Words and Photography by Nadine Wilmanns

Crystal Stewart

In conversation with Crystal Stewart, founder of Stalwart Solicitors London

Some women are just extraordinary – that was exactly what I thought after meeting Crystal Stewart for tea and coffee at the National Portrait Gallery in London. I mean, Crystal not only has a sparkling personality, but she is also smart and talented in many different areas, which I found truly exceptional.

Six years ago, Crystal founded her own family law firm – something not very common in the UK, where lawyers usually work in large firms with the aim of becoming partners. “I never thought I would become a lawyer – I went to a performing arts college,” she tells me. “Now, I’m glad. I enjoy family law because it allows me to go to court – in other legal fields that’s usually left to the barrister.” I can well imagine her making her case in front of judges, because she is so well-spoken – probably thanks to her performing arts background.

“Why did you start your own firm?” I ask.

“Before I started Stalwart Solicitors, I had worked for 13 years in a large firm. It was good training and built my confidence, but the firm also operated in a very old-fashioned way. We couldn’t offer weekend or evening appointments to clients, which in family law I found very impractical. For some people who needed help, it made seeking support impossible. So I wanted to do things differently and remove the barriers for people to see a lawyer. Knowledge is power, and I want people to know what their rights are. That’s why I also offer workshops in corporate environments – to empower people and educate them about their rights and options.”

It is a very noble mission, I think. But compared to a career as a performer… “Don’t you sometimes think you’re missing out, Crystal?”

“I still sing jazz – and now and then I perform with two friends who are professional musicians. But family law is very diverse and rewarding: I think about the practicalities of what can help in a situation, I come up with creative ways to achieve what`s good for the client – and first of all, I work out what the client really wants, because that’s often not obvious. I also help organize networking events for lawyers and those interested in law, because I want all types of people to believe they can become lawyers and bring more diversity into the industry.”