Desert Island Discs
Nemone Lethbridge, lawyer and writer
Mar 2, 2025
Nemone Lethbridge, a pioneering barrister and writer, recounts her trailblazing journey in the male-dominated legal profession since 1956. She shares stories of early struggles, including having to use public facilities, and her unusual representation of the Kray twins. At 92, she passionately advocates for justice, discussing complex cases while reflecting on personal trauma and societal expectations. Her experiences also intertwine with her creative pursuits, including writing in Greece with her husband, a former convict, emphasizing resilience and the pursuit of justice.
50:59
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Quick takeaways
- Nemone Lethbridge's career exemplifies resilience, overcoming early misogyny in law and detours into writing to ultimately advocate for justice.
- Her return to law in the 1980s highlights the progress towards gender equality in the profession amidst continuing challenges for women.
Deep dives
A Trailblazing Legal Career
The guest reflects on her unconventional career in law, starting from her early successes that included defending notorious figures like the Cray twins, which helped solidify her reputation. However, her marriage to a playwright with a criminal past led to a significant setback, resulting in her dismissal from her legal practice and a nearly two-decade hiatus from the profession. During this time, she supported her family through creative writing and various jobs abroad, demonstrating resilience despite the challenges she faced. Ultimately, she returned to law in 1981, establishing a law center that provides crucial legal support to underserved communities, showcasing her dedication to justice.
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