Lord Leggatt has recently ascended to the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in his legal career. His journey reflects not only ambition but also a profound understanding of the importance of enjoying the process rather than fixating solely on outcomes.
A Balanced Perspective on Career Aspirations
Throughout his career, Lord Leggatt has maintained a balanced attitude towards his professional aspirations. He stated, “I didn’t want to end my career feeling that I’d failed, of course, so I didn’t want to set everything on having got to the Supreme Court or not.” This mindset allowed him to focus on the present while keeping an eye on future opportunities.
Initially drawn to philosophy rather than law, Lord Leggatt’s academic background at King’s College showcased his rebellious spirit as the son of a judge. His experiences at Cambridge University were diverse; he excelled in sports, serving as captain of the rowing team, and even participated in a wine tasting team, where he humorously noted he scored lowest among his peers yet still outperformed some from Oxford.
Philosophy’s Influence on Legal Interpretation
His philosophical studies proved beneficial in his legal career, particularly when interpreting complex legal concepts. He explained, “Let’s say we have a case about what the meaning of a ‘newspaper’ is, and whether a statute which grants a VAT exemption for ‘newspapers’ applies to the online version.” Such inquiries require deep philosophical engagement, showcasing the intersection of law and philosophy.
Despite the apparent benefits, Lord Leggatt encountered skepticism regarding his philosophical references in court. He recalled a moment when he cited philosopher Willard Van Orman Quine during an appeal, only to have his argument met with ridicule. “I realised that not all judges may view philosophy with the same sympathy that I do,” he admitted, illustrating the varying perceptions within the legal community.
After graduating, Lord Leggatt spent a year at Harvard University as a Harkness Fellow, where he began to contemplate a career in law. His role as a teaching assistant to renowned legal philosopher Ronald Dworkin further solidified his interest in the field. He noted that the undergraduates he interacted with were “most of [his] friends,” highlighting the social aspects of his experience.
Following his time in the United States, he returned to the UK to complete a law conversion course in London. Even then, his love for the American experience influenced his decision to defer his pupillage. He spent a year teaching at the University of Chicago, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of student life.
Eventually, he practiced at Sullivan & Cromwell in New York. While the financial rewards were substantial, he found the legal culture unappealing. “I felt I was just a little cog in an enormous legal machine,” he said, reflecting on the lack of autonomy despite the lucrative salary.
Upon returning to the UK, he transitioned to a career as a commercial barrister, nurturing his ambition to influence legal outcomes directly. He expressed, “It’s exciting to argue cases, but it’s even more satisfying to actually have a say in deciding the case.” This desire led him to take on roles that would prepare him for higher judicial responsibilities.
Pathway to the Supreme Court
When three vacancies arose in the Supreme Court, Lord Leggatt had only been in the Court of Appeal for two years. Despite initially planning to wait longer, he decided to seize the opportunity. “I’ve got to go for it now,” he recalled, acknowledging the thrill of success when he was appointed.
The journey to becoming a Supreme Court Justice has not altered his perspective on life’s journey. He reiterated the importance of enjoying each moment, stating, “Don’t always be thinking about the next step. Otherwise, we’re not enjoying life as it goes along.” His insight serves as a reminder that while ambition can guide professional paths, it should not overshadow the enjoyment of the journey itself.
Lord Leggatt’s reflections on his career path emphasize the significance of balance between ambition and appreciation for the present, a lesson that resonates beyond the legal profession.
