Angela Jackman, a partner in the London office of Maxwell Gillott, acted for Pupil G. In a test case, the High Court found that the uniform policy of a North London school, which stopped him attending school with cornrows, was unlawful because it could result in unjustified indirect race discrimination for someone holding his views. G now attends a different school.
What were the main challenges in this case and possible implications?
Obtaining the best authoritative expert evidence to establish that, for some African-Caribbean boys of secondary school age, wearing cornrows is both conventional and traditional.
Remaining completely objective was particularly challenging as a lawyer of African-Caribbean heritage because I felt the answer was obvious; but the issues of hair and culture had to be dealt with in a wholly legalistic context.
On a personal level, I also empathised with the lasting emotional impact of G being refused entry on his first day at secondary school.
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This case not only affects the school in question but other schools with the same policy.
It also confirms that the Equality Act 2010 protects non-religious cultural practices associated with race and ethnicity. For some members of the African-Caribbean community, it also has symbolic significance because it touches on historically emotive issues.
What was your worst day as a lawyer?
This has to be when I was an articled clerk at court with counsel on an interim custody hearing. Unfortunately, counsel was double-booked and had to leave before the delayed hearing started — leaving me with an outline of submissions to make to a rather fearsome judge. Needless to say I was completely petrified.
What was your most memorable experience as a lawyer?
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Winning my first education judicial review in 1994 for a pupil who felt that she had been written off by her school.
The girl subsequently attended a different school and obtained qualifications.
Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
Individuals in the collective with whom I worked at Hackney Community Law Centre for 12 years. The skills I learnt from colleagues have stood me in good stead.
Why did you become a lawyer?
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I enjoyed public speaking at secondary school and probably secretly fancied myself as a barrister after watching too many legal dramas.
What would your advice be to anyone wanting a career in law?
Be aware of the academic challenges and financial commitment. At a time when obtaining training contracts and pupillages is increasingly difficult, gaining as much relevant extracurricular experience as possible should improve your prospects.
If you had not become a lawyer, what would you have chosen and why?
I am a seasoned African dancer and would have savoured doing it full-time.
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Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Still defending civil liberties for individuals alongside like-minded, passionate colleagues.