CitySolicitor
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The City of London Solicitors’ Company Court of Assistants
Master
VIRGINIA CANNON
Senior Warden
SIMON DAVIS
Junior Warden
GARETH LEDSHAM
Stewards
LEE MCLERNON
DOMINIC GRIFFITHS
Full Assistants
MARY-ANN WRIGHT
CLARE MURRAY
LUCY RILEY
CLARE WILSON
ASTER CRAWSHAW
IAIN MILLER
RAFIQUE KHAN
LUCA CORDELLI
SIMON MCMENEMY
Additional Assistants
CLIONA O’TUAMA
PETER KING
SUZANNE TODD
Chair of the City of London Law Society
COLIN PASSMORE
Ex-officio assistants
Past Masters
JOHN YOUNG
DAVID BIDDLE
STUART BEARE
WILLIAM KING
MICHAEL MATHEWS
BRIAN GREENWOOD
ALASTAIR COLLETT
NIGEL BAMPING
KAREN RICHARDSON
ALEXANDRA MARKS, C.B.E.
ALDERMAN SIR DAVID WOOTTON
JOHN WHITE, T.D.
MARTIN ROBERTS
ALDERMAN VINCENT KEAVENY C.B.E.
DAME FIONA WOOLF, D.B.E, D.L.
NICHOLAS HUGHES
DAVID GRAVES
RUPERT JONES
JOHN WOTTON
ROBERT BELL
TONY KING
SARAH DE GAY
EDMUND PARKER
Clerk
KERRI MANSFIELD, J.P.
The City of London Law Society
President
*THE MASTER
Chair
COLIN PASSMORE
Chief Executive
PATRICK MCCANN
Treasurer
VICTORIA YOUNGHUSBAND
Administrator
ELIZABETH THOMAS
Legal Policy Analyst
KEVIN HART
Committee
CHAIR
PRESIDENT
ELISABETH BALTAY
SALOME COKER
*ASTER CRAWSHAW
SIMON DAVIS
CHRISSY FINDLAY
RICHARD HARRISON
ALEX KYRIAKOULIS
DAVID PATIENT
CHRISTOPHER PUGH
BEN ROSE
SHANNETT THOMPSON
† PETER YOUNG
* Ex-officio, appointed by the CLSC
† Ex-officio as members of the Council of The Law Society
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Editor
Salome Coker
Editorial Board
Joel Leigh (Howard Kennedy LLP), Chair
Sophia Watson (Eversheds Sutherland LLP)
Colin Passmore (CLLS)
Patrick McCann (CLLS)
Naureen Shariff (Blackfords LLP)
Elizabeth Thomas (CLLS)
Laura Uberoi (Addleshaw Goddard LLP)
Journalist
Maroulla Paul
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The City of London Solicitors’ Company
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8 DON’T BE ONE
Sheep follow. They want to be a part of a herd. We examine why it is important to think, to make one’s own mind up, to be a leader.
26 STEPPING FORWARDS INTO THE FUTURE AND BACKWARDS INTO HISTORY
We visit the new home for the CLSC and the CLLS which blends modernity and history in a way totally befitting to its new inhabitants.
32 CELEBRATION OF IMPACT
Coming together to recognise the achievements of CLSC and CLLS Members.
18 A NEW CANVASS
The healing power of art. We talk to Huyen Phan who felt her life was no longer worth living when she discovered art and its ability to transform and bring light.
38 LET THE SHEEP DRINK CHAMPAGNE
10 WHEN AI GIVES YOU ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI is the first to tell us that we can’t take what it says as always being fully accurate. So why do we blindly follow its answers, often without interrogating to find if they are correct or not?
28 SUNDAY MORNING SHENANIGANS
Herding sheep across a London bridge is not a common event - but it is an ancient tradition that happens once a year. We report on this very bizarre and utterly wonderful ritual.
22 THE VALUE OF JUSTICE FOR ALL
Sheriff of the City of London, Robert Hughes-Penney, talks to City Solicitor about how he wants to find creative and innovative ways and use technology in order to fulfil his responsibility of delivering justice.
14 HOISTED BY HIS OWN PAINTBRUSH?
The political power of art. Recently the Royal Courts of Justice boasted a Banksy on their walls for a full 24 hours before the artwork was forever washed away. Will the artist be prosecuted for criminal damage to a listed Government building, thereby exposing his identity - or will this latest political piece simply have boosted his notoriety even more?
30 THE LADY MAYOR'S SHOW
The Company joins the City's celebrations in spectacular style.
24 A REFLECTION ON THE YEAR FROM COLIN PASSMORE
looks forward to a new year and bigger achievements and successes in our profession.
(We’ll stick to the good stuff)
Considered one of the finest winemakers in the world at the moment, we talk to Dermot Sugrue - as well as taste some of his creations to find out what all the fuss about Sugrue is and to understand what the trouble is with dreams.
41 FOR PETROLHEADS
Fascinating history of the Wolseley Motor Company
33 CITY LAWYERS, SPORT AND A SUNDAY WELL SPENT. CLSC AT THE LAW SOCIETY FESTIVAL OF SPORT.
The CLSC participated in this fun, but at the same time competitive, event for the first time this year. We see how the day went and how they fared.
34 SISTERS ARE DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES
45 THE LAST WORD
Did you know....?
Following our review of the award-winning Ynyshir, we visit their sister restaurant, Gwen; a restaurant which shares some of its elder sibling’s incredible qualities but has an individuality all of its own.
CLLS Chair, Colin Passmore, reflects on 2025 and
InSister Act (1992), there is a moment I have always loved. Sister Mary Robert (Wendy Makkena) insists on lipsynching in the back of the choir rather than let anyone hear her voice. She eventually finds her voice after a gentle but persistent push from Sister Mary Clarence (Whoppi Goldberg). What begins as hesitation becomes confidence, and the whole choir shifts with her.
This year we have been finding our collective voice as a profession. We explored ethics, doing the right thing, and speaking truth even when it feels uncomfortable. Now, as I step into my third year as Editor, I am still finding my own voice too. It is a process, and a rewarding one.
If last edition was about elephants in the room, this one is about sheep. Stay with me.
Earlier this Autumn, dozens of sheep crossed London Bridge in full ceremony, herded by Liverymen in traditional dress. A sight usually reserved for the countryside suddenly appeared in the City. Maroulla captures it perfectly in her piece. I am determined not to miss it next year.
In other unexpected news, a Banksy appeared on the Royal Courts of Justice, marking the first time he has painted on a government building. We spoke to Boodle Hatfield, a leading art law firm, about what this means for protest art, freedom of expression, and public perceptions of the justice system. Speaking of justice, our SWSQF fund passed the £1.5 million mark this autumn, which means 150 aspiring legal aid lawyers will receive support through qualification. A meaningful milestone worth celebrating.
Our Chair, Colin Passmore, reflects on these developments and more in his end-of-year letter. He shines a light on the essential advocacy work of the CLLS, much of which happens
WELCOME TO THE WINTER EDITION OF CITY SOLICITOR MAGAZINE: THE SHEEP EDITION.
quietly, behind the scenes. Our specialist committees continue to do vital work, often without fanfare, but with real impact.
And then there is AI. Many of us feel “AI’d out,” yet it continues to shape our profession in profound ways. I would genuinely love to hear how you are using AI in your personal or professional life, and whether you believe it is making us less intelligent or simply more efficient. Email me your thoughts: I will be reading every response.
As for lighter fare, our food and drink pages return in festive spirit. After exploring Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms in Wales last edition, this time Maroulla visits their sister restaurant, Gwen. We also dive into the rise of English sparkling wine, which is now outperforming Champagne in many blind tastings. Even more surprising, Essex has quietly become one of the best places in the UK to grow red wine grapes. I may plant a vine in my garden and see what happens. And if you are looking for excellent no or low alcohol options, have a look back at our summer edition.
As the year draws to a close and the festive season settles in, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the people who bring this magazine to life. To Maroulla Paul whose words, thoughtful interviews and meticulous work bring this magazine to life issue after issue, and to Liz Thomas for keeping everything running with grace and good humour. Thank you both.
My hope for the year ahead is simple. That we continue to lead as a profession, not follow. That we continue to speak clearly, act ethically, and use our voices with confidence.
Warm wishes for the winter season. ■
Salome Coker Editor mail@citysolicitors.org.uk
DON’T BE ONE
by Jim Rice
Image
Human beings have an instinctive tendency to flock together; to be like others. To be a part of, not apart.
Itis these very instincts that lead to tribalism, which seems to be at the root of most conflicts. If you are a part of one tribe that immediately sets you against another. Think Manchester City or Manchester United, north or south London, Catholics or Protestants, black or white. Be it sports, geography, religion - in fact most things in our life - we seem to choose a side, behave in the same way and give up freedom of thinking.
It is these very instincts that lead to tribalism, which seems to be at the root of most conflicts. If you are a part of one tribe that immediately sets you against another. Think Manchester City or Manchester United, north or south London, Catholics or Protestants, black or white. Be it sports, geography, religion - in fact most things in our life - we seem to choose a side, behave in the same way and give up freedom of thinking.
Look at sheep. When one moves, the others follow. But we are not sheep. We need to think - independently, clearly, logically.
This magazine is dedicated to not being part of a herd, to taking one’s own path, to thinking for ourselves.
Racheal Muldoon ‘award winning lawyer with internationally recognised expertise at the intersection of the law and technology,
including Digital Assets and Artificial Intelligence (AI)’ talks of the importance of leading and not following when it comes to AI. We need to lead it, not allow it to lead us. If we blindly follow it, like sheep, that is where problems will arise. It is our tool, not our master. Recently, several incidents have been highlighted where AI gave ‘artificial’ not correct information. Taking it as gospel, not checking, allowing it to have the last say has led to some highly tricky situations.
Also, like sheep, we are quick to jump onto the latest bandwagon. And revealing true identities is something the whole world seems currently obsessed with. Is there anyone who doesn’t want to find out Banksy’s true identity? But stop for a moment. When we discovered who the real Elena Ferrante is, did that change anything? Did we love her books any more or less? Did it add anything? Whoever Banksy is, his art is instantly recognisable, his talent unquestionable, his legacy assured. Knowing he is John Smith or Fred Bloggs is utterly meaningless.
Being a sheep can lead to believing blindly what everyone else says. And that may lead to not being wholly just. As someone who believes in the value of justice for all, Sheriff Robert Hughes-Penney says we need to look at the facts, not fiction before deciding on which side to take.
Following your own path when obstacles are hurled in from all directions to cause us to stumble is far from easy. But Huyen Phan overcame hardship to find her place. And, art helped her to do that.
One thing the CLLS Chair, Colin Passmore, can never be accused of is being a sheep. Colin was born to lead. He talks of his past year with the CLLS and what he has - and still - wants to achieve.
And, if for centuries, we have sipped champagne believing it to be the best sparkling wine there is, we need to rethink as the English are teaching us something very different.
On the subject of the English, we can never be accused of being anything but somewhat individual, a tad different. And nothing highlights that more than some of our old established, perhaps quirky traditions, one of which is herding sheep (real ones in this case) over one of our fine City’s bridges.
