My legal life: Camella Cephas, WSP Solicitors

My interest in law began after watching a documentary on the Stephen Lawrence murder inquiry. I was deeply moved by the injustice his family faced and how the legal system failed to protect them when it mattered most. It opened my eyes to the power of the law. 

That experience initially drew me to criminal law. I became passionate about the idea of fighting for justice and making sure it is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all. My interest then grew into a broader commitment to making the legal system accessible and fair. I believe everyone deserves equal treatment under the law, regardless of their background, and I want to be part of the effort to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.

During my training contract I completed a seat in the family law department – and it shifted my perspective. I found a real passion for working in children law, particularly in supporting and protecting vulnerable individuals during emotionally complex and often traumatic situations.

One of the highs of working in family law is the meaningful impact we can have on people’s lives. Helping to secure a safe and stable environment for a child or guiding a client through an incredibly difficult time with compassion and clarity is immensely rewarding. It is a role that requires both legal skill and emotional sensitivity. When the outcome is positive, it reinforces the importance of what we do. That said, there are definitely challenges. The work can be emotionally draining, especially when dealing with cases involving abuse, neglect, or high-conflict family dynamics. It also requires maintaining a careful balance between professional detachment and empathy. Managing clients’ expectations and emotions, while navigating the demands of the legal process, can be difficult. But ultimately, those challenges are part of what makes the work so important and fulfilling.

When I became a board director and head of children and care law at WSP Solicitors in 2022, my passion for leadership and firm management really began to evolve. These roles marked the start of my formal leadership responsibilities and gave me the opportunity of leading a department, making strategic decisions, and supporting colleagues through both challenges and successes.

'Mentoring has the power to open doors, challenge inequality, and help create a legal profession that is more diverse and inclusive'

I discovered that I genuinely enjoy helping others grow and develop. Since then, I have undertaken leadership and management courses, which have further strengthened my interest and equipped me with practical tools and insights. These experiences gave me a clearer understanding of how effective leadership can directly impact both the culture and performance of a firm. 

As someone from a Caribbean background, I understand first-hand the barriers that individuals from underrepresented communities can face when entering and progressing in the legal profession. That is what motivated me to become a mentor for the Society of Caribbean Lawyers. I wanted to give back to my community and support aspiring lawyers who might not have access to the same networks or guidance that others may have. 

Mentoring has played an important role in my journey. Having people who believed in me, offered advice, and shared experiences made a real difference in helping me build confidence and navigate the profession. I see mentoring not only as a way to pass that support on, but also as a chance to continue learning myself. It is incredibly rewarding to watch mentees grow in confidence, secure opportunities and begin to shape their own careers. I truly believe that mentoring has the power to open doors, challenge inequality, and help create a legal profession that is more diverse, inclusive and representative of the society it serves.

What motivated me to become managing director is the opportunity to contribute to the wider direction and future of WSP Solicitors. As MD, I want to help shape a firm that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and continues to attract and retain professionals, deliver exceptional client service, and evolve in a way that reflects our values and long-term goals.

I begin my role as managing director on 1 July. I am excited to continue building on the strong foundation that has already been created at WSP. Being born and raised in Gloucestershire and attending a local school, it will be a real privilege to lead a well-established Gloucestershire firm. We have some amazing people at WSP, and I am most excited about fostering a culture of collaboration and trust across all levels of the business.