Why is she in the news? The firm represented the University of Sussex in a judicial review, successfully appealing a record £585,000 fine by the Office for Students for breaching free speech regulations.
Thoughts on the case: ‘This judgment is significant for the higher-education sector and for public decision-making more generally. The ruling underlines the importance of regulators exercising their functions carefully and within the legal framework that governs them. Here, the Office for Students was found not to have acted in accordance with its powers, making the judgment an important reference point for how regulatory powers are applied.
‘For universities, the decision offers clarity at a time of heightened scrutiny. It confirms that regulatory engagement, even where issues attract strong public interest such as freedom of speech, must be fair, transparent and approached with an open mind. The ruling is also likely to influence how the Office for Students engages with the sector, particularly as its role continues to develop.
‘More broadly, the case reinforces long-established principles of public law. Effective regulation depends on sound decision-making, proper process and respect for legal boundaries. Those principles are in everyone’s interests, supporting both confidence in regulators and constructive relationships with the organisations they oversee.’
Josh Fleming, interim chief executive of the Office for Students, said: ‘We are disappointed by this ruling. We will carefully consider the consequences before deciding on the next steps.’
Dealing with the media: ‘Engaging with the media on this case highlighted the skill involved in communicating complex legal outcomes clearly and accurately. What stood out most was the need for precision. Public law cases often turn on fine distinctions.’
Why become a lawyer? ‘Law appealed as a discipline that combines intellectual challenge with practical problem solving in a commercial context. My earlier STEM background shaped the way I think about complexity, which informs how I support clients in managing risk and meeting objectives in regulatory and contentious matters.’
Career high: ‘Some of my most rewarding moments are not necessarily the most visible ones, but quieter achievements where advice has genuinely helped an organisation navigate a difficult issue and move forward with confidence.’
Career low: ‘Qualifying during an economic downturn was difficult.’
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