Attorney-at-law Stephanie Graham is a modern-day femme. Accomplished, sophisticated and one who can choreograph an entire set of individuals on a dance floor. We witnessed this first-hand at the Salut! launch last November. We certainly have our eyes on this one for 2018.

How and when did the Law find you?

Well, I didn’t take the traditional route. I always gravitated towards the science subjects whilst in school and this led me to acquiring my first degree in Environmental Biology from the University of the West Indies. But during my studies, in learning about all the environmental laws that we have to protect our beautiful island of Jamaica, I was disheartened by how little enforcement of these various laws seemed to take place. So, I got the bright idea that I would become an “advocate for the trees” and pursue further studies to become an environmental lawyer.

What is it about the Law that continues to attract hundreds each year?

Law is dynamic! There are various areas to practise, with new ones constantly emerging. Also, the study of law doesn’t limit a person’s career opportunities as it teaches you how to critically think and look at issues from every angle, which is fundamental to excelling in an array of jobs.

Would it be fair to say that today’s attorney-at-law needs to be bringing a lot more than the Law to the table? If so, why?

Yes, it is more than fair to say.

Today the profession is “saturated”, for want of a better word, and thus new attorneys are required to be more than just “book smart”. Newly called attorneys have to be industrious and innovative in order to carve a niche for themselves at a firm or to be even more independent and go out on their own straight out the gate. The ability to attract and retain clients and offer your service in emerging areas will set you apart from your peers.

What keeps you passionate about the Law?

It’s never mundane or routine! No two matters are ever the same, and I have had an opportunity to manage cases in a variety of areas.

What’s your single must-do prior to attending court?

Read the file! We don’t always get a lot of time to prepare for matters, so knowing the file is definitely the most important thing. (Well, when I have the luxury of having a file.)

Take us back to the first three months of your law career and answer this: If I knew then what I know now…

Oh wow, I guess that would be there is no reason to fear judges; once you’re adequately prepared and represent your client the best you can, you’ll mostly be happy with the interactions and outcomes.

Which most memorable court case, local or international would you have loved to have been part of?

I would have loved to be a part of The Facebook, Inc v ConnectU case. Not only is it so relevant to my generation but it touched on the areas of contract law and intellectual property which are very interesting to me.

What does Stephanie do when she’s off the clock?

I tend to be working out at one of my fitness homes; either I’m at 876 Crossfit or kickboxing with Iron Tiger. (Shameless plugs!).

Kitten heels or stilettos?

Forever a stilettos girl!

Who would most likely be on the phone with a pressing matter at 2:00 am?

Definitely a hard one! I don’t practise criminal law so if it’s not a family emergency it can normally wait till 8:00 am.

You are quite a dancer. What’s your preferred dance music?

Oh, that’s a really hard one. It varies based on my mood.

Is it still important for a man to be able to lead on the dance floor?

Very important. That’s indicative of someone who is able to take charge, communicate clearly and provide support for the woman he wishes to follow him.

Where is your happy place?

The gym.

Describe your perfect date.

Reservations for a delectable dinner with great conversation.

What’s a ‘never would’ that has recently changed into a ‘well, maybe’?

Well, I always said I never would be a housewife, but now…