Can One Case Change the Course of Your Career? With Nikki Alderson

In this episode, Orlagh sits down with Nikki Alderson, a former barrister turned specialist coach for female lawyers.

Called to the Bar in 1996, Nikki quickly gravitated toward criminal law, driven by her passion for human interest stories and advocating for the underdog. Her career at the Bar saw her specialise in RASSO (Rape and Serious Sexual Offences) cases at Broadway House Chambers.

Ten years into her career, she volunteered with the Bar Human Rights Committee on a pivotal project in Jamaica, where she helped overturn wrongful convictions of two men on Death Row. This experience profoundly shaped her personal and professional life.

Upon returning to her practice in Bradford, Nikki had a moment of deep self-reflection after experiencing such an intense case. Was this truly the path she wanted to follow?

Seeking clarity, she turned to coaching, rediscovered her passion, and continued at the Bar for another eight years. Today, Nikki has transitioned out of the legal profession and into coaching, where she empowers female lawyers through tailored support, motivational speaking, and training. She now helps clients applying for silk, judiciary positions, or expanding their practices, inspiring others to find their own ‘mojo.’

Her book, ‘Raising the Bar: Empowering Female Lawyers Through Coaching’ aims to support women in law to navigate their own paths to success, by introducing the benefits of coaching through the sharing of ideas and exercises which readers can test out for themselves.