Legal Life: Community Spotlight on Marti Burgess, Partner at Knights Plc

 

 

Can you tell us about your journey into law and where you are now?

I did my law degree at City of London Polytechnic and then completed my LPC at Bristol University. I took a break between finishing my degree and starting the LPC to work in my family business for six years. I returned to complete the LPC in the final year available to avoid having to do a conversion course. I now work at Knights as a partner in the corporate team, mainly advising on transactions involving owner managed businesses although I have picked up a few international clients recently who tend to be people making investments in the UK.

What inspired you to become a lawyer, and who or what supported you along the way?

I wanted to become a lawyer from a young age. I remember being ill and watching a daytime TV show called Crown Court in the 70s. The next day I wasn’t actually ill anymore, but I pretended to be so I could stay home and watch the second episode. I was fascinated by anything to do with the law and later got into shows such as LA Law and Ally McBeal. I also realised early on that people were impressed when you said you wanted to become a lawyer.

I was supported by my parents and grandparents, particularly my grandfather, who shared my love of reading and encouraged learning in his family. He was incredibly proud when I finished my studies and became a lawyer. I was the first of his grandchildren to get a degree and join a profession. He always said that he left his beloved Jamaica so that his children and grandchildren could have greater educational opportunities.

What sets your work or interests apart from the “traditional” legal path?

Working in my family business between my degree and the LPC and continuing to be involved has given me real insight into running a business. It’s helped me develop strong commercial awareness and understand how clients think when they’re receiving legal advice. I try to ensure my advice is clear and expressed in language that business owners can relate to.

What advice would you give to someone who may feel that a career in law is not ‘for people like them’?

Law underpins our society, and unless people who look like all of us are shaping, interpreting and applying it, then it isn’t truly inclusive. If those making and applying the law come from a limited range of backgrounds, there’s a risk the law becomes something done to people rather than with them. People are more likely to engage with and trust the legal system when they see themselves reflected within it.

Diverse perspectives also lead to better judgement calls. They help avoid unintended consequences. In corporate law, inclusion isn’t a “nice to have”, it’s an essential risk‑management tool. If everyone in the room sees the world the same way, that’s when mistakes are most likely to happen or you only offer limited solutions to clients.

One piece of advice for Bristol law students or early career lawyers.

Work out what you enjoy and become an expert in that area but remain curious and learn from the people around you. On most corporate transactions, we work closely with lawyers from other teams, and some of my most enjoyable moments are when I’m collaborating on a project and getting insight into their area of law.

What does the future look like for you?

 I am really enjoying my time at Knights and working with the team to raise our profile in Bristol.

A skill that matters more than people realise.

Listening.

Your best advice for balancing law with other commitments

Time management!