Women at the Bar
Interview with
Elaine Banton Charity Mafuba talks to Elaine Banton, about her Career as a Barrister and the DEI Initiatives that she is involved in. Charity: Elaine, can you please briefly tell us about yourself? Elaine: I am a Barrister practising in Employment Equality, Discrimination and Human Rights. I am also engaged regarding equality and progression within the profession, and this interest drew me to become involved with the Bar Council’s Equality Diversity and Social Mobility (EDSM) Committee some years ago. Charity: What drew you to a career at the Bar? Elaine: I grew up on a council estate in Hackney and formulated my ambition when I was 7 years old to become a Barrister. I believe that growing up amongst that harsh reality, the social injustice, (school in special measures etc.) sparked an interest in the law, which I held onto. I saw real evidence on a daily basis, of structural inequality, and I was compelled to stand up for myself and for others at school and within the wider community. I learned many qualities then, that I have fully utilised at the Bar. Charity: You are experienced in the practice of the following areas of Law; Employment, Equality, Discrimination and Human Rights. Generally-what are some of the cases have you been involved in? 12 | LegalWomen
Elaine: When I was called to the Bar in 1996 I didn’t intend to practise in Employment Law, but during my pupillage, I was immersed in what was at the time the longest running Employment Tribunal case, which piqued my interest in Employment Law. I greatly enjoyed the intersection with Human Rights and Equality Law; two areas of law that I had always been intrigued by. My practise encompasses the whole range of Employment Law but generally focused on Discrimination Law. I represent both Employees and Employers, but I am often known for Employees challenging large organisations, with complex litigation spanning years. I also practise the broad spectrum of discrimination, including beyond employment and have for example, appeared in a significant Windrush Judicial Review, the Covid Inquiry and been brought into appellate work in other jurisdictions, such as Commercial law, for my discrimination expertise. . Charity: Given that you specialise in various areas of Law, how do you stay abreast of the everchanging legislation to ensure that you continue to be an effective and competent Barrister?