Jemma Dally, a partner at Goodman Ray, acted for five of the eight parents whose legal parental status to children conceived by sperm donors had to be declared by Sir James Munby, president of the Family Division of the High Court after “incompetence” with required consent forms by fertility clinics.
What were the main challenges in this case?It cannot be right to deprive any parent of being a legal parent just because a form had been lost or not signed properly, when there were two parents seeking treatment together, knowing the implications and wanting to be equal. Because of the stricture of the law, the challenge was finding a legal route to get to that answer.
What was your worst day as a lawyer? Leaving court, having acted for birth parents whose child was ultimately adopted in tragic and highly unusual circumstances, with an overwhelming feeling that the decision was the wrong one for the child. When I think about how much has changed in the past ten years, I wonder whether the same decision would be made today.
What was your most memorable experience as a lawyer? Bringing cases, like this one, that you know will have a significant life-long effect on many, not just those directly involved.
Who has been the most influential person in your life? I am surrounded by strong and intelligent women who have mentored me throughout. I was trained by Peggy Ray, one of the most inspirational family lawyers around, who showed me the importance of looking at each case laterally. Deirdre Fottrell, QC, has always been there to bounce ideas off. Developing my ideas with the best legal mind I know gave me confidence in my judgment. My partner and two sons inspire me every day in every way.
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Why did you become a lawyer? A desire to make a difference coupled with a need to be intellectually stimulated, push boundaries and find practical solutions for people.
What would your career advice be?It is much easier to put in the hard work and the hours if you believe in what you are doing and why you are doing it.
If you had not become a lawyer, what would you have chosen and why? A buffalo farmer — cheese and Mulberry leather handbags!
Where do you see yourself in ten years? These are challenging times to be a family lawyer, who knows? If not in the law, then on my buffalo farm.