Read these articles - and make your own mind up. ■
WHEN AI GIVES YOU ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Artificial intelligence has rapidly woven itself into the fabric of modern life, from powering search engines and chatbots to shaping medical decisions and financial markets. Yet alongside its remarkable potential lies a persistent and troubling problem: AI often gets things wrong.
Atthe root of this issue is the fact that AI systems don’t ‘understand’ in the way humans do. They rely on patterns in data, which means that if the training data is biased, incomplete, or outdated, the system’s output will be flawed. For example, medical diagnostic tools may misidentify conditions in underrepresented groups, or automated recruitment systems may unfairly filter out qualified candidates based on gender or ethnicity. These errors are not merely technical glitches—they can have real-world consequences for people’s health, careers, and rights.
Another problem lies in overconfidence. AI often delivers answers with authority, even when it is wrong. This can mislead users into placing too much trust in the system, particularly when they lack the expertise to challenge its conclusions. In sectors such as law, misplaced trust can prove costly or even dangerous, as we have seen recently with reporting of such instances. Even Chat GPT warns us; ‘ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.’
Once while writing an article about London wineries, I asked Chat GPT what Blackbook’s sparkling white which is called GMF stood for. It gave me a very plausible answer about it being the initials of the two owners and their son. Whilst those three did have names with those initials making it a very plausible explanation, it was actually 100% wrong. Fortunately, I did check the info!
Moreover, AI’s errors can be opaque. Unlike a human expert who can explain their reasoning, AI models often act as ‘black boxes’ When mistakes occur, it may be impossible to trace the logic behind them, making accountability difficult.
The challenges are compounded by the sheer scale of AI deployment. A single error can cascade across millions of users, amplifying harm. As reliance on AI grows, so too does the urgency of building safeguards—
ranging from better transparency and regulation to insisting on human oversight where critical decisions are concerned.
AI is a powerful tool, but when it gets things wrong, the costs can be profound. The task now is ensuring that these systems remain fallible assistants, not unquestioned authorities.
Oliver Cox is a legal director with Addleshaw Goddard who deals specifically with reputational threat - which is an area where AI is becoming increasingly a source whereby reputations can be damaged. Say, a perfectly innocent person asks AI a question and it ‘hallucinates’ a response which could include defamatory allegations against a company. If that information is then unwittingly thrown to the world, that is a perfect example of how such damage could occur.
“In June 2023, a State of Georgia radio host called Mark Walters started legal proceedings against OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. The bot had answered a query from a journalist stating incorrectly that Mr Walters had been sued for defrauding and embezzling funds. This is just one early example, there are many impacting the real world at the moment. Only this year, there have been several cases here in England where Counsel cited authorities, including Court of Appeal decisions, that they had sourced through AI which actually didn’t exist. The authorities were completely fictitious. Solicitors and barristers risk wasted costs orders and contempt of court by using search engines and AI to conduct legal research and then not checking the findings.”
How can we prevent this happening?
“The reality is that AI is here and here to stay. The only way we can use it safely, is to check, check, check. You need to ensure that what AI is saying is actually correct - and that involves researching the information, not just taking it as gospel. Blaming AI for having used information that is wrong is not a defence, the recent decisions have made that clear. The platforms themselves always assert that their results may not be accurate. The responsibility 100% lies with the user. The watch words are “trust, but verify”. AI is most definitely getting smarter, every week these engines are getting more reliable. It would be a Luddite response to suggest we all go back to textbooks. But equally whilst we are in this period where they are working out the kinks, anyone who is publishing or using anything which might harm reputation needs to invest time to apply common sense, read it through and check references.”
In reality, this is not that different from anything else. Where we do use text books, we need to ensure we are using the latest version. Anyone with any sort of academic background knows that relying on one source is dangerous. Nothing has really changed - except for some reason we assume AI is always right. This is not a shiny new toy that solves all our problems, it still needs to be checked. AI is an aide not a replacement.
Addleshaw Goddard is embracing, not rejecting, AI. The firm, which has won awards for its legal innovation, has built a home grown internal AI platform (“AGPT”) in order to protect client data and information. The concern is that external AIs could one day spit out something to a third party that should be confidential.
The way search engines operate now means nobody can really avoid using AI as it's the first thing we read when we ask a question. And research is showing that that is not just where people start but where they stop. Which is why they make mistakes and trip up.
Interestingly, even due diligence companies are now using AI to do research that was done more manually and personally before - if they get it wrong, a person could be, say, de-banked, for some fictitious crime that has been ‘hallucinated’. The fundamental problem is that AI cannot distinguish between fact and fiction. They literally do not know the difference.
Oliver tells how for some AI platforms you can specifically instruct them to be accurate and that seems to make them apply a higher standard. But given a free licence, an AI could simply tell you a made up story.
Firstly, we have the ‘hallucinations’ that large language models are throwing out. These are not necessarily the fault of the algorithm per se, but the datasets that are being fed in. There are remedial measures that can be taken from a master data management, MDM, point of view such as the input of synthetic data to address bias, amongst other issues.
Next, there is a proliferation of AI being used to enhance cyberattacks. Again, this is not the fault of technology but a case of technology falling into the hands of bad actors. We’ve seen that with the DragonForce attacks on the UK retail sector.
We need to embrace AI and use it defensively, to enhance our securitythe other side of the same coin. Weaponising it - especially as we move into a quantum age, could lead to incredible dangers. One day, systems and processes may just stop altogether, including traditional encryption tools. I was until recently sceptical about whether this could ever happen - but now, speaking to MIT engineers and other experts, I am persuaded that it can and will.
“Doing the right thing is an integral part of a lawyer’s DNA but determining what is right in today’s turbulent world can be perceived differently by different people.”
“The phrasing of the query is crucial. Then interrogate the findings. Ask more questions. To the point where the output is simple to verify elsewhere. We don’t have to revert to a 19th or 20th century solution, you can use AI to check AI.”
Racheal Muldoon, a partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, is an awardwinning lawyer with internationally recognised expertise at the intersection of the law and technology, specialising in AI.
She describes herself as a technologist who seldom finds cause to blame the technology. She says when it does go 'wrong' it is usually the human interaction with the technology that is flawed - as consumer, programmer or otherwise. Technology can only be as strong as its weakest link, which is, more often than not: us.
“When you look at what is wrong with AI, there are three headlines.
Lastly, there is the use of intentionally manipulative algorithms that are impacting lives. There was a complaint recently filed in the states against OpenAI by parents whose son had allegedly been encouraged by ChatGPT to take his own life.
Having said all this, what AI can give to society is enormous. Look at healthcare. AI can spot cancer in really early stages when it is impossible to detect with the human eye. AI offers us the possibility of personalised medication and virtual health assistants. It can make learning easier by making it much more interactive. It will make our jobs less about the mediocrity of repetitive tasks and more about more rewarding work. And the list goes on...
But the bottom line with AI is that we cannot be led by these tools, nor feature passively 'in the loop'. We must lead. We shouldn’t be intimidated by it - it is simply another weapon in our arsenal for us to wield responsibly and decisively. Nor can we blindly rely on it. We need to apply critical thinking and approach the platforms with a healthy degree of scepticism - at this early stage, that is what is required. Start with the assumption that an output may be incorrect. Then use different sources and platforms to verify.”
In short, when using AI do not be a sheep and mindlessly follow what it says. It is fallible. It will always give you an answer, even if it's a made up one. Make sure you can work out the difference - even if it can’t. ■
The Hidden Risks Law Firms Overlook
By Alex Hill, Client Director at Konsileo, specialising in Professional Indemnity and Commercial Insurance for Law Firms
Insurance is not the most exciting part of running a law firm, but it is one of the most important. Too often, firms focus on their Professional Indemnity renewal and overlook other exposures that can cause serious financial and reputational damage.
After more than a decade managing law firms before moving into insurance, I have seen how easily blind spots can creep in — and how costly they can be when left unaddressed.
“Even the best-run firms have risks that sit quietly beneath the surface.”
Cyber
Many firms assume that using secure, cloud-based systems keeps them safe. Yet most cyber incidents now result from phishing or business email compromise rather than complex hacking. A single spoofed email can freeze client accounts and halt operations.
Cyber insurance is about crisis response, not just ransom payments. The best policies include 24/7 incident support, IT forensics and PR help — vital when every minute counts. Executors and trustees
Partners acting as executors or attorneys often don’t realise that claims from those roles fall first on executor insurance, not the firm’s PI policy. Without a separate policy, the liability can land directly on the firm. Executor and inheritance insurance is inexpensive but still overlooked.
Management liability
This protects partners and senior managers against allegations of mismanagement, employment disputes or regulatory investigations. It isn’t about wrongdoing; it’s about having protection when decisions are questioned. Even a diligent COLP or COFA can face scrutiny from the SRA or HMRC.
Probate and unoccupied property
Client
For firms handling estates, standard home insurance rarely applies once a property becomes unoccupied — often after 30 days. Without the right cover, there is no protection for escape of water, theft or vandalism. Specialist property insurance ensures the executor’s duty to protect assets is met.
The office itself
Finally, the humble office policy, often renewed automatically without much thought. But with hybrid working, rising rebuild costs, and shared spaces, it is worth reviewing whether your current policy still fits how you operate. Are laptops covered off-site? Are you insuring the correct sums now that the cost of reinstatement has risen by over 30 per cent in recent years? These small checks can save major headaches later.
A joined-up approach
Insurance should not be a once-a-year admin task. It should be part of your wider risk management strategy. Having worked on both sides — first as a Practice Manager and now as a broker — I understand the pressures law firm leaders face and the value of joined-up protection.
At Konsileo, we help firms make sure their PI, cyber, management liability and office policies all work together, closing the gaps that so often get missed.
If any of these risks sound familiar, or you would like a fresh look before renewal season, I’d be happy to have a conversation. ■
Royal Courts of Justice mural by Banksy on the Queen's Building pic by Ron Frazier on flikr.com courtesy of Wikipedia
Few contemporary artists can command global attention with a single act of subversion quite like Banksy. Anonymous yet omnipresent, his work marries satire, provocation, and accessibility in a way that has made him both beloved and reviled. His recent painting on the Royal Courts of Justice in London is not just another spray-painted stunt; it is an audacious challenge to authority, and one that raises profound questions about art, protest, and the fragility of his carefully preserved anonymity. It was removed less than 24 hours after it first appeared (and its ownership claimed by Banksy in an Instagram post) because the building is listed and must be preserved.
As every lawyer reading this fully knows, the Royal Courts of Justice, with their Gothic spires and imposing façade on the Strand, are an institution that represents the heart of British law. It is where disputes are resolved, civil liberties tested, and judgments handed down. By placing his work here, Banksy elevates graffiti from a fleeting street intervention into a direct confrontation with the machinery of state power. Unlike his murals tucked on the sides of buildings in Bristol or Bethlehem, this one stares straight back at judges, barristers, and litigants. The placement is the message: authority itself is the canvas.
Banksy has spent his career interrogating institutions. His works ridicule consumer culture, criticise war, and highlight inequality. By painting on the Courts, he challenges the very concept of justice—suggesting that the legal system, like political and economic systems, is not neutral but instead often tilted to protect privilege. The choice of subject matter underscores his enduring theme: those who wield power must be held accountable, and art can play the role of resistance.
