Emily Cannell - Partner, Mincoffs Solicitors
What were your career ambitions growing up?
I recall when I was younger I went through stages of wanting to own my own nursery or be a child psychologist as I’ve always had an interest in working with families and helping people. I ended up deciding on a law degree quite early on and was fortunate enough to spend time on my training contract with a wonderful solicitor who inspired me to continue down the family law path.
Tell us about your current role and what do you most enjoy?
I’m a partner at Mincoffs Solicitors and also head of the family department, where I deal with all aspects of family law related matters. While the firm is based in Jesmond, we represent clients across the country and are fortunate to work on a wide range of cases. The thing I enjoy most about my job is how rewarding it is, working with clients and trying to find a solution to what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives.
What is your proudest business achievement?
It might sound cliché but my proudest business achievement is being promoted to partner and head of the family department. I joined Mincoffs as a solicitor just over 10 years ago so I’ve been on quite the journey with the firm.
How has your industry evolved in the last decade and what changes do you see in the next decade?
We’ve seen huge technological advancements over the last decade changing the way we work, some which have helped and some which have been potentially hindering. I can only see this continuing in the future and I think we all have to be aware of the new tech coming forward and prepare ourselves for AI becoming more and more integrated into our way of life. In the next 10 years I also think there will be more emphasis on encouraging mediation and collaborative, out of court settlements – something I would absolutely welcome and encourage.
What are you currently working on?
While I can’t mention specific cases due to the confidential nature of this work, I’m grateful to always be working on a wide range of cases. These vary from straightforward matters to the more complex and can include everything from drafting prenuptial agreements to contested court proceedings – relating to finances for a separating couple and child arrangements for parents.
As a partner, I am also involved in lots of day to day discussions about progress at the firm, from offering my view on our brand design to heading the social committee and organising our Christmas party and summer events.
What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?
The best advice I’ve been given is probably to think hard about what is it you want people to remember you for and treating others how you would like to be treated. Professionally, I think this is especially important in family law because this may be the first time some of our clients have ever engaged with a solicitor and it’s imperative that our clients trust us and believe that we will do all we can to work towards the best possible outcome for them. It’s also an important message to have in mind amongst colleagues and peers and also outside of work too.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
I definitely see my future at Mincoffs Solicitors. It’s a really exciting time to be at the firm, with some fantastic growth and development plans underway which I am incredibly proud to be a part of. On a personal note, in 10 years’ time I’ll have a 16 year old which is a little bit terrifying to think about!
Who would be your four ideal dinner guests, alive or dead?
Princess Diana, Paul O’Grady, Julie Walters, and Ant and Dec (slightly cheating, but they come as a pair).
How do you unwind outside of work?
I don’t think I do – home life and work is very hectic but I like to be busy so it suits me well. At the weekends I deal with gymnastics, swimming lessons and an ongoing stream of party invitations – managing my daughter’s social life is nearly a full time job in itself. I love spending time with family and friends, being on holiday or planning my next one.
Favourite book and boxset?
I very rarely watch TV so I’m hopeless at committing to a boxset but I do love to read when time permits. Recent reads I’ve enjoyed have been Where the Crawdads Sing and Shuggie Bain. I really enjoy a harrowing tale that you learn something from in the end.
www.mincoffs.co.uk