Jess Mant is a newly qualified technology and commercial solicitor in Womble Bond Dickinson‘s digital team with a keen interest in emerging technology.
Jess took a traditional route into law, starting with A-levels, onto a Law Degree LLB, and then the Legal Practice Course (LPC). Initially, she didn’t have a clear direction or specific interest in which area of law, but always knew law was for her. During her various training seats, she discovered a preference for more prescriptive subjects over those heavily based on case law. This realisation guided her towards a legal career with clear boundaries and structure.
During her training contract, Jess explored a broad range of seats, including property dispute resolution, commercial law, wills, trusts and estates, and commercial property. This diverse experience allowed her to identify the areas she enjoyed most and the skills she excelled at. It was during her third seat in commercial law that Jess found her passion for technology law. Working closely with a senior partner specialising in tech work, she was drawn to the additional complexity and the need to understand the technology and its practical implications.
Jess’s involvement with a networking group focused on Women in Technology and Cyber CIC (WiTCH) further fuelled her interest. Through these events, she gained a deeper understanding of the tech and cyber sectors, beyond just the contracts she was reviewing. This exposure opened her eyes to the broader world of tech and cyber law, solidifying her desire to specialise in this field.
Here, Jess shares her top tips for women looking to embark on a career in law and technology:
Join a networking group or forum:
Whether it’s a social group such as WiTCH, a forum, or even LinkedIn, widening your network and engaging in conversations about hot topics and debates can be incredibly beneficial. These interactions provide insights and knowledge that you might not come across while sitting behind a desk.
Stay informed:
Keep up with the latest news and developments in technology and AI. Find student subscriptions or free trials for news outlets that focus on these areas. LinkedIn is also a valuable resource for finding good expert written articles and staying updated on current discussions.
Gain diverse experience:
Doing a wide variety of seats during your training is crucial. The transferable skills you gain from different areas will help you think more broadly. For example, Jess’s experience in private client work helped her develop strong people skills, which are valuable in any legal context.
Be vocal and visible:
Use social media to show your interest in technology law. This not only demonstrates your passion to current and future employers but also helps you build a network of supporters and potential mentors.
Confidence is key:
Jess advises you need to ‘fake it ’til you make it’ when it comes to confidence, as it often comes with time.
Seek mentorship:
At the beginning of your journey, having a mentor can be incredibly helpful. Jess benefited from following a more senior colleague, learning from their conversations and navigating events with their guidance.