There is also irony in choosing this venue. The law is the framework within which graffiti is criminalised and punished. To paint directly on the Courts is to bite the hand that would punish you. It forces the
question: is this an act of criminal damage, or a vital cultural commentary? In this tension lies the genius of Banksy’s intervention.
For decades, Banksy’s anonymity has been his greatest armour. His mystique has allowed him to evade prosecution while amplifying his status as an outlaw poet of the spray can. But here he risks drawing the law’s glare onto himself more directly than ever. If the authorities pursued a case— whether for vandalism, criminal damage, or trespass—the Courts could, paradoxically, force Banksy into the very dock he has painted against. Legal proceedings might compel him to reveal his identity, unraveling the carefully guarded secret that underpins his myth.
Would Banksy allow that to happen? Perhaps this possibility is part of the performance. His art has always blurred the line between the act and the image. Painting on the Courts may be less about the aesthetic itself and more about daring the state to respond. If the law presses its case, it risks turning Banksy into a martyr; if it ignores him, it looks weak. Either way, he wins.
CitySolicitor spoke with Simon Fitzpatrick and Fred Clark, partners at Boodle Hatfield, a firm that is recognised as being the experts when it comes to Art and the Law.
Fred says;
“Artists have freedom of expression and Banksy often parodies and has political angles to his work. This is another example of events happening in the public domain that he has made the subject of a high profile artwork. Because of who he is, this artwork has been picked up by media all over the world and so it sends a very powerful message directly from the artist through the power of art. There are legal considerations with street art and, in this case, Banksy did not have permission to paint on the walls so there could be a claim by the Government in relation to criminal damage. I think given Banksy’s high profile and the fact that the paint was easily removed, it seems unlikely that this will happen.”
Does this mean, the Government would be more likely to take a case against a lesser high profile artist?
“I don’t know what evidence there is to prove whose the artwork is beyond Banksy through Pest Control, the authentication arm of what he does, claiming ownership on Instagram. Had it been another person, no one would know who it was so it would be impossible to take any action.
Simon says the fact remains that the artwork has been removed so it would be difficult to prove any damage.
“Banksy always connects his art to a relevant building and that building, in essence, becomes an integral part of the work. That is what he is doing here. This was the obvious building for him to make his point. His location is as relevant as the art itself.”
If Banksy were to be prosecuted, his identity would be exposed. He could not be a party in legal proceedings using his pseudonym.
Clearly far from an ignorant man, Banksy must have been aware that he was putting his anonymity at risk by spraying this piece where he did.
Simon says;
“There is always a risk of him being exposed - especially when he does something as high profile as this. We were involved in a case in 2014 in relation to a Banksy that appeared on a wall in Folkestone which was a leading case around who owns the art in these situations; the landlord or the tenant? These proceedings were very much talked about - and Banksy could have got involved. He lives with these possibilities every time he does something controversial, which is the signature of all he does. This particular instant doesn’t put him any more at risk than any of the others.”
Fred adds;
“I think this is the first time he has painted on a Government building which clearly makes some difference. But public buildings are used for graffiti all the time. Whilst this may have been an embarrassment, it is almost impossible to stop street artists turning up in the middle of the night and spraying paint. This was clearly a calculated risk on his part, but he thrives on publicity and, even if this were to be taken through Courts, it would be positive to his image as a renegade street artist but also would result in his profile becoming even greater. But the other side is, would the Government want to take him though the Court system and thereby bring even more attention to the already embarrassing subject matter?”
his global project of exposing injustice. Both the Courts and the Wall are symbols of control, places where power is concretised in stone. His art punctures their gravitas, reminding us that authority is not beyond question.
Banksy’s intervention at the Courts of Justice demands that we consider the relationship between law and art. Street art is often dismissed as vandalism, yet in this instance the “crime” takes place in one of Britain’s most hallowed legal institutions. If the law acts against Banksy, it risks appearing humourless and authoritarian; if it refrains, it tacitly legitimises the power of art to speak truth to authority. This double bind is part of his brilliance.
There is also a deeper question here: what does it mean if Banksy is unmasked? Would the power of his art diminish if we knew the man behind it? His anonymity functions not just as legal protection but as artistic strategy. It forces audiences to focus on the message rather than the messenger. A court case might collapse this divide, turning Banksy from symbol to individual. Yet one suspects he has anticipated this risk. Indeed, the very threat of exposure sharpens the edge of his work.
“Artists have freedom of expression and Banksy often parodies and has political angles to his work. This is another example of events happening in the public domain that he has made the subject of a high profile artwork. Because of who he is, this artwork has been picked up by media all over the world and so it sends a very powerful message directly from the artist through the power of art.”
This work in London cannot be separated from Banksy’s wider oeuvre, particularly his interventions in Palestine. Over the years, he has used his art to spotlight the human cost of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. His murals on the West Bank barrier are among his most famous: children playing with balloons as though trying to float over the wall, or a girl frisking a soldier—images that invert power and innocence. In Bethlehem, he opened the ‘Walled Off Hotel,’ a functioning guesthouse offering ‘the worst view in the world,’ where every window looks onto the separation wall.
These works are not casual acts of mischief. They are sustained, politically charged interventions into contested spaces. By painting on the Royal Courts, Banksy ties his local critique of British authority to
Banksy’s Palestine pieces show his willingness to use art as direct political protest. His London Court intervention demonstrates the same courage in a domestic context. Both cases highlight his belief that walls, whether physical or institutional, must be challenged. They also reveal the precariousness of dissent in societies where power cloaks itself in legitimacy.
Banksy’s painting on the Royal Courts of Justice is more than graffiti. It is a confrontation between art and authority, between anonymity and exposure. Like his murals in Bethlehem, it unsettles the viewer by placing innocence, justice, and resistance into sharp relief. Whether the law responds with prosecution or silence, the artwork has already succeeded: it has forced a conversation about who holds power, who challenges it, and what the cost of speaking out might be.
In the end, Banksy may never need to stand in Court for his act. But the spectre of that possibility—the idea that the artist could be forced into the very institution he has painted against—gives the piece its true power. It is both a work of art and a provocation, a reminder that even the most guarded institutions are not immune to subversion.
And talking of reminders, whilst the work was very quickly washed away, it could not be washed away completely, leaving behind a faint shadow of what was there before.
A NEW CANVASS
Huyen Phan’s story is an extraordinary one; tragic, sad, poignant, heartbreaking but also inspirational and courageous and an example of how love, art and strength can overcome all.
She describes her life as not having been quite as she hoped or planned, and that is, most definitely, an understatement.
Huyen is Vietnamese living in the UK. She studied here and was all set to go back home when her now husband was offered the opportunity to study for a PhD here and so she remained with him. Having only ever planned to stay for a year while doing her Masters in Leeds, 14 years on she is still in the UK.
In 2012, Huyen was pregnant with her first child, unable to find a job and found herself in a very negative space. She was earning no money. She was so far from home that she felt she didn’t really have anyone she could talk to. Living in a rural environment, she felt very isolated and alone and lacking any cultural stimulation. She had no mother figure in the UK to guide her in how to be a parent. Her mental health began significantly suffering. Then, as a new mum, she found
herself really appreciating the quality and range of products available for babies in the UK. Sharing what she was discovering and being able to buy here with her friends back home who were also new mums, Huyen started to be asked by her friends to send some stuff out to them - and, of course, they repaid her. Vietnam, because of its physical proximity to China, was flooded with Chinese goods for babies and toddlers, and which did not come close to matching the quality and
“Art saved my life. Literally. At the time I met the people from the project, it was the first time I started painting in my whole life. I had never even touched a paintbrush in my entire life. I thought it was a phase, something to help me through a very black time - but it is now my entire life. It is what keeps me going.”
safety standards of the ones Huyen was buying here and sending to her friends. As time went on, word of mouth meant more and more people from back home were asking Huyen to send them stuff. She realised this was an excellent opportunity. She decided to set up her own business acting as a personal shopper for those in Vietnam who wanted to buy quality products. Huyen’s business was greeted with great enthusiasm and started to quickly grow. More than she ever expected.
Married, with a child and a burgeoning business, life finally seemed to become good for Huyen. Her business had given her a sense of being useful - and so her mental health was greatly improved.
Then suddenly everything took an extraordinary turn.
One day, in 2017, Huyen found her bank accounts frozen and was accused of money laundering. Her house was searched and a case was being built against her. From this moment onwards Huyen was wide awake through a very long nightmare that really still has not completely ended.
For years after the house was searched and Huyen was interviewed, absolutely nothing happened. With the threat of an axe being about to fall at any time, Huyen hoped against all odds that it had all been a ghastly mistake, that maybe it would all go away. Sadly, not.
In 2022, Huyen, along with a number of others, her case eventually reached the Courts. After a lengthy trial she was found guilty and sentenced to 18 months, of which she served nine.
Whilst in prison, away from her young family, Huyen’s mental health, unsurprisingly, plummeted. She went through two suicide attempts. There seemed to be no light at the end of the tunnel.
But even when her sentence ended, the horror continued as Huyen was then detained by the Home Office under Immigration Law. Huyen says this was the worst time as she had no release date - it felt worse than a life sentence. Fortunately for her, this horror only lasted a couple of weeks. She was released on bail but had to wear an electronic tag which was only removed after an appeal following a suicide attempt.
Huyen’s mental health issues while in prison are, sadly, indicative of how a lot of women react.
The Prison Reform Trust states on their website https:// prisonreformtrust.org.uk/
‘Women are much more likely than men to self-harm whilst in prison. In 2023, women made up 27% of all self-harm incidents despite making up only 4% of the prison population.’
During her time in prison, Huyen was assigned to work on some murals with Community Arts Projects, (https://www.communityartsprojects. co.uk/) a non profit organisation whose purpose is about ‘enhancing lives and leaving lasting legacies in prisons and secure units. Many prison residents of all risk and skill levels have heralded arts provisions as a key factor in progression. Many have found their voice and recognised their own journeys through their involvement and been able to make positive adjustments to personal everyday life situations.’
This was the light that was to guide Huyen from her very dark thoughts towards building a new life.
“Art saved my life. Literally. At the time I met the people from the project, it was the first time I started painting in my whole life. I had never even touched a paintbrush in my entire life. I thought it was a phase, something to help me through a very black time - but it is now my entire life. It is what keeps me going.”
After Huyen was released, all her paintings were sent to her and now she exhibits. You can see her beautiful work which she created whilst in prison on these pages. One even won the Koestler Arts Platinum Award for portraits in 2024.
Also, while in prison, Huyen wrote what was almost a love letter to her children to try and explain to them why she was absent from their lives. Armed with only five pencils, Huyen created something very beautiful and authentic which she is now trying to get published as a book aimed at 4-7 year olds.
Huyen also mentors, trying to give women who come out of prison the support she herself needed and explaining how art can be an invaluable friend and tool.
Out of darkness, came light.
Huyen sees the positive. She turned it all around - with the help of art. And now she is working to do the same for others.
