In our latest edition of Realm Talks To… , we caught up with Laura Clapton, Director and Family Solicitor at Consilia Legal.
In the interview, Laura details why she became a lawyer, the advice she would give her teenage self and what the next 12 months look like for the family team at Consilia Legal.
Why did you decide to become a lawyer?
My mum was a domestic violence support worker and inspired me to go into a career which would enable me to help people going through difficult personal experiences and becoming a family lawyer seemed like the perfect route for me.
What do the next 12 months look like for you and your team?
We’ve been overwhelmed by the growth of the firm over the last 12 months and as a result, we recruited two new family solicitors into the team and a third will be qualifying this year. Over the next 12 months, I want to help my team build their own brand and continue to grow the team organically. We have recently opened an office in London in order to expand our reach in the capital. Watch this space!
What’s the best thing about your job?
In my role as a director and head of the department, the best thing about my job is watching my team develop, making them feel valued and rewarding them.
What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome in your career so far?
I’m not sure I’d call it an obstacle, but my biggest challenge has most definitely been running my own law firm, especially when I decided to throw having a baby into the mix during a global pandemic!
Who do you turn to for advice at work?
We love to collaborate with our whole team and will seek their input on ideas and strategy to help grow the business. But my number one sounding board would have to be my business partner, Marie. We speak pretty much every day.
What do you like to do away from the office?
Time away from work is precious and I like to spend it with my family and friends. You’ll frequently find us at a local park or animal farm. We also love to travel and when we’re not being parents, my husband and I love to watch live music and dine out when we can.
Where’s your favourite place to eat out?
Issho in Leeds. The sushi is just amazing and it’s a fantastic atmosphere.
What’s the last book you read/film you saw and what did you think of it?
The last film I saw was Queen and Slim. The acting was incredible and now I have a bit of a girl crush on Jodie Turner-Smith. I love any film featuring Daniel Kaluuya.
Which three people would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Having just finished Line of Duty, I’d have to say the dream team that is Vicky McClure, Martin Compston and Adrian Dunbar. Although I’d insist they all remained in character.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
Stop doubting yourself and believe you’re as good as the rest of them!
About Laura Clapton
Laura Clapton is the co-founder and director of Consilia Legal.
She is a highly experienced family solicitor and accredited mediator having worked in family law for over 10 years. On top of this Laura is the Chair of Resolution (North and West Yorkshire), ranked in Chambers and Partners as a notable practitioner for her expertise in family law and recognised nationally in The Times Top 200 Law Firms 2020.
Laura has helped Consilia Legal to be listed in the Legal 500 for family law and was named as leading individual as her work as a lawyer and mediator in the local community.
