International Women’s Day is global day celebrated on Saturday 8th March 2025. It’s an important day for No5 Barristers Chambers to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women, as well as to raise awareness about gender equality and women’s rights.
This year the International Women’s Day theme is ‘Accelerate Action’ aiming to speed up Gender Equality. At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.
Over the coming days, No5 will be spotlighting some of our female barristers who are demonstrating this year’s incentive starting with our Head of Chambers, Michelle Heeley KC.
Winner of Barrister of the Year (10+ Year of Call) at this year’s Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards. Michelle, former leader of the Midland Circuit, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and teamwork throughout challenging time for the Bar. She raised public awareness of issues such as the covid-19 impact and backlog created through media interviews and collaborative efforts with professionals. Michelle has handled high-profile cases, including murder and terrorism trials, showcasing her expertise with vulnerable witnesses. Passionate about her community, she has contributed to Birmingham’s legal and charitable sectors, including creating the Midland Circuit scholarship and mentoring aspiring lawyers. She has promoted diversity within the profession and actively supported initiatives to make the legal field more accessible to underrepresented groups. Michelle is the first female Head of No5 Barristers’ Chambers and seeks to inspire others in the profession.