For more information about Huyen’s art, visit https://hpart86.com
“Also, while in prison, Huyen wrote what was almost a love letter to her children to try and explain to them why she was absent from their lives. Armed with only five pencils, Huyen created something very beautiful and authentic which she is now trying to get published as a book aimed at 4-7 year olds.”
THE VALUE OF JUSTICE FOR ALL
The office of Sheriff in the City of London is one of the oldest continuously held civic offices in England, with origins dating back more than a thousand years. Long before the establishment of a Lord Mayor or a Corporation of London, the Sheriffs were the key royal officers in the City, representing the Crown’s interests, maintaining law and order, and collecting royal revenues. Over time, their powers evolved dramatically, from formidable enforcers of royal authority to important ceremonial and judicial figures supporting the governance of the modern Square Mile.
The title ‘Sheriff’ derives from the Old English scīr-gerefa, meaning “shire-reeve,” the royal official responsible for administering justice and collecting taxes within a county, or shire. In London’s case, the City was granted its own Sheriffs by the Crown in the 12th century, marking a key moment in the City’s growing independence. A charter issued by King Henry I around 1130 gave Londoners the right to elect their own Sheriffs, a privilege unique among English towns at the time and one that reflected the City’s increasing wealth and influence. This right to choose their own law officers effectively meant that Londoners were taking a significant step towards self-government.
The Sheriffs’ early functions were wide-ranging and powerful. They were the principal law enforcement officers of the City, responsible for policing, keeping the peace, managing the local courts, and executing the judgments of those courts. They were also tax collectors on
“The title ‘Sheriff’ derives from the Old English scīr-gerefa, meaning “shire-reeve,” the royal official responsible for administering justice and collecting taxes within a county, or shire.”
behalf of the Crown, ensuring that the City’s dues and rents were paid promptly to the Exchequer. In addition, they supervised the prisons, most notably Newgate, and had powers of arrest, detention, and execution. The Sheriffs’ authority, at this stage, was both administrative and judicial and their role placed them at the heart of civic life in medieval London.
As London’s self-governing institutions grew, particularly after the creation of the office of Lord Mayor in 1189, the Sheriffs’ role gradually changed. While they remained significant officers of the Crown, they also became integral to the governance of the City Corporation. The Lord Mayor could not be installed without first serving as a Sheriff, a tradition that continues to this day. Their duties became more focused on supporting the City’s judicial system and its ceremonial functions, rather than direct law enforcement or taxation.
Today, the two Sheriffs of the City of London (there are always two, elected annually by the Liverymen of the City) serve as important representatives of both the Lord Mayor and the City Corporation. Their principal responsibility is supporting the Lord Mayor as he or she promotes the UK financial & professional services. In addition, being based at the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey, they support the judges and help maintain the smooth running of the Court. They also play a key ceremonial role, attending state and civic events, hosting visiting dignitaries, and representing the City at functions in the UK and abroad.
Although today’s Sheriffs no longer collect taxes or exercise police powers, their office remains a living link to the City’s ancient constitutional history. They embody the continuity of London’s civic independence and its centuries-old tradition of self-governance, public service, and respect for the rule of law, qualities that have made the City of London unique among the world’s great urban centres.
In 2025, Robert Hughes-Penney was one of the two appointed Sherriffs and one of the key projects he has chosen to focus on is the value of justice for all.
“This year is the 10th Anniversary of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The 16th includes peace, justice and strong institutions. According to many studies including a recent one by PWC, this is the least developed. It is a key foundation not just for sustainability but for economic growth, security and prosperity. Also this year is the 800th anniversary of the substantive Magna Carta. I chose to use both of these as the foundations of what we would be focussing on during my term and we developed a series of five events based around the concept of Justice for All. The underlying theme across all the events is why justice for all makes economic sense.”
The events, which kicked off in October 2025 and will continue until June next year, are all being held at the Old Bailey. The website, www. justiceseries.org states that each event will ‘bring together those who are in a position to ask hard questions - and propose evidence based solutions’. Rand Europe have also been commissioned to produce a piece of research for each event.
Robert said one of the subjects he wanted to touch on was to be able to demonstrate the economic benefits of Magna Carta over the past 800 years, a subject he then discovered had been covered by some
academics who won the 2024 Nobel Economics Prize. He contacted them and they collaborated on the first event which was titled 800 years of Justice, Magna Carta to SDG16 and which included a keynote from Lord Neuberger and a panel composed of some very eminent members. This was a philosophical backdrop to the rest of the events.
The next event on the 4th February 2026 is around Justice for the Accused.
“We have all read about the dreadful delays in getting cases heard. I have also visited a lot of prisons. 70% are on remand. This is really clogging the system up. David Gauke who has just done the sentencing review will be a panel member and the keynote will be given by the Master of the Rolls, Sir Geoffrey Vos We want to look at how the system may be improved - primarily through the use of technology. What can AI do in terms of consistencies and efficiencies? You can say Magna Carta and the introduction of juries was a great step forward from summary justice from the lords of the manor. If you follow that logic, could AI enhance 12 people and draw on a bigger pool of community and precedent?”
This is followed by Justice for Victims and Survivors being held on the 23rd March 2026 which focuses primarily on modern day slavery and prevention of violence against women.
“I am struck that there are more people today in slavery than were ever trafficked across the Transatlantic. We call ourselves a civilised world and yet this continues to go on. We look at what has happened in the 10 years since the Modern Slavery Act came into force and how we can improve things.”
The penultimate event is Justice for Prison Leavers on the 18th May 2026.
“About ten years ago I came across the Ban the Box initiative which sought to remove the question on job applications of whether you have a criminal record - which is like saying do you want your CV put in the bin. One in four people in the UK have a criminal record - and whilst some may be for minor things, nonetheless that record could impact future lives. I believe in redemption. In the City we talk about a bond being redeemed after its time has expired, I think by rights a prison term should be redeemed in the same way after the sentence has been served. But in the City only five or six businesses have signed the Ban the Box initiative so clearly something needs to be done. If we are truly interested in pursuing DEI practices, we should surely give an opportunity to ex-prisoners who want to start afresh.”
The final event is Financing Justice being held on the 29th June 2026 which goes full circle to the economic impact of Magna Carta. This is looking at the possibility of melding the financial and legal skills we have in the City and issuing something like a Justice InfraStructure version of the Green Gilt.
It is clear that the value of justice is not just around fairness but also covers economic value too. Our new Sheriff is most definitely going back to the roots of his role in his attempt to administer justice and using creative and innovative ways to make it happen.
A REFLECTION ON THE YEAR
FROM COLIN PASSMORE
It is hard to believe that as the Winter edition of CitySolicitor reaches your inbox, I am close to completing my third year as Chairman of the City of London Law Society.
It is a great honour for me to occupy this position. As a lawyer who is supposedly mostly retired – apart from some occasional consulting and lecturing (on privilege, inevitably) – it is a brilliant way for me to keep in touch with a global leading profession that I continue to find is so interesting and stimulating and where I have made so many good friends and contacts. More than that, however, I really enjoy using my experience as a former City law firm partner to represent the interests of the many CLLS member firms in the City of London and to explain to the many - who simply don’t know - why City law is so important to the UK economy. I very much hope to continue in the role for a few more years yet.
Looking back on 2025, it has been a year of change, challenges but also one of considerable success.
Change
So far as concerns change, we finally saw the incorporation of CLLS in the summer, thanks to the fantastic (but inevitably behind the scenes work of) Matthew Rous. Matthew himself is also part of the change scenery in that his four years as CEO came to an end in the Autumn of this year. One of his final contributions was to help – with many others of course –to move us - together with the Livery Company - into our new premises at Furniture Makers’ Hall in Austin Friars. These are really good premises and are well placed for the City, being close to Liverpool Street, Bank and the Mansion House.
Back to Matthew. I really enjoyed working with him and I would like here to thank him publicly for his contribution to the CLLS. Matthew was a font of calm advice – and, I discovered late on, a fluent Mandarin speaker. Matthew’s successor is now in place. I am very pleased that I was able to persuade Patrick McCann to come out of retirement and succeed Matthew as CEO. Patrick has made a strong start, and he has some exciting plans for CLLS in the New Year, not least, we hope, our first CLLS Conference. More to follow on this in 2026.
– some form of levy ( the soft word for tax) - should be imposed on the profession or at least the City part of it. I don’t yet know where that discussion is going, but it has been overtaken by the Government indications in October – which were still very much in play as this article went to press – that it is looking at imposing new national insurance charges on the profit take of partners who practice within an LLP structure. I shall not rehearse here all the arguments as to why this is a bad idea.: I have done that in a letter that CLLS sent to the Chancellor of the Exchequer (and indeed to the Lord Chancellor) on 31 October 2025. However, I fear it may be the case that we will have lost this argument by the time you read this article. Anyway, it was a privilege to be able to lead the numerous objections to this new tax on behalf of our member law firms by making submissions to the Treasury and the Lord Chancellor as to all the reasons why this proposal just isn’t going to work –and why it flies in the face of Government’s growth agenda and indeed the stated aims of the Lord Chancellor's new English Law Promotion Panel. If these proposals do make it into November’s Budget, then I am confident that it will be shown to be a seriously flawed idea once the Government seeks to put it into practice.
Other areas where change continues to challenge us include the appointment of a new CEO, Sarah Rapson, at the SRA, now that Paul Phillip has retired. I make no secret of the fact that we have we have always enjoyed a good and constructive relationship with the SRA and particularly with Paul. I hope that we can develop a similar relationship with Sarah. The LSB has also seen changes in its senior leadership but we have not yet seen who its new appointees are. Similarly, having developed a good relationship with former solicitor general Lucy Rigby, we also had to go back to the drawing board earlier this year and start to build bridges with new MoJ appointees following Shabana Mahmood‘s appointment to the Home office.
“The biggest challenge that arose this year started, perhaps, with the Justice Select Committee's call for evidence as to whether or not an old idea from 10 years ago – some form of levy ( the soft word for tax) - should be imposed on the profession or at least the City part of it.”
Successes
Our other big change is that we have expanded our team as our remit increases by recruiting Carly Hollingsworth. Part of me feels a little bit bad about Carly’s recruitment, as she was at the Law Society for many years where we got to know her and her colleagues extremely well. And of course we continue to value our relationship with The Law Society with whom we have a great working relationship. But people move, and so I’m really pleased that Carly has agreed to join us. She will be taking up her new position at the beginning of January 2026.
Challenges
There have been many challenges this year. In no particular order, they include getting to grips with an ever-growing debate about ethics in the profession. At the time of writing, we still do not know what the LSB is going to do with its consultation on ethics earlier this year. I have written frequently about the fact that I do not agree with its proposals, set out in its consultation document, for more regulation on this subject. My view continues to be that the starting point is both to improve education on the subject, including ongoing professional development, as well as ensuring that all lawyers are aware of the concerns around ethics within the profession that I fear will have huge press exposure when part two of the Post Office Inquiry reports in a few months time.
Prompted by a debate that we helped to organise at Gray’s Inn in October, where Professor Richard Moorhead gave the main presentation, this is something on which Patrick and I will continue to lead as we go into the New Year: it is not a debate that is going away and like all legal practitioners, we have to demonstrate just how important ethical behaviour is to our national and global standing: it is vital that CLLS makes sure it is at the heart of this on-going debate.
