Spotlight on: Laura Thomas, Associate

Laura Thomas is an Associate within the Browne Jacobson health advisory and inquest team.

Laura talks to us about her journey into mental health and capacity law, her most challenging case to date and a surprising career moment involving nuns at an inquest.

How did you get into mental health and mental capacity law? 

I was unaware this area of law existed until I started my legal training with a local council, where I was lucky enough to spend some time with their Court of Protection team. The work very much piqued my interest and I was hooked!

What do you like about working in mental health and mental capacity law? 

I like how every case is unique because there is a person at the centre. What might be a great solution to an issue in one case is completely unworkable in another.

I love the niche situations that arise and the specialist knowledge you build up – from understanding what dressings are appropriate to treat a wound for a practising Hindu to knowing which care homes have Welsh speaking staff. 

What is your greatest professional achievement so far? 

I was a lead lawyer in the matter of A Health Board v AZ & Ors (Termination of Childhood Pregnancy: Guidance) (Rev3) [2023] EWHC 2517 (Fam), acting for the Health Board. We sought a declaration that it was in the best interests of an 11-year-old child to terminate her pregnancy, and to have tissue removed for the purposes of forensic testing in a criminal investigation.

It was naturally a very challenging and emotional matter for everyone involved, however the High Court granted the requested declarations. The Court also provided guidance for future cases involving childhood pregnancy, helping to protect vulnerable children in similar situations.

What are some of the best aspects of working at Browne Jacobson? 

The people are undoubtedly Browne Jacobson’s biggest asset and I really enjoy working with my team.

I’m able to work on interesting and varied cases daily, which continuously improves my skills. I’ve also built connections and friendships with colleagues across the firm through the various internal networks I belong to, which adds to my enjoyment of working here.

What’s something most people don’t know about you? 

I was a youth national champion fencer many, many years ago. I definitely would not hack the fancy footwork these days!

What is the most unusual thing that has happened to you in your career? 

I attended an inquest which involved a care home run by nuns. I ended up having to question numerous nuns under oath, which was quite unexpected!