Brief Encounter: Lady Justice Carr
Lady Justice (Sue) Carr was appointed to Court of Appeal in 2019, and sworn in virtually in April 2020. A commercial law specialist – particularly negligence and personal liability – she took silk in 2003. A stellar career at the Bar, which included being appointed Head of Chambers at 4 New Square, was followed by appointment to the High Court Bench in 2013.
Tell us a bit about your daily professional life
In early; clear the inbox; prepare for court; if time, find someone for a quick chat/gossip; try and have a walk at some stage during the day; do not work after 7pm if at all possible.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Think before you act.
What motivates you?
Doing the best that I can.
What is the one piece of advice you would give a young or aspiring barrister?
Be realistic but determined.
What did you read at university? If you didn’t read Law, why not and has that made a difference?
Modern Languages Part 1 and Law Part 2. The perfect combination – a year with my head in wonderful language and literature and 2 years to get some solid law under my belt.
What three skills are essential to succeed in the Law?
Discipline, stamina and instinctive good judgment.
Most memorable legal moment?
Cross-examining a claimant for two days before Goldring J (as he then was), knowing that I had a totally killer point up my sleeve which I was saving for the very end. Holding it back was torture; deploying it was a moment I will never forget.
It went well.
Best courtroom etiquette tip
If you have long hair, tie it up.
Which mentor/ figure(s) or events have inspired you, supported you, or changed your approach?
The sadly late Lord Toulson, who gave my red bag. He had a brilliant mind, great charisma and charm, and a wonderful turn of phrase.
[A red bag, in which wigs, robes, and papers can be carried, is given to a junior barrister by a QC, rewarding outstanding advocacy]
What personal interests or pursuits outside your career have enhanced your legal career?
The theatre: it’s an insight into other lives and perspectives.
What have you learned / realised / taken up / done differently during coronavirus?
I’ve been able to sit down for breakfast with a newspaper.
How do you relax?
Listening to the Elisabeth Day podcast: how to fail
https://www.elizabethdayonline.co.uk/podcast
