September 2016 | Kate Austin Partner, Litigation and Dispute Resolution at Allens
I became a lawyer because …
It was something that I wanted to do since I was 12 years old. Law is in my family but more than that, I was drawn to the combination of critical thinking, analysis, mastery of argument and language that the practice of law (particularly litigation) requires.
I am really proud of …
Working at a firm like Allens. Every day I work with partners, lawyers, counsel and clients who are the best at what they do and this constantly challenges and inspires me. I am also proud of Allens' ongoing commitment to pro-bono work and social justice issues. As lawyers, it is important that we take a stand on the things that matter.
You can have it all …
But what that means is different for everyone. As lawyers we often think we need to perfect at everything all the time. Over the years, I have learnt that this is simply not possible. All you can do is identify what really matters to you and do your best at that every day.
I am extremely grateful for …
My partner and family who have been a constant support throughout my career. I couldn't have achieved the things I have without them.
A key mentor who influenced my career is …
Belinda Thompson, Partner at Allens. Belinda has been an excellent mentor in so many ways. First, her approach to being a lawyer – her high standards of technical excellence and commerciality, coupled with her investment in, and care of, the lawyers she works with is something I aspire to. Second, as a woman, she showed me it is possible to be a very successful commercial litigator whilst balancing family commitments. Finally, and most of all, she taught me to believe in myself, despite my doubts. Her constant support and guidance is something I am very grateful for.
If I wasn’t a lawyer …
I would be a historian. I have a passion for Tudor History and am a voracious reader of anything to do with Henry VIII, his Queens and the reformation. The combination of the personal, the political and the religious is endlessly fascinating.
Before I started at Allens …
I was at University studying, juggling part time jobs and dabbling in musical theatre and dance.
The best advice I ever received was ...
No one will believe in you if you don't believe in yourself.
One of the key legal initiatives I am involved in …
Allens' work on innovative legal technologies – there is so much happening in this space and it has the potential to significantly change the way we work and provide services to our clients.
Outside of the law …
I love to travel, shop, eat, read and spend time with my partner and family.
