Karen Watton

Karen Watton is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Legal Education and Director of qLegal, Queen Mary University of London's award-winning commercial law clinic. She holds a Fine Art degree and a postgraduate diploma in Career Coaching. Prior to academia, she practiced law internationally for 15 years, taught Legal & Business English to international lawyers, and held senior roles in careers consultancy and LexisNexis.

Her research and professional focus revolves around innovation in legal practice, creativity in legal design, and the future of work within the legal sector. She leads experiential learning programs at qLegal, emphasizing bridging academic study with professional practice while improving legal services for clients and the public.

Karen is a member of the Law Society’s Learning & Development Steering Group, contributing to careers-focused initiatives. qLegal has been recognized at the LexisNexis Legal Awards 2025 and celebrated its 10-year anniversary with accolades for innovation and community impact.