Lorraine Aboagye

⚒️ What do you do?

I am a barrister at Essex Court Chambers in London.  My practice is mainly in commercial (both litigation and arbitration) and international law.  

My practice is varied and broad which I enjoy. I am currently working on an oil and gas dispute, a marine insurance dispute, a sanctions dispute and an aviation dispute, all involving parties based in different parts of the world. On the international law side, I am working on cases before regional human rights courts in different jurisdictions. 

What is your proudest achievement?
Helping my mentees get pupillage. The current market is highly competitive and unfortunately, there is a lack of representation of barristers from non-traditional backgrounds. I got here through the kindness of others who willingly gave up their time to guide me through the process and there is a real sense of fulfilment in being able to play a similar role in others’ journey.  

If you had 25 hours in a day, what would you do with the extra hour?
Learning a new language! I speak four languages and always wish I spoke others. I have wanted to learn British Sign Language for a very long time so that would definitely be on the list.  

If you weren't a lawyer, what would you be?
Most likely a linguist. I love finding out about the history and development of different languages. I am from Ghana, where over 80 languages are spoken. I speak two of them fluently and have always been fascinated by languages, their structure and the patterns between them. 

Your favourite food haunt is...?
The Great Nepalese, a stone’s throw away from Euston Station in London. It is a cosy restaurant with amazing food and friendly service. The staff are great at recommending traditional Nepalese dishes and I try something new each time.