Name: Kirsty Leedam
Company: HM3 Legal
Position: Family Lawyer and Partner
What do you actually do day-to-day?
On a day-to-day basis, I untangle other people’s lives. I spend my time advising clients on relationship breakdowns, divorce, children and finances, translating legal jargon into plain English, and helping people make sensible decisions when emotions are running high. Some days involve negotiations and paperwork, others involve court, and many involve listening, problem-solving and a steady supply of coffee. My aim is to navigate my clients through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
At its heart, my job is about helping families move on with as little stress as possible.
What experiences or influences guided you toward your current profession?
My early ideas about law were shaped by Ally McBeal and Legally Blonde — glamorous courtrooms, big speeches and very good shoes. Work experience in Family Law at age 16 showed me it was completely different. Over 20(+!) years later I am still at it.
Early in my career, I saw how profoundly legal advice can affect families at moments of change or crisis, and how much difference a calm, practical lawyer can make. It turns out I like problem-solving, plain English, and helping people through emotionally charged situations
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received was to pause before sending an important email (or text message). In family law, a hastily sent or aggressive message can inflame emotions, entrench positions and undo weeks of careful progress. Taking a moment to reread, soften the tone and consider the impact often makes the difference between escalating a conflict and helping families move forward. Ask yourself would I be prepared to read this email out loud to a Judge. It’s simple advice, but genuinely life changing.
What does leadership mean to you?
To me, leadership means staying calm when situations are emotionally charged, making considered decisions, and setting the tone for others to follow. In Family Law, that often involves guiding clients and colleagues with empathy, clarity and integrity, even when the issues are difficult. Good leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room, but about helping people feel heard and confident in the way forward.
What has been your favourite Professional Liverpool event and why? / If you are a new member, which event are you most looking forward to attending and why?
There are many Professional Liverpool events I have enjoyed, but I particularly enjoyed the November Supper Club at The Pullman. Great food, great guest list and a really relaxed way to make new connections.
What’s your favourite TV programme?
I am a little bit obsessed with The Traitors. I’ve watched them all, even the USA ones.
How do you relax?
Walking my Cockerpoo, Luca, and listening to audiobooks or podcasts such as Crime Junkie.
Which do you prefer: sweets or chocolate? And what’s your favourite?
I’m not a sweet tooth. Give me a bag of pork scratchings any day.
Pub or club?
Pub.
Do you have any hobbies?
I enjoy Barry’s Bootcamp and hot yoga. And I travel whenever I can and at every opportunity.
Go to karaoke song?
The first (and last) time I sung karaoke was Sunshine on Leith by The Proclaimers.
I am not sure I am qualified to answer this question.
Favourite venue in Liverpool?
Big fan of Greek food, so the Greek Taverna Bold Street comes to mind.