Birmingham lawyer honoured for inspiring return to work post-maternity leave

Shakespeare Martineau partner Lucy Haynes has been recognised for balancing the demands of a legal career with life as a mother-of-three – including a daughter with complex medical needs – at this year’s Women and Diversity in Law Awards.

Returning to work after maternity leave is always a challenge, but for Lucy (pictured), a residential development and strategic land specialist, the transition was particular demanding.

Her resilience and dedication have now been recognised with a highly commended honour in the Returner of the Year category.

Based at Shakespeare Martineau’s Birmingham office, Lucy returned to the firm in October 2024 after a year-long maternity leave following the birth of her third child, Oscar.

Alongside the usual challenges of resuming a career, she has also been navigating the complexities of caring for her daughter, four-year-old Penny, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy at 18 months old, and, most recently, autism.

Lucy said: “Returning to work after having Oscar was far tougher than I expected and I’m incredibly grateful to my colleagues at Shakespeare Martineau for their support.

“This recognition isn’t just for me – it’s a message to all working mums that we can have both a successful career and a fulfilling family life. I hope my experience encourages more women in law to feel confident about returning after a break.”

The Women and Diversity in Law Awards celebrate legal professionals across the UK who are driving diversity and inclusion in the sector.

The Returner of the Year category recognises women who have successfully resumed their careers after an extended break – highlighting the hurdles they face and the support networks that help them thrive.

Lucy specialises in residential development and strategic land, offering expert guidance on sale and purchase agreements, strategic land agreements and joint venture agreements for development transactions.

She works closely with developers, promoters and landowners to navigate complex legal landscapes and deliver effective solutions.

Neil Gosling, head of residential development at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “Lucy’s return to work has been truly inspiring. She has not only re-established herself as a leader in our team but continues to excel in her role while balancing significant personal responsibilities.

“Her recognition at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards is well deserved and we’re incredibly proud to have her at Shakespeare Martineau.

“Our empowered working policy is designed to support colleagues in managing their own time and working patterns while ensuring the needs of clients, colleagues and the team are met. Lucy’s success is a testament to how flexibility and high performance can go hand in hand.”