Name: Hannah Crawford
Organisation: Kirkland & Ellis
Role: Partner
Location: London
Trained at: Sidley Austin
Year qualified: 2015
What’s your most vivid memory from being a trainee?
The feeling of starting from a position of no knowledge of a topic to working the answers and solutions out through analysis and discussion – a skill that set me up for a life in restructuring where no two situations are the same and we are learning all the time.
What is the thing in your professional career that has terrified you or taken you out of your comfort zone the most?
Standing before a tribunal and advocating on behalf of pro bono clients whose social welfare benefits have been cut or taken away completely. Among the most meaningful, terrifying and rewarding experiences of my career.
What is the wisest thing anyone ever said to you (and who said it)?
Focus on your own path, trust your instincts, and don’t be distracted by negative people (my dad!).
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get to where you are/do the job you do?
My two pieces of advice are:
- Embrace hurdles and setbacks – they are an essential part of the journey and you will be a better, stronger lawyer and person for them.
- Long-term perseverance and determination while keeping perspective are critical to achieving your goal.
What’s your best friend from law school doing now?
Working at the National Theatre – my friends are much cooler than me.
