Zoe Tranter has joined the Executive Committee of The Solo Practitioners Group.

Zoe established Tranter Mills Solicitors 13 years ago. She has worked in various organisations including national and international law firms, and consultant to a number of Local Authorities. Zoe has also acted for a number of major institutional pension funds and major household names from the retail sector.

 1. WHY LAW? 

I undertook work experience with our family solicitor at the age of 15 and decided a legal career was for me. I enjoyed observing the way of life in the firm and the work – meeting clients, solving their problems, helping them to achieve their goals. I also like the fact that the law is the law, and that sometimes, no matter what the issue, the collective might of the man on the street can defeat the establishment. There are not many other professions that can lay claim to achieving that. 

2. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT YOUR CAREER?

The intellectual challenge and meeting people – both clients and other professionals, from all walks of life and from different perspectives. I also enjoy helping clients achieve their goals. 

3. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? 

Pressure. A desire to succeed. The pursuit of perfection (which life has taught me, does not really exist, but I keep aiming high nonetheless). Helping my clients stand up to bullies, and dealing with matters that offend my sense of fair play. 

4. WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD? 

A chef – my family and friends still think I am a good cook even now, apparently! 

5. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB? 

Debt collection for my Father’s construction company, alongside studying for my A Levels. It was tough, but I learned a great deal about people and business. 

6. WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH THE MOST? 

I love stand up comedy. I have seen a number of high profile comedians live, and I also attend my local for comedy nights where newbies try out their material. 

7. WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? 

“Empire of Pain”, by Patrick Radden Keefe, about the opioid pandemic in America. I prefer to read non-fiction and memoirs / biographies. In particular I enjoy books about economics, politics and historical figures. 

8. WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE? 

People who do not do what they say they are going to do. People can “talk a good game”, but few put their money where their mouth is.

9. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE TV SHOW?

Succession. I really enjoy the show, despite the fact that not one of the characters is remotely likeable.

10. HOW WOULD YOUR FRIENDS DESCRIBE YOU?

After a straw poll, I am apparently – honest, loyal, focussed, determined, scatty at times, genuine and down to earth, and I have a dry sense of humour.