Daryna Plysak

Daryna Plysak is a trainee solicitor at Irwin Mitchell. She completed her LLB and LPC before working as a paralegal at several top firms. She was diagnosed with dyslexia aged 9.

What does ‘being neurodivergent’ mean to you?

To me, it is about how I perceive information, how I learn and approach problems and find solutions. It is also the recognition that there are some tasks that come easily to others whilst I have to work harder but also there are some situations where it can be a huge asset.

For a long time, I was embarrassed about having dyslexia, because I saw it, and felt it was generally considered as a weakness. I did not hear about solicitors or barristers with dyslexia, so I assumed it was a barrier to success. It was not until I opened up about it that people shared their stories, and it became apparent that there were others having successful legal careers.

Did you change the way you worked or studied after being diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 9? If so, how?

Not initially, the diagnosis explained more about why I struggled in certain areas, as opposed to giving me tools. As I was achieving good grades, it was not seen as an issue. It was not until I went to study my A levels that I met a teacher who understood what dyslexia was and was able to provide me with free tools, techniques, and resources to help me achieve more.

As an example whilst studying A levels, I understood the benefit of cue cards, mind maps and different memory techniques. Thanks to the support that I received at college when I went on to study my law degree, I had the confidence and knowledge to ask for support. The university helped me to apply for a bursary to pay for a laptop, dictaphone, printer and other stationery that assisted with my studies.

My current employer has taken the time to have a discussion with me about what they can do to help me; an example of tools I received was access to a dictaphone and noise-cancelling headphones. Now I know my strengths and weaknesses, I am able to arrange my work in a way that works for me.

Do you believe there is enough awareness of what being a neurodivergent individual encompasses and the importance of early diagnosis?

I can only talk of my own experience, but from a diagnosis perspective, yes. I think where more education is needed is in a practical sense, i.e. types of scenarios where I would struggle, but equally where I would thrive. It is also important to recognise that this will not be the same for everybody with dyslexia. People are already comfortable talking about personality types or learning styles, and I see this as a natural progression to that once any stigma is removed.

Do you believe neurodivergent individuals are prejudiced when applying for training contracts? If so, how?

That has not been my experience. After acknowledging it on the application form, I was offered additional support through the application process.

Further, I think that the application process is so varied, and the skills that are assessed are wide-ranging, so people can demonstrate their strengths as a whole and not be overlooked if there is a specific area that does not come as naturally.

My biggest worry is people just will not apply in the first place. You cannot be what you cannot see, and if more people speak up about their experiences that could encourage others to consider a career in the law.

Do you believe that there is a tendency among employers to view neurodivergent individuals in terms of impairment instead as of individuals who think differently?

Yes, because not enough focus is placed on highlighting the success stories, Einstein, Walt Disney, John Lennon to name but a few of a long list.

I think some firms are better than others, but the industry is improving as a whole. It is fairly clear when you look at a firm’s values, how they promote their staff and by listening to them speak how committed they are to diversity.

Have you felt comfortable informing your colleagues of your neurodivergence?

No, for the fear of the above. However, when I have shared it the response was positive and has made me feel better about it.

The turning point for me was when I opened up to a senior colleague about my fear of how having dyslexia might disadvantage me. I was anticipating them to console me, but instead their response was to tell me a story about a successful CEO they knew who had dyslexia, confirming that having dyslexia is not a disadvantage or an anchor, but an ability to look at the world differently.

This changed the way in which I perceived dyslexia, and helped remove any negativity I attached to it.

Tell us about your working day. How do you tailor your working practices to your needs?

My working day is pretty similar to somebody who does not have dyslexia, but some of the tools that help me are dictation and spelling systems. I also have a way of organising my tasks and notes which work for me.

I have an open conversation with my supervisors on what works for me and what does not that allows us both to work to my strengths but also explore areas where I could improve.

Do you think being neurodivergent has contributed to making you a better legal professional? How?

Yes, I believe so for a number of reasons. First, it has given me drive and tenacity to overcome challenges. Second, I think about the bigger picture and the content/ context of legal challenges such as case strategy or business development. Third, I am able to empathise with clients; my desire to keep things simple and use plain English is welcome by clients who want the same.

If you could give your younger self some advice, what would it be?

Be open to new opportunities and challenges; do not be put off by thinking that you cannot do it or that you are not good enough.

Do not shy away from the fact that you have dyslexia or think you are not good enough – it is a part of you, do not let it define who you are, but the reality is some things are harder, and some things come more naturally, it is only by knowing and accepting that you can manage it and go on to have a successful career.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

If the changes to legal training moves to more priority given to multiple-choice or psychometric tests, I worry that it will disadvantage people with dyslexia and become a barrier to qualifying when now more than ever law firms need people with diverse skills, thoughts and perspectives.

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© Neurodiversity in Law & Daryna Plysak

September 2020.

All opinions are of the individuals and not of Neurodiversity in Law.