Christa Anthony joined MKS as an Associate this autumn.
As part of our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we asked her to share her thoughts about working at MKS.
Welcome to the team, Christa! How does it feel to be joining MKS?
Joining the firm this September has been exciting! I’m looking forward to working with a talented team and diving into new projects. The environment seems friendly and collaborative, which makes me eager to contribute and learn.
What drew you towards MKS?
I was drawn to the firm because it offers the opportunity to work in a new jurisdiction, presenting exciting challenges in the realm of international asset recovery. The firm’s focus on multi-jurisdictional matters will allow me to expand my legal expertise while tackling complex issues that require innovative strategies and collaboration across different legal systems.
What were you doing before this?
Before joining MKS, I worked as a Junior Litigation Associate at FOSTERS, the top litigation firm in Saint Lucia, specialising in various areas including corporate and commercial law, debt collection and family law. It was a diverse experience, which honed my advocacy skills and helped equip me to navigate complex legal challenges, which I’m eager to apply to the international asset recovery work at MKS.
What aspects of legal practice do you find most rewarding?
Advocating for my clients – that’s my most rewarding experience. Being able to stand up for their rights and navigating the complexities of the legal system on their behalf is incredibly fulfilling. I have a strong passion for helping those who may feel overwhelmed or powerless, and striving to make the legal process more accessible for them.
In asset recovery, this role becomes even more significant, as we assist clients in reclaiming what is rightfully theirs. It’s gratifying to know that our efforts can lead to tangible results, restoring not only financial security but also people’s confidence in the legal system. The opportunity to advocate for clients during challenging times truly gives our work purpose and meaning.
I have a strong passion for helping those who may feel overwhelmed or powerless, and I strive to make the legal process more accessible for them.
Tell us about a challenging case or project you’ve worked on, and what you learned from it?
One challenging case I worked on involved representing a claimant who alleged that her stepmother had unduly influenced her father to transfer his shares in a company he owned – which held all his assets – to her.
The case was particularly complex, because the legal threshold for proving undue influence is quite high, requiring substantial evidence to demonstrate that the stepmother exerted inappropriate pressure on the father. A key aspect of the case was the share transfer document itself, which we scrutinised closely to uncover any irregularities in the process.
As I delved into the details, I learned the importance of thorough documentation and witness testimonies. I coordinated with financial experts and gathered evidence to build a compelling narrative that illustrated the dynamics between the parties involved. This experience taught me not only about the intricacies of undue influence, but also the significance of empathy when dealing with sensitive matters that affect personal relationships.
Ultimately, it reinforced my understanding of the delicate balance between legal strategy and the emotional aspects of such disputes, highlighting the necessity of approaching each case with both rigor and compassion—qualities I try to carry into my practice today.
What specific case or project has influenced your legal career?
One significant project that influenced my career involved representing a major financial institution in various debt recovery matters. In these cases, I worked closely with clients to navigate complex legal challenges and ensure their interests were effectively represented.
Each case presented unique circumstances, and I found it rewarding to develop tailored strategies that balanced legal rigor with a deep understanding of the financial landscape. I gained valuable insights into negotiating settlements and advocating for my client in court, all while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.
That experience reinforced my passion for advocacy and underscored the impact that diligent representation can have on financial institutions seeking to recover debts. It also solidified my interest in areas like asset recovery, where I can continue to help clients reclaim what is rightfully theirs.
I found it rewarding to develop tailored strategies that balanced legal rigor with a deep understanding of the financial landscape.
We all know how demanding a career in the law can be: do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work that help you maintain a healthy balance in life?
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and playing tennis, which help me unwind and stay active. Also, I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family.
How do you stay current with legal trends and developments?
Through a combination of continuous education and active engagement with the legal community. I attend seminars, subscribe to legal journals, and follow relevant online publications to keep abreast of new legislation and case law. Additionally, I participate in professional networks and discussion groups, which provide valuable insights and allow me to exchange ideas with peers. I try to remain well-informed and apply the latest developments to my practice.
And what about teamwork and collaboration … how do you approach that?
I try and emphasise open communication and value diverse perspectives, encouraging brainstorming sessions where all ideas are welcome. By establishing clear roles and responsibilities, I hope to foster accountability while creating a supportive environment that strengthens our professional relationships.
Tell us about some of your long-term career goals as you start this new chapter at MKS?
One of my primary long-term career goals is to further develop my advocacy skills and refine my legal craft. I aim to become a more effective and persuasive advocate, ensuring that I can provide the best representation for my clients, while tackling complex legal challenges with confidence and expertise.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
I would love to have dinner with Oprah Winfrey. She is not only a media mogul but also a powerful advocate for change and empowerment. Her journey from humble beginnings, to becoming a global icon, is incredibly inspiring. I would be fascinated to discuss her insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of ‘giving back’.
Have you got a personal mantra that keeps you going through tough times?
Yes, my personal mantra is: “This too shall pass.” It serves as a reminder that difficult moments are often temporary, and that perseverance is key. It encourages me to maintain perspective during challenges, knowing that each setback is an opportunity for growth and learning. By focusing on the bigger picture, I can approach tough times with resilience and a sense of hope.
My personal mantra is: “This too shall pass.”
How would you use that mantra to inspire others?
I would remind others that every challenge is temporary and an opportunity for growth, encouraging them to stay hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity.
Thank you for answering our questions, Christa, and glad to have you on board!
You can view Christa’s bio here.