Getting to know... Amy Wanless

In the latest instalment of Bdaily's Getting to know feature, which looks at the person behind the business profile, Amy Wanless, corporate partner at Newcastle, Darlington and Leeds-based Square One Law, talks about her path into the legal sector, the value of family time and why she loves the North East...

We know you as a corporate partner at Square One Law, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick...

I am a mother to my amazing nine-year-old daughter and wife to my gorgeous husband. 

I’m also the owner of three crazy rescue cats – Meowthra, Sir Meowzalot and Maximus – and three rehomed guinea pigs – Ginger Fluff Ball, Chocolate and Cinnamon.

I love good food and eating out with my family, and exploring the Northumberland countryside and the Lake District.

Did you always want to work in law? 

I did from around the age of 14.

It was either law or the police. 

Both routes suited my very strong sense of justice as I was growing up. 

I used to visit the courts regularly as a teenager and sit in on trials.

I went on a CPS course and carried out work experience at a family law firm, but it wasn’t until I managed to get work experience at a commercial law firm that I knew working with businesses was the area of law for me.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst? 

There are so many good things, and I genuinely love coming to work.

I love working with great people, supporting clients with their strategic and legal business needs, and feeling like I can add value. 

The worst bit isn’t law-specific, but I really don’t like rude and unkind people. 

Everyone is going through something in their life; there really is no need to treat people poorly.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement? 

Nine years on and it is still my daughter. 

What is more important than raising the next generation and ensuring they are supported enough to be able to thrive with whatever they want to do?

She has been by far my hardest challenge and the best thing – along with my husband – in my life. 

She is AuDHD and, as well as navigating burnout and the unique challenges it brings, it has brought us closer together as a family.

How do you relax outside of work? 

When I get the chance, I love to read. 

Anything and everything, poetry, novels, graphic novels (courtesy of my daughter) and non-fiction.

I also discovered mindfulness meditation about nine years ago, which is an amazing way to recharge.  

Otherwise, every weekend you can usually find me with my husband and daughter, either exploring our local beaches or climbing up a fell.

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work?

The North East is a wonderful place. 

The genuinely friendly people, the stunning coastal experiences and picturesque countryside, the quality of life and the great quality of work and businesses. 

I have lived across the UK and abroad, and I know I am bringing up my daughter in a wonderful part of the world where we can share time together as a family and I can do a job I love.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know... 

I am quite an open book, so there isn’t much left to know! 

I have, however, been lucky enough to live, work and travel around the world. 

There are still so many more places to see and explore, and I hope as my daughter grows in age and confidence that she will want to come on some adventures, while planning some of her own.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →