Louise Turner, a distinguished CILEX Lawyer and Consultant at Setfords, has been awarded the prestigious honorary title of CILEX Companion.
This recognition, the highest honour conferred by CILEX (The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives), celebrates individuals whose exemplary leadership and contributions have significantly impacted the legal profession, CILEX, and the wider legal community.
Louise joined Setfords in January 2024, specialising in criminal defence and education law, offering expert advice and representation in matters ranging from serious criminal allegations to school admission appeals. With over 24 years of experience, including as a CILEX Litigator and Advocate in Criminal Proceedings, Louise has earned a reputation as a proactive and dedicated legal professional, protecting her clients’ interests at every stage of the legal process.

In receiving this prestigious accolade, Louise Turner said:
I am delighted to be honoured by CILEX for my contribution to the legal profession through my legal practice as a CILEX Lawyer. Being a lawyer is all I have ever wanted to be, and the CILEX route to law enabled me to achieve that goal. I want to encourage those thinking about their career options to consider a career in criminal law. It is everything you would imagine—exciting, varied, and, most of all, rewarding. After 24 years in criminal law, I still enjoy it just as much now, owning my own legal consultancy, as I did on my first day working in the Magistrates Courts.
Throughout her career, Louise has made significant contributions to the legal community, working tirelessly to promote judicial diversity through her role on high-level committees and her involvement with the CILEX Foundation, which helps to remove barriers to legal education. Louise’s role as a CILEX Companion will allow her to further influence the profession by mentoring future generations of CILEX members and contributing to the strategic direction of CILEX.
Yanthe Richardson, President of CILEX, remarked:
The Board recognised Louise’s outstanding achievements as a CILEX Fellow, her support and contributions to the CILEX Foundation, and the work she does to support our mission to improve judicial diversity. As someone who exemplifies what CILEX lawyers can achieve, she is a role model to our members and an ideal candidate for this prestigious honour.
Louise’s areas of expertise include defending clients against false allegations, serious sexual and domestic offences, and school-related legal matters such as admission and exclusion appeals. Her approach ensures that her clients’ professional reputations and personal interests are meticulously safeguarded, a testament to her commitment to achieving the best outcomes.
As a CILEX Companion, Louise will continue to share her insights and expertise through mentoring and advising on key CILEX initiatives. Her contributions will be invaluable as CILEX embarks on its mission to address legislative challenges, introduce new membership grades, and promote full equality for its members within the legal profession.