A woman who embarked on her law studies a few weeks after giving birth has celebrated her Call to the Bermuda Bar.

Kiah Lettrice Ashbarry was welcomed to Bermuda’s legal community during a commercial court ceremony with her daughter, D’Nae, looking on and friends and colleagues in attendance.

Ms Ashbarry thanked her family — including her mother and father, who attended virtually — for their steadfast support in her career, which started in England 14 years ago.

She told the court: “As a first-generation lawyer and the first member of my family to attend university, this milestone in my career holds deep personal significance.

“I am mindful of the sacrifices and support of my family, who may not have walked this road before me but who have been unwavering in their support and belief in me.

“Most importantly, I stand here today as a mom. My daughter, D’Nae, was born just a few weeks before I started law school — she has quite literally been by my side throughout this journey.

“D’Nae, you have been my greatest motivation. Every late night, every challenge, every small victory was made more meaningful because we did it together.”

Ms Ashbarry said the ceremony on Friday was also special because it marked her mother’s 60th birthday.

The lawyer said her liking for Bermuda started in 2018 when she visited the island to see her friend, Melanie Fullerton, whom she met at law school years earlier.

“When I visited all those years ago, I told Melanie that I would live here one day … she never doubted me.”

Her petition was presented by Nick Miles, of Kennedys Bermuda, before Chief Justice Larry Mussenden.

Mr Miles said Ms Ashbarry is of “good character” and being admitted to the Bermuda Bar was “a significant milestone” for her.

Ms Ashbarry joined Kennedys in 2018 and qualified as an associate in the financial lines and professional indemnity team in Manchester in England in 2020, before transferring to the firm’s Bermuda office in 2024.

The company said Ms Ashbarry holds a strong background in contentious insurance disputes, including defending a wide range of professional negligence claims.

Ms Ashbarry said: “My firm supported me throughout my career, including my move to Bermuda.

“I am grateful to my colleagues at Kennedys — some of whom are here to support me today and who have become close friends.”

Mr Justice Mussenden congratulated Ms Ashbarry on her achievement.

He said the occasion was equally special for her and Bermuda, adding that “it’s always a good thing” when new lawyers are Called to the Bar.

He encouraged her to establish “good relations” with her colleagues at Kennedys as well as others in the legal fraternity.