The biggest challenge that arose this year started, perhaps, with the Justice Select Committee's call for evidence as to whether or not an old idea from 10 years ago
Our successes over the course of the year have included submissions by our Revenue Law Committee to HMRC which caused them to retreat on proposed legislation which would, amongst other things, have trampled all over legal professional privilege. Likewise, our Professional Rules and Regulations Committee scored a success when its submissions to the SRA caused it to go back to the drawing board on its proposals about taking on new fining powers. These two examples of many indicate the respect which our specialist committees continue to command.
It would be remiss not to mention successes in the access to justice arena. Here, our fund – SWSQF – passed the £ 1.5m mark this autumn, meaning nearly 150 legal aid workers will be funded through the solicitor qualification process. This is just a great example of how commercial law "does" good, indeed.
Let me end with a final success story. Strictly not a CLLS accomplishment, but we often bask in a little reflected glory. I refer to the continuing growth of City Century and its efforts to get more people into the profession as apprentices and from the most diverse backgrounds. At the end of October, Patrick and many others from City Century hosted an astonishing event at the O2 where over 1,000 budding apprentices came along. Now that is a success story. Other events held in Birmingham, Manchester and Newcastle mean City Century has hosted well over 2,000 emerging lawyers, many of whom we expect to apply for solicitor apprenticeships in September 2026
The CLLS is in good shape. We have a new and dynamic team in place. We continue to be underpinned by the vital work of colleagues Kevin Hart and Liz Thomas. Our membership is at an all-time high – 71 firms but hopefully still growing. And we are in excellent new premises in Furniture Makers’ Hall. And as ever we are brilliantly supported by George Kyrke-Smith at Panterra whose PR advice for me in particular is simply first class.
Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2026.
PS In fact the LLP tax proposal was not in the Budget. Another success?
Stepping Forwards Into The Future And Backwards Into History.
After over three decades housed in College Hill, the CLLS and CLSC moved into their new home this year. To say, ‘new’ is a bit of a misnomer as, located in Austin Friars, this place is steeped in history - like its new inhabitants.
Tucked away behind London Wall, in the quiet lanes of the City, is where you find Austin Friars –one of those corners of London where you can most certainly sense the centuries pressing close. The name gives away its origins: it was once home to an Augustinian friary, founded in the 13th century by friars who came to London to preach, teach, and care for the poor. Back then, this area was part of a bustling medieval city, full of monasteries and religious houses. The Augustinians, or “Austin Friars” as they were called in English, built a grand church and cloisters here, a place of quiet reflection amid the noise and grime of medieval London.
Fast forward a couple of hundred years, and the story takes a dramatic turn. The friary’s most famous neighbour was none other than Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s formidable chief minister. Cromwell, the architect of the English Reformation, bought a large mansion on the friary’s land in the 1530s. From there, he ran the kingdom; drafting laws, dissolving monasteries, and reshaping the very fabric of English religion. His house at Austin Friars was vast and elegant, filled with tapestries, books, and fine furnishings that reflected his new-found power. But, of course, his downfall was just as swift as his rise. After he fell from grace and was executed in 1540, his London mansion was confiscated by the Crown.
After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the friary church was given to London’s Dutch Protestant community, who still worship
there today in the Dutch Church – rebuilt after being destroyed in the Blitz. So, when you visit the new offices you’re walking on ground that has seen monks, ministers, reformers, and revolutionaries, all layered into one of London’s most quietly historic streets.
The new offices are on the top floor of the Furniture Makers' Hall and, again, offer a great combination of old and new. There is a stunning staircase that is as beautiful as it is functional, elegant meeting rooms that evoke a glorious past and workspaces that are light and bright.
This melding of old and new in the building and area beautifully echoes the qualities of the new inhabitants. It is the perfect home.
Pics by LK Catering & Events Ltd.
SUNDAY MORNING SHENANIGANS
How do you like to spend your Sunday mornings? A lie in with a coffee and the Sunday papers? An almond croissant with Laura Kuenssberg? Maybe a stroll to the local cafe for some scrambled eggs?
Probably one thing you haven’t considered is herding sheep over one of the London bridges but, actually, not only is that a thing - but a highly popular one at that as was evidenced when over 100,000 people chose to come out on Sunday 28th September 2025 to watch what is now an annual event.
Few London traditions are as delightfully eccentric as the annual sight of sheep being herded across the capital’s bridges. It is not a protest, nor a pastoral invasion of the city, but rather the continuation of an ancient right that connects the modern metropolis with its medieval past.
But how did it all begin?
The custom belongs to the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, one of the City of London’s historic Livery Companies, whose origins stretch back to the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, when London was both a thriving port and the hub of England’s lucrative wool trade, Freemen of the City
were granted certain privileges. Chief among them was the right to drive their livestock tollfree over London’s bridges into the markets. In practical terms, it saved merchants money; in symbolic terms, it cemented their status as trusted and valued members of the trading community.
Though the commercial necessity of the practice has long since vanished, the privilege remains. Today, Freemen of the City of London – men and women alike – still retain the right to herd sheep over the bridges of the Thames. The annual event, typically staged on Southwark or London Bridge, has become a colourful pageant: Freemen don robes or traditional garb, real sheep are corralled for the occasion, and curious crowds gather to watch this spectacle of woolly history unfold against the backdrop of the Shard and the Square Mile.
Participation is limited to Freemen, but in recent decades, honorary Freemen –often civic leaders, celebrities, or people
recognised for their service – have also been invited to exercise the right. This year (and, indeed, every year certain lucky members of the City of London’s Solicitors’ Company, together with their guests - friends and family - were chosen to take part. Far from being a quaint stunt, the ritual is now a major charitable fundraiser, with proceeds going to causes supported by the Livery Companies. Why sheep? Beyond the sheer charm, the animals are a living reminder of the vital role wool once played in the wealth and power of medieval England. At one point, wool exports underpinned much of the Crown’s income; the very seat of the Lord Speaker in the House of Lords, the Woolsack, is stuffed with it. To drive sheep over a London bridge today is to walk quite literally in the footsteps of history, linking contemporary London with its mercantile roots.
The sight of ewes trotting across a city bridge, flanked by Freemen in full regalia and skyscrapers looming beyond, is at once surreal and deeply London: ancient rights, civic ceremony, and a dash of eccentric pageantry, still alive in the heart of a global financial capital.
Yes this whole experience was bizarre and surreal. But it felt so wonderfully and joyfully English in its eccentricity and tradition. Fortunately, the rain lay off and fun was had by all; from the Master, Virginia Cannon, who came to spectate to some of our member’s children who probably will remember the day all their lives. Definitely this is a once in a lifetime experience and not one I will never forget! ■
Images by Jim Rice
The Lady Mayor’s Show: A Tradition Reimagined
The Lord Mayor’s Show dates back to 1215, when King John granted the City of London the right to elect its own Mayor, provided the Mayor swore loyalty to the Crown. This oath-taking journey to Westminster evolved into a grand civic procession, surviving plagues, fires, and wars for over 800 years, making it the world’s oldest continuous civic parade. Today, it remains a vibrant symbol of London’s heritage, blending pageantry with modern inclusivity.
Once again, the Solicitors’ Company (CLSC) proudly took part in the Lord Mayor’s Show – but this year was truly special. Following 696 illustrious predecessors, the City welcomed its first named “Lady Mayor”, Dame Sue Langley. As a happy coincidence CLSC has Ginny Cannon as its “Lady Master” this year, marking a historic moment for London and the legal profession alike.
The day began bright and early at Nockolds Solicitors, where CLSC participants gathered to prepare for the three-mile procession through the Square Mile under the banner of “City of London Solicitors – The Life & Soul of the Ex Parte”. Streets were closed, flags unfurled, and the City buzzed with anticipation. It was clear from the outset that this was no ordinary Saturday – it was a citywide spectacle.
The Company was represented vibrantly by law firms, sponsor organisations, the City of London Solicitors’ Company, and their Cadets. Together, we showcased the strength and diversity of our profession. Special thanks go to Mahogany Carnival Designs for their incredible costumes, which transformed the day into a riot of colour and creativity. Getting into these elaborate outfits was both a challenge and a delight, with the Mahogany team lending their expertise to ensure every detail
was perfect. For some, it was a first experience with stage makeup, but everyone embraced the spirit of the occasion with enthusiasm. The Company was also thrilled by the amazing BBC television coverage this year, confirming our place as one of the most colourful floats in the whole procession.
This year’s Show was more than a parade – it was a celebration of tradition, progress, and community spirit. As the Master reflected, “I was very proud to lead our spectacular float in the Show, which had a tremendously good reception from the spectators, and immensely grateful to my husband for making this possible by pushing me in a wheelchair all the way around!”
It was an unforgettable day for all involved.
Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the sponsors who made our presence possible: Charles Russell Speechlys LLP, City of London Law Society (CLLS), DLA Piper LLP, Eversheds Sutherland LLP, Fox & Partners LLP, HSF Kramer LLP, Hogan Lovells LLP, Latham & Watkins LLP, Linklaters LLP, Nockolds Solicitors, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP, Osborne Clarke LLP & Squire Patton Boggs LLP. Special gratitude also to Lucy Riley and Naureen Shariff for their unwavering organisation, and Mahogany Carnival Designs for the artistry in costume-making. ■
Celebration of Impact
On Tuesday 7 October, members of the City of London Solicitors’ Company and City of London Law Society (CLLS) gathered for the annual Celebration of Impact, an evening that shone a light on the work carried out by Committees, charitable partners and members throughout the year.
The evening opened with the presentation of several awards, each recognising a different facet of service.
Helen Boniface, Counsel at Hogan Lovells International LLP, was awarded the 2025 Wig & Pen Prize for her leadership and commitment to pro bono work, particularly supporting bereaved families and frontline social care workers. In 2024 alone, she dedicated over 840 hours to pro bono matters, including major inquests like the UK Covid-19 Public Inquiry for care workers. Described during the ceremony as a “model of pro bono leadership”, Helen has built Hogan Lovells’ inquest pro bono practice for over a decade and has used judicial review to achieve pioneering outcomes.
In an unusual departure from tradition, the Distinguished Service Award was awarded to Simon Davis, marking the first time a Senior or Junior Warden has received the honour. The decision, unanimous among the Court, reflected Simon’s pivotal role in leading the Company’s most extensive strategic review to date, alongside years of service.
Jude D’Alesio at A&O Shearman LLP, and a former City Solicitors Horizons alumnus, was awarded the 2025 City of London Solicitors’ Company Prize for his essay on balancing the Rule of Law with economic growth after a highly competitive process.
Sports achievements were also celebrated. The Sports Team of the Year Award went to the Company’s Netball Team, which was largely composed of solicitor apprentices and captained by Shreya Bhogaita. Their performances against more
recognised for his determination to contribute despite injury.
The evening also featured inspiring talks from Master Virginia Cannon, charitable partners and Committee Chairs, highlighting the breadth and impact of the Company and CLLS.
City Solicitors Horizons, now in its tenth year, outlined its work supporting aspiring lawyers from lower socio-economic backgrounds through mentoring, professional development and access to opportunities that build social and cultural capital.
