Lady Justice Brenda Hale

Perhaps appropriately for a lawyer this was interesting but a bit dry. She's done a lot of good work, especially in the area of family law, and is happy to call herself a feminist, though of a more conservative stripe than some. Her placid descriptions of some of the more ludicrous costumes and rituals show just how hidebound and old-fashioned the judicial system can be, and how narrow-minded many of the men still are! It's worth a read to give a flavour of how women can work within legal institutions, just don't expect zippy prose and racy anecdotes, (unless you find detailed descriptions of the carpeting of the new Supreme Court offices to be racy).… (meer)

On 24 September 2019 Lady Hale became a household name when, as President of the Supreme Court, she delivered the judgement that the recent proroguement of parliament had been unlawful.

Part autobiography, part potted history of the British legal system, punctuated with some brief accounts of interesting legal cases. Usually a fast reader I took my time with this, enjoying the legal detail, her account of her career, forging pathways for more women in the higher judicial roles, and the documenting of advancements within the legal system for under-represented people including cases particularly involving women, children, gender equality, rights for unmarried couples, rights for gay couples. Some other reviews have described her memoir as dusty in parts but I particularly enjoyed the reviews of historic cases. And every little triumph over institutional sexism had me rejoicing with Lady Hale.

Not every case Lady Hale mentions was a victory in the march of progress and equality but all are interesting and her quiet strength as an advocate for women within the legal system is evident. Women in law and politics are still vastly under-represented and I hope this memoir inspires more young women and non-binary people, from all walks of life, not just the traditional routes to law or politics, to join the ranks.

Recommended for everyone - if you have an interest in law, politics, history - and particularly recommended for aspiring young lawyers.… (meer)