‘Law Profession Is Not A Get-Rich Quick Scheme’
My name is Adeleke Alex-Adedipe. I am a Corporate Commercial Lawyer and a Partner in the law firm of Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA). My areas of specialisation include: Banking and Finance, Real Estate, Private Commercial, Aviation Law and general corporate practice.
I graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. I began my legal career at Standard Chartered Bank Plc, but then proceeded to full active legal practice at Paul Usoro & Co, subsequently moving to Aluko & Oyebode.
During my work life in Aluko & Oyebode, I was seconded to work in DE BRAUW BLACKSTONE WEST BROEK, a top tier firm in the Netherlands.
I am happily married, and my hobbies include reading, exercising, attending social functions, watching football and engaging in political discourse.
Have you had any challenges in your career as a Lawyer and if so, what were the main challenges?
Most definitely. I encounter them regularly. Like most Lawyers these days, billing clients, negotiating fees and collection of fees, is always a challenge.
Another challenge would be sourcing and retaining talent. This of course, has been a subject of discussion at many fora lately.
What was your worst day as a Lawyer?
Just like every other lawyer, I am sure I have had bad days. Unfortunately, none comes to my mind right now. I guess it’s part of my nature to learn the lesson, forget and move on.
What was your most memorable experience as a Lawyer?
My most memorable experience would have to be setting up DOA with my partners. I became a partner- a co-owner of a business. I cannot lie, the process has been painful, yet rewarding. To be a part of an organisation, that would contribute to the Nigerian legal industry. To be responsible for teaching and also learning. It was the start of my dreams being actualised. The possibilities were endless. To be honest, I cannot wait to see what happens in the near future, and create more “memorable” experiences.
Who has been most influential in your life?
I don’t want to limit this to one person. My mantra is to learn from every situation and I would say however, that the most influential person in my life is my mother. By her courage, sheer dedication,
and persistent prayers, I have come this far. My mother single handedly raised four children, three of whom are Lawyers today. She was and still is, my pillar of strength
Another influential person in my life, is my wife. My wife has also played a great part in my success story. She has supported and encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and has also held the reins during the times that the situation demanded it.
Last but certainly not the least, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode, MFR. He helped to shape the man and Lawyer that I am today, both from a legal and business point of view.
Why did you become a Lawyer? I come from a 2nd generation of lawyers, and as such was exposed to the profession. From an early age, I had a passion for solving problems.
Importantly, I regard the legal profession as one that affords the opportunity to solve people’s problems, either as an advocate or a corporate commercial Lawyer. For these reasons, I couldn’t have thought of a better profession for myself, than being a Lawyer. Law is a noble profession, and it is as rewarding as it is challenging.
What would your advice be to anyone wanting a career in Law?
I would say that with Law, the opportunities are endless. There is room for everyone.
While as a startup Lawyer, I learnt that patience, dedication, and smart work, yield profitable results. And being a successful Lawyer, is no guarantee that you will be the richest in the room. It is important to note that the law profession is not a “get rich quick” scheme.
If you had not become a lawyer, what career would you have chosen?
If I had not become a Lawyer, I would have become a Banker.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I see myself still as a Partner in Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe, and by which time it would be a top tier firm. I see myself being at the forefront of legal practice and a pioneer for a better Nigeria.
In ten years, DOA would have expanded its practice areas, grown its fee earning base tremendously, and of course, become a force to be reckoned with in the legal industry in multiple practice areas.
Lastly, I would like to have contributed to both the legal community and outside the legal community, in every way that I can; help as many people to grow, mentor the younger aspiring business and legal minds, and give back to my society.