First Hundred Years: Laura Noble

The year 2019 marks the centenary of the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919, which paved the way for women to become lawyers. The First Hundred Years project is commemorating the event to shape the future of women in law.

To celebrate the contribution of female lawyers, Coodes is putting the spotlight on some of its own team members. Conveyancer Laura Noble, reflects on her career to date.

1.When and why did you decide to become a lawyer?

I decided to become a lawyer as TV programmes and films always made it look so exciting! It came across as very glamorous and fast paced.

2.What drives you in your role?

I am driven by the desire to get the outcomes my clients want and to make the process as painless and stress-free as possible for them. After all, moving house is one of the top five most stressful things to do.

3.What or who has inspired you in your career?

I was inspired by a local solicitor, Kathryn Major, who I shadowed on work experience when I was 14. She was so well respected and had an amazing reputation that she left Cornwall to be a full time District Judge in London.

My boss Sarah Cowley also inspires me. She is a fountain of knowledge and is the main driving force behind our team doing so well. Her professional experience and personal skills with staff and clients is fabulous. I couldn’t ask for a better mentor/ boss/ department head (don’t tell her I said that).

4.What do you like about working for Coodes?

I love the people, ethos and diversity of working for Coodes. Friendly, supportive colleagues with an approachable nature and a drive to move forward make the job that much better.

5.What is your proudest moment (personal or professional)?

My proudest moment was passing my final exams and qualifying as a Licensed Conveyancer in 2016. I was working full time, planning a wedding and looking after a sick husband (to be) whilst studying in whatever spare time I had.

6.What changes have you seen during your career that have affected female lawyers?

More women are becoming Partners and Associates now and the range of qualifications that are acknowledged and accepted is bigger so you no longer have to be a solicitor.

7.What advice would you give to a young woman considering a legal career?

Go for it! Don’t let anyone stand in the way. I was told I wasn’t bright enough to go to University and I would never work in the law. A degree and a postgraduate degree later, here I am.

Laura Noble is a licensed conveyancer, specialising in HMOs and leasehold properties. She is Head of Buy to Let in the Residential Property team at Coodes Solicitors.