with study towards a law degree and qualification. Offering an alternative to the traditional and often costly University route, apprenticeships alleviate the financial burden of higher education and allow individuals to gain practical experience early on in their careers. This hands-on approach equips aspiring lawyers with the skills they need to succeed while diversifying the talent pool within law firms.
Beyond access, Leamy emphasises the importance of fostering a sense of belonging. Mentorship and support networks can guide young people through the intricacies of a legal career, equipping them with the confidence to navigate complex legal concepts and unfamiliar office cultures. These networks can be a lifeline, offering guidance on everything from interview etiquette to appropriate business attire - challenges many first-generation students may not have encountered before.
Leamy encourages the use of LinkedIn as a tool for aspiring lawyers to connect with professionals in their desired fields. By building these connections, they can gain insights and advice, enhancing their social capital and industry understanding. LinkedIn allows students to network with potential mentors, discover job opportunities, and stay informed about industry trends, all of which are crucial for career development.
Leamy has recently joined a legal sector working group established by KPMG that focuses on sharing best practice to address social mobility in law firms. The working group is supported by leading researchers Bridge Group whose data-driven approach examines recruitment, progression, and pay gaps to identify areas needing improvement. The Bridge Group’s research provides actionable insights that can drive policy changes and foster a more inclusive environment within the legal sector. By identifying disparities and recommending targeted interventions, they aim to create a level playing field for all aspiring lawyers.
Taylor Wessing’s "Amplify" programme, which Leamy supports, and which has been shortlisted as a finalist in the "Progression Programme of the Year" category for the forthcoming UK Social Mobility Awards, exemplifies these efforts. Through workshops, group coaching sessions, and networking events, Amplify provides participants with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive industry. Additionally, it fosters a sense of community among participants, helping them build lasting professional relationships. “In Amplify, we focus on providing career advancement support to under-represented communities within the legal sector, enabling our people to develop the growth mindset and strategic career roadmap to succeed,” explains Leamy. “It's about creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.”
Leamy also serves as a trustee for Joe’s Buddy Line, a charity focusing on mental health support for students. Leamy took on the role as he recognises the link between social mobility and mental health and the need to ensure students receive the necessary wellbeing support in addition to careers support to thrive. Joe’s Buddy Line provides resources to schools and universities, empowering them to address mental health challenges and reduce stigma. By offering mental health support, one of the objectives is to help students cope with the pressures of academic life, which can be particularly challenging for those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Social mobility isn't just about fairness; it's about enriching the legal profession. Diverse perspectives fuel creativity and innovation, benefiting both firms and their clients. Lawyers from varied backgrounds bring unique insights and approaches to legal challenges, enhancing client service and legal strategy. Leamy strongly believes that this cognitive diversity is imperative to the success of the business of law.
Discriminatory practices not only limit access to talent but also fail to capitalise on the value that diversity brings to legal strategy and client service. By promoting social mobility, law firms can attract and retain top talent from a wide range of backgrounds, enhancing their competitiveness and reputation. Embracing diversity leads to a more dynamic and innovative workforce, which is essential in a rapidly changing global market.
Paul Leamy's story is more than a personal triumph; it's a beacon of hope for aspiring lawyers from all backgrounds. His dedication to social mobility is transforming Taylor Wessing and the broader legal industry. Through initiatives like solicitor apprenticeships, mentorship programmes, and advocacy, Leamy is paving the way for a future where success in law is determined by merit, not background.
Leamy's efforts are not limited to his firm. He actively engages with the broader legal community, advocating for policies and practices that promote social mobility. By sharing his story and insights, he raises awareness about the challenges faced by socially mobile students and the importance of creating inclusive opportunities.
The positive impact of his work serves as an inspiration for aspiring lawyers, demonstrating that a career in law is within reach for everyone, regardless of their starting point. The initiatives that Leamy supports, such as the "Amplify" program, are dismantling barriers and supporting junior lawyers from diverse backgrounds through coaching and mentorship. By providing these resources, Leamy helps close the gap that existed when he started and still exists today.
In doing so, he is paving the way for a future where the legal profession is truly representative of the society it serves. His work ensures that talented individuals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and contribute to the legal field. Through research, advocacy, and direct support, Paul Leamy is building bridges for socially mobile students and future lawyers. His story and ongoing efforts highlight the transformative power of opportunity and the critical importance of diversity in the legal profession. As the legal industry continues to evolve, Leamy’s work stands as a testament to the value of inclusion and the promise of a more equitable future.
By Mathew Stephenson
