What was your journey to practising at the Bar?
My journey to the Bar started with studying LLB Law with Business at the University of Birmingham. I then completed the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at BPP Law School (Birmingham) before being called to the Bar in 2017.
Upon completing the BPTC and having undertaken several legal volunteering roles and mini-pupillages, I began working as a County Court Advocate for LPC Law. This role was invaluable in developing my skills as an advocate. It involved appearing in the County Court before District Judges daily and I attended almost 2000 hearings before commencing Pupillage with 25 Canada Square Chambers (25CSC).
During Pupillage with 25CSC, I was able to build upon my vocational training and benefitted from shadowing experienced colleagues before putting these skills into practice during the practising period of Pupillage under the supervision of Chris McGeever.
What does your typical work schedule for a fortnight look like?
During a typical fortnight, I am usually in court at least four days per week. I accept a wide variety of instructions and naturally attend a broad range of hearings including Interim Applications, Dispute Resolution Hearings, Small Claims Hearings, Fast Track Trials, Winding Up Petitions, Stage 3 Hearings and Appeals.
When I am not in court, my time is spent balancing other tasks including conferencing with clients, undertaking research and preparing cases. A generous proportion of my workload also involves drafting which includes pleadings, advices and skeleton arguments.
What are some of the benefits of being a Member of 25 CSC?
Having joined 25CSC initially as a Pupil, I have benefitted from a cohesive support network with other members of chambers from the outset and have been able to integrate myself with ease.
For me, it is also particularly important to be part of a chambers that shares a commitment to always putting clients first. In offering a national coverage, 25CSC are always able to provide counsel with relevant experience. I also benefit in that I can undertake fulfilling work with clients nationwide.
Additionally, in managing a busy workload, I am greatly assisted by the support of Chambers’ Clerks. Their approachability is invaluable in assisting me to build and maintain excellent client relationships.
Over the next few years, what are you aiming to develop in your practice?
In recent years, I have developed a particular expertise in defended Consumer Credit claims, specifically in relation to ss140A – 140C Consumer Credit Act 1974 and secret and half-secret commissions. Over the next few years, my desire is to further develop this expertise in lender services with a focus on motor finance and fiduciary duties; thereby maintaining lender services as one of my most significant practice areas.
I am otherwise keen to maintain a broad civil practice with a particular focus on Personal Injury, Housing, and Insolvency. I welcome instructions encompassing both attendance at court and drafting/advisory work.