Prisoners Abroad, marking its 50th year, described its vital role supporting British citizens imprisoned overseas, providing welfare grants, legal information and emotional support to families. Rights of Women advised over 3,100 women in the last year, training 1,400 professionals and influencing policy.
Further examples of community impact came from Haringey Law Centre. Supported since 2016, the centre has expanded from assisting 450 clients annually, to over 7,500, including landmark work on housing cases such as the Ayinde case.
The Social Welfare Solicitor Qualification Fund (SWSQF) has raised £1.575 million, enabling 145 aspiring social welfare solicitors to qualify. It was also pleased to announce additional and ongoing support through a bequest from family of the late Stephen Denyer.
Committees also shared highlights of their work, from advising the Home Office and HMRC to contributing to new legislation.
The evening showcased just a fraction of the practical and profound impact delivered across the profession. ■
seasoned opposition were commended. The Sports Person of the Year Award was awarded to Oliver Williams, the youngest member of the Company,
Images by Jampondphotography.com
TCity lawyers, sport and a Sunday well spent: CLSC at the Law Society Festival of Sport
here are fixtures, and then there are traditions.
The Law Society Festival of Sport squarely belongs to the latter. Born in 1975 as the Law Society Sevens, the event has evolved from a single-code rugby jamboree into a multi-sport celebration spanning contact rugby sevens, mixed tag rugby, netball and five-a-side football. It now attracts well over a hundred teams and— more importantly—serves as a rite of passage for generations of young lawyers to meet, compete and build fellowship across the City. Held at the storied Richmond Athletic Ground, the Festival blends serious competition with easy camaraderie, all under the banner of the profession at play.
This year, The City of London Solicitors’ Company leaned into that tradition with renewed purpose and a notably youthful profile. In line with the Company’s “Gateways” strategy—opening doors to apprentices, trainees and early-career solicitors—the CLSC fielded squads in mixed tag rugby, men’s football and netball. The emphasis on inclusion and development was not cosmetic: the netball team was the youngest in the field, featuring five solicitor apprentices and a trainee, many rediscovering competitive sport after a school-era hiatus. The results spoke for themselves. The tag rugby side battled through to the Bowl final after knockout wins over Russell-Cooke and William Fry, while a scratch men’s football team
More telling than scores were the conversations at pitch-side: prospective Freemen met convenors, in-house counsel re-engaged with the Company, and new members found their route into the Livery through sport.
If the Festival is an annual pageant of legal athleticism, it is also an index of community leadership. Here the Company’s inter-livery sports drive—revived with gusto this year—came into its own. Captain of Sports, Luca Cordelli, orchestrated logistics across three squads on the day and, more broadly, has rebuilt a calendar that now ranges from tennis at Queen’s Club to pétanque in Vauxhall, clay shooting and the time-honoured Cask Race in Guildhall Yard. That energy is matched by the practicalities: a sponsor-first funding model meant the Festival ran at no cost to the Company, with generous support from Mayer Brown and Addleshaw Goddard alongside backing from the City of London Law Society and individual donors. It is a prototype for how inter-livery sport can be inclusive, sustainable and mission-aligned.
Individual contributions deserve the limelight. Immediate Past Master Edmund Parker captained the tag rugby squad with trademark verve, doubling as on-the-day problem-solver when injuries struck, and underwriting the new “Parker Cup” to recognise
outstanding sporting contribution. Cordelli’s coordination before, during and after the event is the spine on which the broader initiative rests.
Oliver Williams, as football captain, embodied the volunteer spirit that powers inter-livery competition, rallying a credible side in a tough group with dedicating countless hours to administering our involvement in the tournament and building a base for future fixtures. Together, their efforts turned an entry into impact. The Company recognised Oliver's contribution by awarding him the "Parker Cup". The Company also awarded our netball team its "Team of the Year Award". Both awards were presented at the Company's Celebration of Impact event on 7th October.
The Festival’s wider significance is hard to overstate. It is where the City’s legal community renews itself in the open air. It is where apprentices in particular — often without the university sports networks many peers take for granted—find a team, a tent and a welcome. And it is where the Livery movement is at its best: collegiate, competitive and connective. With the CLSC’s parallel launch of the History Society and a growing year-round sports roster, the Company is showing that tradition and modernity can be teammates, not rivals. On this evidence, the City’s solicitors have rediscovered an old truth: sport is not a sideshow to professional life, but a gateway to it. ■
held their own against league-regulars from Norton Rose Fullbright, Trowers & Hamlins and Dentons.
SISTERS ARE DOING IT FOR THEMSELVES
Continuing from last edition where we reviewed our stay at Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, this time we visit their sister restaurant Gwen.
It’s day two of our Welsh adventure and we are about to go to Gwen for dinner. If anyone hasn’t read the review in the previous issue, last night we visited Ynyshir, had a taste of paradise, stayed over and tonight we are heading to their sister restaurant which only opened three years ago. We start off with a glass of fizz in the Ynyshir bar - ok, truth be told, we are a tad reluctant to leave as surely nothing can live up to what we experienced last night?
The lovely Anand offers to drive us the 15 minute journey to the nearby town of Macllyneth where Gwen is based. Is nothing too much trouble for these people?
As we enter Gwen, it is like walking into a miniature version of Ynyshir. Think the same leather curtains, the same colour scheme, the same sheep skull logo, the same hand carved wooden furniture. And when I say miniature, I mean it. The front half of Gwen is a tiny and intimate wine bar and, as it's Friday night, the locals are spilling out onto the tables and chairs outside to enjoy the Happy Hour spritzes made courtesy of mixologist extraordinaire, Jake Nutt. We had met Jake within ten seconds of entering the place, found out (unsurprisingly) he is Rory’s best friend and is just as incredibly knowledgeable about wines, sakes and all things liquid as Rory himself. But Jake’s passion is the art of mixology. We chatted about espresso martinis and having heard his incredible take on this, promised we would have one at the end of the night - especially when he suggested making it with decaf so our sleep would not be disrupted.
Yes, this is another thing Gwen has in common with its bigger, older sister - everyone is not just super talented but super friendly too. There are
literally just four staff. Jake is helped by a really wonderful girl called Eva and in the kitchen are Corrin and Jamie (more of these two later).
We decided to keep cocktails till the end and began with a glass of sake. Then Jake suggested we try a Welsh Solaris to accompany the first three courses which were being served in addition to the ten course dinner menu tonight. Having devoured all 29 courses last night, being told about three more dishes than anticipated maybe was not the best news.
Or so I thought until they arrived. These three were served consecutively in the bar and were utterly delicious. I went from not thinking I was hungry to practically licking the plates. The broth which started the evening was nectar from the heavens.
After these, we were ushered through (you’ve guessed it) a leather curtain at the back of the wine bar into the kitchen/dining room; another very intimate space which seats only eight people and where the chef, Corrin Harrison
“We are more intimate, more somewhere you can pop into just for a drink, or a bar snack, you can try our famous chicken and waffles for lunch or, of course, you can enjoy the tasting menu. And you can do it all with people you know serving you. It’s like going to dinner at a friend’s place.”
(Gareth’s ex head chef at Ynyshir) and his number two, Jamie Henstone, were preparing the feast that lay ahead.
We sat down next to Eloise and Rich who were sharing our table of four for the evening - and the fun began.
Jake had a wine pairing for each course and as he served it, explained with great enthusiasm the stories behind the very, very unusual and rare wines he had selected for us. Producers only those in the most know would know. Wines in such small quantities that are literally smuggled out of the countries they originate from. Grapes worked with in very different and delicious ways. If I say anymore, someone might have to kill me.
Now. The ten courses. And this is where Ynyshir and Gwen - despite all their many, many similarities - part company. Yes there are the same influences from Japan and Asia but the execution is totally - and deliberately - different.
Corrin is 100% his own man. His own chef. Yes he learnt a lot from his time with Gareth but this is his show, not anybody else’s.
This little sister is most definitely doing it for herself.
And Gareth is completely and utterly behind that. He told me yesterday he has only visited Gwen once to eat - yes he adored it and would love to go back - but he really doesn’t want to in any way influence or shape what Corrin is doing so is genuinely giving him his space.
The food, which was served and explained by Corrin or Jamie themselves was sublime.
As with Ynyshir, we began with a fish section; Devonshire Eel, Balfego Tuna, Chalk Stream Trout, Japanese Madai, then a brief vegetarian interlude with a celeriac, teriyaki, shitake and hazelnut dish which literally blew my mind. Next the meats; tonight quail and guinea fowl. Everything was superlatively delicious. All the dishes had perfect combinations of ingredients which married together to create a whole that was definitely bigger than the sum of its parts - even though each of those parts was meticulously sourced from the very finest producers possible.
Then the desserts. These are Jamie’s domain. Jamie is literally obsessed with all things sweet. And he makes them exquisitely. We started with a Sicilian pistachio that was lemon heaven and enriched with olive oil. Then a strawberry dish that was creamed with Jenkins Milk and flavoured with nettle. Followed by a Mayuya Hatcho Miso with coconut and miso meringue.
The final part of our sublime meal was a showpiece of petits fours displayed so stunningly that it could have held its own in any major art gallery.
Sadly, the beauty that our eyes feasted on was not enough to stop our tastebuds being equally delighted and in a heartbeat those little treasures disappeared.
I was gutted that both nights were over.
Ah but not quite! I had almost forgotten the promised espresso martini.
But I am never likely to forget it again.
Made with light and dark rum, coffee, Jake’s own liqueur and a splash of Pedro Ximenez, this was the ultimate finale to end such a crazily wonderful evening.
I didn’t think anything could follow Ynyshir. Gwen more than matched the challenge in its own completely different and unique way - yet both evenings felt like one whole unforgettable and totally complete experience.
As Corrin had been so busy cooking (if, indeed, the art this man produces can be simply called cooking) all evening, I was sad not to have been able to talk with him.
But Ynyshir and Gwen are all about making dreams come true and you could have knocked me over with a feather when Corrin said he was driving us back to Ynyshir!
When I asked Corrin about what it is that makes Gwen so very special, like Gareth, he is so quick to praise others, not just himself.
If Ynyshir is about seeing the very ultimate performance and spectacle, Gwen is the polar opposite, in that you are very much a part of the show yourself.
“At Gwen all the guards are down. Everyone gets a real insight into the people that we truly are. Ynyshir is AMAZING but it's not an everyday
place; it's super special. We are more intimate, more somewhere you can pop into just for a drink, or a bar snack, you can try our famous chicken and waffles for lunch or, of course, you can enjoy the tasting menu. And you can do it all with people you know serving you. It’s like going to dinner at a friend’s place.”
A friend who has the most stylish home imaginable and who can cook the most divine food!
Before Ynyshir and Gwen, Corrin worked in London at The Typing Room. Corrin is a Hackney boy so he grew up with the best food on his doorstep - it is in his blood, it is inevitable he would have his own kitchen one day - and at Gwen, he has created the very best place for him to showcase his extraordinary skills.
We were back to the torchlit path way too quickly it felt like. We said goodbye to Corrin but I knew Paul and I would be back to eat his food again one day soon. Tonight had most definitely not been a let down after last night but the most perfect accompaniment.
