TGT MEETS...JULIE PEGG, ASSOCIATE SOLICITOR AT RAWLINS DAVY - IWD SPECIAL

International Women’s Day 2021 #choosetochallenge

Julie Pegg is an Associate Private Client Solicitor with Rawlins Davy Solicitors and Mediators. They are an expert legal firm with offices in Bournemouth and Poole town centres. Read below as we spoke to Julie to get her thoughts on International Women's Day 2021.

Find out more about Rawlins Davy at their website: www.rawlinsdavy.com

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #choosetochallenge – what would you choose to challenge when it comes to gender equality or inequality this year? This could be in business or life in general. 

This year has posed many challenges for women in business. Working mothers have had to juggle childcare, homeschooling and their careers. If they are not in a supportive workspace, then the inevitable guilt will follow. It has introduced a conflict of priorities and I believe businesses should support their employees’ well being throughout these difficult times with kindness and flexibility.  

Thinking of your own experience in the world of business – which inequalities, if any, have you experienced personally or witnessed around gender? 

2019 marked 100 years since women were allowed to practice law, yet when I entered the legal world 20 years ago, it was still very much an ‘old boys club’. I started my legal career as a receptionist and have worked my way up the ladder, however, it has not been without challenges. I recall one meeting where the client assumed I was the secretary, as I was young and female.

I had great delight in explaining that I was in fact their qualified lawyer and went on to formulate a technical plan that helped save their estate thousands of pounds! I have always been happy to make my clients a cup of tea though, regardless of what my job title has been. 

What do you think women offer in particular to the world of business? 

Without wanting to make sweeping statements, I believe women can offer empathy, motivation by recognising strengths and bringing out the best in people and the ability to multitask.  

What do you think men offer in particular to the world of business? 

I have been fortunate enough to directly work with some fantastic male lawyers and business owners. I respect their drive, kindness, and sense of humour. 

Can you name up to three women in business or in your organisation or in the wider business community that you admire? Why? 

My colleague Amanda Loe, is an incredible family lawyer. She is supportive to her clients, lights up our office with her sense of humour and has shown dedication throughout her legal career. She completed a three-year training contract whilst simultaneously studying for her Post Graduate Diploma in Law and now has many years hands-on experience under her belt. I would use her if I needed legal advice! 

Can you name up to three men in business or in your organisation or in the wider business community that you admire? Why? 

I admire my husband’s work ethic. We went to school together and I was there when he was offered the opportunity for an electrician’s apprenticeship. Over 25 years on and he is now a Director of Zone2 Electrical, overseeing the management of large commercial and residential projects. I admire his generosity with his time more than anything though; he is always helping family, friends and neighbours and has offered free call outs to keyworkers during the lockdowns.  

Do you think women who start their own business experience more challenges than men? Can you explain why you think this? 

I believe women are creative and resourceful, so I am not sure if they face more challenges when starting a business. I know many incredibly driven women who strive to be at the top of their game, they are honest when struggling and get help when needed. By recognising failures, they have learnt how to succeed. 

Describe Poole in 3 words…

Historic, upbeat and progressive 

Where’s your favourite place for an out of office/remote meeting?

There are just so many– as our office is based in the Old Town we are spoilt for choices! I am partial to a cuppa at Riptide Expresso, their coffee is beautiful, and I love their enthusiasm and awesome tracklists! 

What do most love about working in Poole?

The community. I have some fabulous clients who live in and around Poole and although I have only been based in Poole for a few months (most of them spent in lockdown!) I’ve been given a warm welcome by the local business community. I like to promote our Poole neighbours via our Instagram page All Things Law & Local. Also, our office is just steeped in history. It is quirky, as much of the Old Town is, and I treasure the sea glimpses towards Brownsea Island from my office. 

How do you think Poole and local businesses will bounce-back once lockdown is eased?

There are exciting start-up opportunities to be had and I can’t wait to see Kingland up and running to full capacity when lockdown is eased. We are blessed with beauty in Poole and it will be great to see the Quay buzzing again with tourists and locals on hot, sunny days. 

How has Covid-19/Lockdown affected your business and what are your plans for the year ahead as we start to move out of lockdown?

It has been a challenge to keep up with the constant government changes but the demand for legal services has remained high. I’m grateful to work with a progressive firm and Rawlins Davy has been expanding throughout lockdown. As a lawyer who specialises in Wills, I am classed as a keyworker and have worked throughout. 

The courts are still open, the property market has been incredibly busy with the stamp duty break and I personally have had to support grieving clients affected by Covid. I have checked in (via telephone) on my more vulnerable clients who could feel isolated whilst shielding. And will continue to do so until I can see them again in person. We have, however, had to adapt to new ways of working and flexibility has been key. 

Anything else you’d like to say? 

I look forward to the days when we get out and about around Poole and meet the other members of the business community in person, rather than just via Instagram!