For Women’s History Month, we are proud to spotlight Juliet Astbury, whose diverse experience and determination reflect the impact of women in the legal profession.
As a Partner and leader of the Corporate practice group at Dentons in Pittsburgh, she leads a team of over 20 transactional lawyers. Originally from the U.K, she has been based in the U.S for about 8 years. Before coming to the U.S., she practiced law in London and the Middle East. She then took and passed the Pennsylvania bar exam, and she is now qualified to practice law in both the U.K and Pennsylvania. With firsthand knowledge of both U.S. and U.K. legal systems, she brings valuable insight into the challenges international businesses face when entering the American market.
“I have been able to leverage my cross-border experience to work on transatlantic and international deals with partners in the U.K. and beyond.”
Practicing law was not always her intended path. Initially drawn to investment banking, a summer internship in London revealed that banking was not the right fit, but introduced her to transactional deal work. That experience ultimately led her to corporate law, where she could combine her interest in business transactions with legal strategy.
Juliet offers valuable insights through reflections on her own journey.
“Don’t worry about taking a non-traditional path.”
She has worked in London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Pittsburgh; she would not have anticipated this career path. Through this journey, she has been able to broaden her horizons and offer the perspectives that make her stand out.
“Don’t shy away from opportunities to work in different jurisdictions.”
Her practical advice in her specific role is equally beneficial. For a transactional attorney, understanding the financial implications of a deal is just as critical as mastering the law.
“Learn to read a balance sheet—it will be just as important to your clients as your legal knowledge.”
A defining moment in her career came when the Corporate team at Dentons took a chance on her before she had taken the Pennsylvania bar exam. Despite her limited exposure to U.S. law at the time, the firm recognized her potential. That opportunity became the foundation for the success she has built for herself.
Juliet highlights how working in M&A, a historically male-dominated field, has not been without challenges.
“With women being underrepresented at senior levels in law firms, investment banks, and accounting firms.”
She has recognized the challenge of changing the demographics. Although Juliet has had excellent mentors throughout her career, female mentors have been more difficult to find. She has taken action to change the script by offering mentorship to the next generation of female attorneys.
“As a leader of my team, I endeavor to fulfil this role and take great pride in the fact that more than half the associate attorneys in my team are female, showing that there is room for everyone in the law.”
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Juliet’s journey of resilience, determination, and the courage to take an unconventional path.
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