Empowering Women in Law: an inspiring conversation with Caroline McNally

Reflecting on an impactful journey in family law, emphasizing the vital role of mentorship in empowering the next generation of female lawyers

In celebration of women’s empowerment, we sat down with Caroline McNally, a British national who grew up in Hong Kong, Caroline has extensive experience working in both London and Hong Kong. With a few decades experience in family law under her belt, she has made significant contributions to the legal community and serves as an inspiration for aspiring female lawyers.

Caroline McNally’s insights reflect the ongoing journey toward gender equality in the legal profession. Her commitment to empowering women and advocating for their rights serves as an inspiration for many. As we celebrate women like Caroline, we are reminded of the importance of supporting each other in our pursuit of justice and equality.

Caroline has been recognised as a leading family lawyer in Hong Kong, holding the position of Chair of the Hong Kong Family Law Association from 2016 to 2018 and now sitting on the management committee of the Asia Pacific Chapter of the International Academy of Family Lawyers. She has also been awarded the prestigious title of Top 100 Women in Litigation in Asia Pacific by Benchmark Litigation for her work in the Family and Matrimonial category. Her firm, Hugill & Ip, has received numerous accolades, including rankings in Chambers and Partners and Legal 500, highlighting her expertise and contributions to the field.

Q1. What inspired you to pursue a career in family law?

My journey into family law was quite organic. I was offered a training contract in London at a firm called Manches which was one of the top ranked firms for family law. My first seat was working for a doyen of family law and my interest was piqued by the fascinating cases that I was able to work on. I have always been interested in psychology and the practice of family law combines legal discipline with understanding the psychological issues underlying a dispute. Family law, in particular, allows me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to help clients find resolution during some of their most challenging times.

Q2. As a British woman who grew up in Hong Kong, how has your background influenced your approach to law?

My multicultural background has profoundly shaped my understanding of family law. Growing up in Hong Kong exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives, which is invaluable in my practice. Family law is not just about the legal aspects; it’s also about understanding the emotional and cultural contexts in which families operate. This understanding allows me to approach cases with empathy and sensitivity, which is crucial in family disputes. Additionally, families tend to be far more international these days and working in both London and Hong Kong has given me a broader perspective on how family law is practiced in different jurisdictions and has allowed me to foster professional contacts internationally which can be called upon when needed.

Q3. What challenges have you faced as a woman in the legal profession, particularly in Hong Kong?

Family law is an area of law which has traditionally been a female-dominated field and I am fortunate not to have experienced gender inequality in my professional life. On the other hand, I have faced challenges in terms of the expectations in a high-pressured environment. In my early days as a junior lawyer the expectation was to stoically handle the pressures in terms of long working hours and the emotional nature of the work. This has changed over the years, and I try to advocate for well-being at work. Lawyers are not robots, and the work impacts us physically and emotionally. To achieve a sustainable family law practice, these issues need to be discussed openly and empathetically. Further, as a more introverted person, I have sometimes found it challenging to advocate for myself in a noisy world. Quieter voices can get drowned out and I often need to remind myself to speak up and lean-in.

Q4. How do you think the legal profession in Hong Kong can better support female lawyers?

There are several ways the legal profession can improve support for female lawyers.

First, law firms should implement robust mentorship programmes that connect young female lawyers with experienced mentors who can guide them.

Second, firms should consider flexible work arrangements especially for those with family obligations.

Third, those in senior management roles should critically assess and address gender-gaps in compensation.

Lastly, firms need to actively promote women into leadership roles and create a culture that values diversity and inclusion at all levels. It’s not just about hiring women; it’s about ensuring they have equal opportunities to advance their careers.

Q5. What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the legal field?

My primary advice is to believe in yourself and your abilities. The legal profession can be intimidating, but your unique perspective as a woman is invaluable. Seek out mentors and allies who can provide guidance and support. Don’t shy away from taking on challenging cases or roles; these experiences will build your confidence. Lastly, remember that resilience is key. There will be setbacks, but what matters is how you respond to them.

Q6. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal life?

Balancing work and personal life is an ongoing challenge but essential to sustaining a career in law. The statistics show high rates of burnout which must be taken seriously. I prioritise my time and set boundaries. For instance, I make it a point to disconnect from work during my personal time. I enjoy spending time with friends and in nature, hiking with my dog. Having hobbies away from work is an important way to re-charge. Having a supportive network, both at home and work, is crucial. Flexibility in my work schedule allows me to manage my responsibilities, and I advocate for others to do the same.

Q7. What initiatives are you involved in to promote women’s empowerment in the legal community?

I am actively involved in mentorship programmes for young female lawyers, where I aim to provide guidance and support. Additionally, I participate in initiatives that focus on raising awareness about women’s rights, particularly in family law. I collaborate with organisations that assist victims of domestic violence, offering legal assistance and resources to those in need. It’s essential to give back to the community and empower other women to succeed.

Q8. How has working in both London and Hong Kong shaped your legal practice?

Working in both jurisdictions has enriched my practice in many ways. Each city has its own legal culture, and understanding these nuances has allowed me to offer more comprehensive advice to my clients. In London, I learned about different approaches to family law, including mediation and collaborative practices, which I have integrated into my work here in Hong Kong. This cross-jurisdictional experience has also helped me develop a more global perspective on family issues, which is incredibly beneficial in our increasingly interconnected world.

Q9. What is your vision for the future of women in the legal profession, particularly in Hong Kong?

My vision is for a legal profession where women are equally represented at all levels, particularly in leadership roles. I hope to see a culture that not only supports but champions women in law, creating an environment where they can thrive and lead. It’s crucial for future generations to see women in prominent positions, as this representation is vital for inspiring the next wave of female lawyers. Together, we can push for systemic changes that ensure equality and empower women in every aspect of the legal profession.