Ynyshir and Gwen are truly in a league of their own, the same but different.
It had been the most perfect 48 hours. Back in our room, I think we both dreamt of the next time we could repeat it all. ■
Gwen Restaurant and Winebar
21 Heol Maengwyn, Machynlleth
SY20 8EB
WALES
https://gwenrestaurant.co.uk/
SiP
Welcome To SIP, our new regular column devoted to every delicious thing we can sip; wines, cocktails and non alcoholic delights.
Written by our journalist Maroulla Paul who is a self confessed nerd when it comes to wines and spirits. Maroulla has WSET Wines and Spirits Level 3, WSET Sake Level 1 and Capstone Level 1 (so far!)
LET THE sheep DRINK champagne
(We’ll stick to the good stuff)
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock of late, you will be well aware that the reign of champagne is not just under threat but over. English sparkling wines are taking the fizz out of the French stuff by beating them hand over fist in blind tastings.
WHAT TO DRINK
“Dermot tells how in the wine world, there is a choice where to position yourself. Do you want to be a high volume, high profit winery? Or a more boutique operation and achieve a level of being the best?”
And the leader of this charge is Dermot Sugrue. Dermot is the ultimate winemaker. He combines science with art to create the extraordinary. Every sip tells you immediately just what a genius this man is. But beyond making world class wines, Sugrue wines also find a way into our souls with their story telling. But let’s begin with Dermot’s own story. His passion began in his teens. His dad had bought a home brewing beer kit which he miserably failed to do well so Dermot took over. A year later when he was 16, he was given a bottle of homemade elderberry port and loved it so much, turned his attention from making beer to making wine. He quickly became hooked and went to help out with a couple of vintages in Bordeaux working at the highest level with one of the most prestigious Pomerol producers, Chateau L’Eglise Clinet and also with Bordeaux’s oldest winery, Chateau Leoville Barton. That was enough to make him determine that this was his calling and he says that, indeed, Bordeaux is where he expected to one day be making wine himself. But, on returning to the UK, he very quickly realised what was beginning to happen here and that changed his thinking. From 2003-2006, Dermot worked with what was then the UK’s leading sparkling wine producer, Nyetimber who, like the Bordeaux producers Dermot was used to, also set themselves the most exacting standards. Dermot achieved head winemaker status there but still harboured a dream to have his own label.
Dermot tells how in the wine world, there is a choice where to position yourself. Do you want to be a high volume, high profit winery? Or a more boutique operation and achieve a level of being the best? It
is clear which path Dermot went down. He knew he wanted to have his own label, his own brand - and nothing was going to stop him. What Dermot lacked in having a lot of money behind him, he more than made up for by his entrepreneurial drive - and his natural creativity. He saw no barriers.
The first step was when he planted the vineyard at Storrington Priory and within three years he had access to fruit - and because, by then, he had joined forces with Wiston, he also had access to equipment to turn his fruit into his own wine.
He quotes Bob Dylan;
“I make shoes for everyone, including you, yet still I go barefoot.”
The Storrington vineyard was Dermot’s first opportunity to no longer go barefoot. To be able to create his own wine as opposed to what he had always done - creating wine for others. Not that he stopped the latter at this point. He spearheaded and masterminded the Wiston brand, not to mention making wine for a host of other people.
Dermot was asked to set up the Storrington vineyard by Father Paul McMahon. Dermot agreed - and even offered to make the priests wine - but in return asked that a small percentage of the grapes be used to make wine for himself. The vines were a great success producing the most delicious grapes. So delicious in fact that in 2008, which should have been the first vintage, the birds ate them all.
“That’s the trouble with dreams” Father Paul philosophically said.
But Dermot is a winemaker not a philosopher and he persisted and in 2009 protected the grapes from the birds and went on to make what was to become a highly acclaimed sparkling wine which he named The Trouble With Dreams - of course!
“I had an amazing 16 years at Wiston from 2008 until 2022. I started the project from scratch and I was given a long leash. We turned a turkey abattoir into the UK’s number 1 winery within a decade. I learnt a hell of a lot about building and running a business, as well as dealing with clients. But, most importantly, making 25 to 30 cuvees a year probably also made me the most experienced winemaker in the UK.”
As of 2023, Dermot decided that it was time to focus on one thing and one thing alone. Sugrue. He set up his own winery in the South Downs with his wife, Ana, who is a highly regarded winemaker in her own right having worked in Peru, California, Europe and Australia specialising in still wine making and also lecturing in the subject.
I had the privilege of visiting Sugrue in Wivelsfield Green not just once but twice this year.
First, for a tasting which I can honestly say was the most divine tasting I have ever experienced - and, trust me, I have been to many and all over the world. The entire afternoon was magical. The setting is sublime. sThe passion of everyone sings through. Whilst the vineyard and winery are small compared with the Gusbournes and Rathfinnys of this world, the creativity, the professionalism and the dedication was everywhere. Hosting these tastings seemed to be more of a joy than a job as our hosts, Andrew and
Callum, (Dermot was sleeping as he had personally been bottling for days on end and was utterly exhausted) excitedly shared with us a selection of Sugrue’s finest. I say that but, honestly, everything from Sugrue is the finest. A couple of years ago, the winery was just a tractor barn but now it houses what I believe to be among the finest winemaking in the entire world.
My next visit was to one of their special Sunday lunches where guest chefs come and cook up a storm in the winery and their food is paired with the delicious Sugrue wines. The chefs on this occasion were Mark Hix and Henry Harris. The food was utterly sublime - but the stars of the show were the wines of course.
Another lunch this year - which sadly I did not attendwas cooked by Angela Hartnett and her husband, Neil Borthwick, the head chef of the French House in Soho. Angela clearly loved it as much as I do as I see she has now joined Sugrue as an investor.
I cannot recommend these tastings and pop up lunches highly enough. But get yourselves organised. Sign up for Sugrue’s newsletter and for email updates and as soon as booking windows open, bag some tickets. They sell like hotcakes. The entire year’s calendar of monthly Friday afternoon tastings sold out in 58 minutes this year. You have been warned. And if you thought English wines are only about bubbles, think again because this man’s stills are equally delicious. Dermot says he sees this as being his focus for the future. Having got all the accolades for the sparklings, his plan is to dominate still wine next.
“We know now that Essex is the premium place to grow grapes for red wine in the UK. It is the warmest and the driest.”
Dermot’s red is a Pinot Noir and his white a Chardonnay called Bonkers. I had the absolute joy of sampling their second batch when I visited and I must tell you that if you can get your hands on some, you will be in for the biggest treat imaginable.
Then there is the Dear Noodles Rose. Now I am not generally a Rose fan - Whispering Angel turns me into a Screaming Devil asking “why???” and the darker Zinfandels are like cough syrup gone wrong. But this - oh this - is divine. Unlike other roses, it is neither insipidly pale in colour or taste nor is it dark and overpoweringly cloying. It is perfect.
Dear Noodles is a love letter to Dermot’s late dog, Noodles, who was at his side when Dermot set up Sugrue. At the lunch I attended, Dermot read out an actual letter he wrote to his beloved dog. Needless to say there was not a dry eye in the house. On buying a bottle of the wine, you also get a copy of the letter. This serves as the label almost as there is no printed label on the bottle itself. Innovative, creative, authentic.
One could argue that all of Dermot’s wines are love letters - one sparkling is dedicated to his late brother, Boz. What all of the wines have in common is that they are most definitely made with the utmost love. Does Dermot plan on staying in the UK or does he still dream of winemaking in Bordeaux?
“I plan to do some collaborations in Europe. I am part of a brilliant group of winemakers. We are a tight knit community and a breeding ground for future projects. But Sugrue here in the UK remains my biggest priority. I want to see it flourish even more.”
That is indeed a relief to hear. This man is a national treasure and a huge asset. We most definitely want to keep him close.
To find out more about Sugrue, to order wines for Christmas, New Year or just because, to sign up for info about future tastings and pop up lunches visit https://www.sugruesouthdowns.com
Also we have an incredible offer just for City Solicitor. Sugrue are happy to offer our readers a 15% discount off any bottles on the website. (Please note that this doesn't include products which already have a discount applied e.g. cases with 10% off. However, you can of course add six bottles to your basket and apply the 15% discount.) This will be valid until 31/1/2026. Please use CODE CITYSOLICITOR ■
“We know now that Essex is the premium place to grow grapes for red wine in the UK. It is the warmest and the driest.”
From precedent libraries to prompts The next step for legal drafting
Almost every lawyer maintains a Precedent Library, collections of letters, documents, and draft orders that serve as reliable templates for routine legal tasks. Whether housed centrally
Almost every lawyer maintains a Precedent Library, collections of letters, documents, and draft orders that serve as reliable templates for routine legal tasks. Whether housed centrally within a firm or kept individually by lawyers, precedent banks save time, promote consistency, and ensure that essential information is communicated accurately. They prevent lawyers from having to repeatedly craft the same content from scratch.
save time, promote consistency, and ensure that essential information is communicated accurately. They prevent lawyers from having to repeatedly craft the same content from scratch.
Yet while precedents are widely used, most lawyers do not yet have something that may soon become equally indispensable: a bank of prompts for automated legal drafting. A prompt is a
Yet while precedents are widely used, most lawyers do not yet have something that may soon become equally indispensable: a bank of prompts for automated legal drafting. A prompt is a set of instructions given to artificial intelligence, essentially a command or description designed to generate a specific output such as a document, letter, or analysis. Writing a good prompt is much like instructing a trainee solicitor: the instructions must be clear, unambiguous, and thorough. The more detail the prompt contains, the higher the quality of the result. These prompts often include instructions that might seem obvious, such as avoiding Americanised spellings, but are crucial for consistent outputs.
such as a document, letter, or analysis. Writing a good prompt is much like instructing a trainee solicitor: the instructions must be clear, unambiguous, and thorough. The more detail the prompt contains, the higher the quality of the result. These prompts often include instructions that might seem obvious, such as avoiding Americanised spellings, but are crucial for consistent outputs.
My recent move from private practice to a role with LEAP, a legal technology company specialising in case management software, has given me a new perspective on both precedents and prompts. As Head of Family Law, I now help shape the software to better support family lawyers. Leaving practice meant leaving behind 18 years’ worth of carefully curated precedents; I was hardly going to commit intellectual property theft to take them with me. Instead, I now work closely with LEAP’s precedent libraries, which contain a wide range of template letters and documents designed to streamline legal workflows.
My recent move from private practice to a role with LEAP, a legal technology company specialising in case management software, has given me a new perspective on both precedents and prompts. As Head of Family Law, I now help shape the software to better support family lawyers. Leaving practice meant leaving behind 18 years’ worth of carefully curated precedents; I was hardly going to commit intellectual property theft to take them with me. Instead, I now work closely with LEAP’s precedent libraries, which contain a wide range of template letters and documents designed to
In exploring these templates, I have begun adapting and creating precedents that offer enhanced automation. One example is a letter of instruction to an actuary, which not only pulls through key case details but also uses LEAP’s Word Add-in to offer dynamic questions. The lawyer indicates, for instance, whether a report is ordered or agreed, and the remainder of the letter changes automatically. This creates a more sophisticated tool than a static template, one that reduces repetitive drafting and accelerates routine tasks.
But this still raises an obvious question: what if technology could answer those questions itself by analysing information within the case file? This is where prompts rather than precedents begin to show their potential.
In exploring these templates, I have begun adapting and creating letter of instruction to an actuary, which not only pulls through questions. The lawyer indicates, for instance, whether a report is ordered or agreed, and the remainder of the letter changes automatically. This creates a more sophisticated tool than a static template, one that reduces repetitive drafting and accelerates routine tasks.
When I joined LEAP, I had limited experience with AI prompting. My early use of ChatGPT had been purely personal, such as asking it for the correct reading order of John le Carré’s George Smiley novels. The idea of drafting complex legal instructions for AI was
But this still raises an obvious question: what if technology could answer those questions itself by analysing information within the show their potential.
When I joined LEAP, I had limited experience with AI prompting. My early use of ChatGPT had been purely personal, such as asking
daunting; it seemed faster simply to type the letters myself. Yet the capability of AI systems to read and interpret case data changes that calculation. In theory, AI could identify pensions, values, dates, or factual circumstances directly from the matter, eliminating the need for manual data entry. A precedent could therefore evolve into a prompt, an automated set of rules that instructs AI on how to assemble the necessary document.
it for the correct reading order of John le Carré’s George Smiley novels. The idea of drafting complex legal instructions for AI was daunting; it seemed faster simply to type the letters myself. Yet the capability of AI systems to read and interpret case data changes that calculation. In theory, AI could identify pensions, values, dates, or factual circumstances directly from the matter, eliminating the need for manual data entry. A precedent could therefore evolve into a prompt, an automated set of rules that instructs AI on how to assemble the necessary document.
Once created, a prompt could be reused just like a precedent. It could tell the AI to consider the Pensions Advisory Group guidance, relevant Practice Directions, or even the terms of a specific court order. It could dictate formatting, tone, style, and legal framing. After the prompt runs within the secure environment of the case management system, the lawyer would receive a completed draft ready for review.
Once created, a prompt could be reused just like a precedent. It could tell the AI to consider the Pensions Advisory Group guidance, order. It could dictate formatting, tone, style, and legal framing. After the prompt runs within the secure environment of the case management system, the lawyer would receive a completed draft ready for review.
Another example is the preparation of briefs to counsel. Traditional precedents can pull basic information such as names,
Another example is the preparation of briefs to counsel. Traditional precedents can pull basic information such as names, dates of birth, or case identifiers. But a prompt could go much further. It could analyse the matter file, summarise the children’s arrangements, extract the current issues in dispute, and compile the factual background. This would not replace the lawyer’s judgement, but it would provide a first draft similar to the one a trainee might prepare on their first day, only produced in seconds rather than an hour.
arrangements, extract the current issues in dispute, and compile the factual background. This would not replace the lawyer’s
rather than an hour.
Artificial Intelligence is already reshaping legal practice, whether lawyers embrace it or not. The familiar saying captures the trend well: “AI won’t replace lawyers, but a lawyer using AI will.” Replacing or supplementing precedents with prompts is one way to harness the benefits of AI while preserving the lawyer’s expertise, oversight, and control. Just as precedents did not replace lawyers, prompts will not either. Instead, they represent a natural evolution in how we create, structure, and automate legal drafting in an increasingly digital profession.
lawyers embrace it or not. The familiar saying captures the trend well: “AI won’t replace lawyers, but a lawyer using AI will.” Replacing or supplementing precedents with prompts is one way to harness
Read our White Paper in six simple steps
and control. Just as precedents did not replace lawyers, prompts will not either. Instead, they represent a natural evolution in how we create, structure, and automate legal drafting in an increasingly
Katie Phillips Head of Family Law in LEAP Verticals
Katie Phillips Head of Family Law in LEAP Verticals
Click go the shears, boys…
The author ventures on an odyssey through the surprising origins and history of a now defunct iconic British automaker
Ever wondered which eponymous automotive marque connects the inventor of the world's first commercially successful sheep shearing machinery with one of London’s best loved and most consistently profitable restaurants and a leading UK plumbing merchant? The answer is of course Wolseley, a name synonymous with the dawn of the British motor industry.
The company’s first offering was a revolutionary three wheeled vehicle designed by Herbert Austin in 1895, and its last the less well received 1975 saloon, nicknamed by a dwindling band of enthusiasts as ‘the Wedge’ due to its distinctive aerodynamic body styling. Introduced in the March of that year, it was discontinued just seven months later, a victim of by then owner British Leyland's financial woes and their attempt to cut costs by streamlining any closely overlapping models. Only those who endured the dubious fashions of the 1970’s could understand the rationale behind replacing a Wolseley with an Austin Princess.
The brand may well have met an ignominious end, yet few can match its story. Frederick York Wolseley was born in County Dublin in 1837, to an aristocratic military family, though his talent lay in the field of invention, not battle. By 1854 he had travelled to Melbourne to work as a 'Jackaroo' – a greenhorn inexperienced in bush life – at his brother-in-law’s sheep station.
When his sister was later widowed, he took over as manager and set about developing his idea for a sheep shearing machine that would clip wool at its full length and in a single fleece, thereby tripling its value. Following many years of trial and error, the Wolseley Sheep Shearing Machine Company was finally founded in 1887, and fellow emigre Herbert Austin employed as its chief engineer. With patents for the prototype held on a continent boasting some 400 million sheep, the business flourished before expanding to London and beyond.
Such was the impact of this radical industrialisation of Australian rural life, it prompted poets and musicians to capture the spirit of what quickly became a bygone art, most famously in the anonymous Australian folk song 'Click Go the Shears, Boys', sung to the tune of ‘Ring the Bell Watchman’, an old American Civil War ditty. Over time, the song became something of an Australian anthem, recorded by numerous artists including American singer and actor Burl Ives and even Australia's sweetheart Olivia Newton-John.
Following Wolseley’s resignation from the business in 1894 due to ill health, Austin expanded into car manufacture, initially as a way to stabilise inherent seasonal fluctuations in the sheep trade, naming the brand after his old friend. That business was eventually sold, along with Austin himself, to engineering firm Vickers, who purchased a three and a half acre factory site in Birmingham from which to run the new venture. Five successful years later, the Austin Motor Car Company was born, and the era of the Wolseley, Austin 7 and a broader and booming British car industry had well and truly begun.
Subsequent years saw a six-fold increase in the size of Austin's factory, international expansion and a diversification into commercial vehicles, later giving way to armoured cars, munitions and aircraft components when the world was plunged into war. Post-war, and following further expansion, the company became the biggest motor manufacturer in Britain, building 12,000 cars in 1921. By the mid 1920's sales were slowing, however, and a failed venture into motor racing forced the sale of Wolseley's Grade II* listed Piccadilly headquarters to Barclays Bank. The company was eventually auctioned due to bankruptcy in 1927, with Herbert Austin outbid by the soon to be Lord Nuffield, founder of Morris Motors. What followed though, became what is recognised as the company’s golden era – typified by best-selling models including the Hornet, Viper and Wasp.
By the late 1930's, Wolseley cars had been reenvisioned based on Morris designs but with slightly revised styling and upmarket interior trim, primarily to save costs through rationalisation and shared manufacturing.
By the early 1950's, all models had become 'badge engineered' versions of other cars within what was by then British Motor Company's stable, but remained instantly recognisable to the public as the police cars of post-war Britain, featuring heavily in British films, television shows, and news footage of the era. The late 1970's saw the birth of the ill-fated British Leyland, and the death of the brand followed soon after.
And what became of the Wolseley Sheep Shearing Machine Company? Possibly spurred on by an embarrassingly poor business decision, diversification into other areas followed, with the current incarnation of the Wolseley Group being the UK's leading specialist and nationwide distributor of plumbing, heating, cooling and infrastructure products.
And the opening of the Wolseley restaurant in Piccadilly in 2003? Barclays Bank remained in occupation until the turn of the millennia, when Chris Corbin and Jeremy King acquired and reinvented the space as an all-day café in the grand European style, adopting the old company name and winning numerous accolades.
And yet it is Wolseley cars that remain lodged in the British psyche of certain generations, a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era evoking images of post-war austerity that gave way to the solid, dependable values of mid-20th-century professional life and public service. All thanks to Herbert Austin’s decision to follow the cars, not the sheep.
Joel Leigh is the motoring correspondent of City Solicitor and a Partner at Howard Kennedy LLP
The Hidden Cost of Standing Still: Why Law Firms Can’t Afford “Business as Usual”
In today’s legal market, tradition alone won’t keep your firm competitive. Many solicitors are unknowingly paying a steep price for clinging to outdated systems—lost time, frustrated staff, and missed opportunities. The truth? “Business as usual” is costing far more than change ever will.
Outdated Systems Drain More Than Just Time
Every hour spent wrestling with clunky software is an hour not spent serving clients or bringing in new business. Across the UK, lawyers still report spending the bulk of their working day on non-billable tasks. The result? Burnt-out teams, dissatisfied clients, and firms falling behind.
Your Staff Deserve Better Tools
The tools you give your people directly impact their job satisfaction. Legacy systems that crash, lag, or make simple processes unnecessarily complex don’t just slow things down—they chip away at morale. Cloud-based legal practice management systems, on the other hand, make collaboration seamless, improve wellbeing, and free up lawyers to focus on meaningful work.
The Risk You Can’t See: Compliance and Security
If your software hasn’t had a major update in years, you’re at risk. GDPR compliance, data security, and operational resilience aren’t “nice-to-haves”—they’re the bare minimum clients expect. Modern solutions like Clio are built with these needs in mind, offering peace of mind alongside performance.
Why Forward-Thinking Firms Are Switching to Clio
For firms in Hampshire, the choice is simple: continue absorbing the hidden costs of outdated technology, or invest in a platform designed for modern legal practice. With Clio, firms gain:
• Efficiency at scale – Automate routine tasks and reclaim billable hours.
• Happier teams – Empower staff with intuitive, reliable software.
• Future-proof security – Stay compliant, safe, and resilient.
• Better client service – Onboard clients quickly and communicate seamlessly.
The Cost of Doing Nothing
Ask yourself: How much is inefficiency already costing your firm? Slower onboarding? Errors creeping in? Time wasted juggling multiple tools?
When you put numbers against these inefficiencies, the real expense becomes clear. And it’s usually far greater than the investment in modern software.
The firms thriving today aren’t necessarily the biggest, they’re the ones willing to adapt. If you’re ready to see what smarter systems could mean for your practice, book a quick walkthrough of Clio and see how it can help your firm work smarter, not harder. ■
Sarah Murphy, General Manager of Clio EMEA
DID YOU KNOW?
The Göring family name is now indelibly associated with Hermann Göring. Hermann was one of the leading lights of the National Socialist movement, holding some of the highest offices of state in Nazi Germany. That is, until the Third Reich collapsed and disintegrated in the face of Allied military advances. Hermann would go from Reichs Huntsmaster to being hunted by those charged with rounding up senior Nazis. Once found, he was sent to Nuremburg for trial.
The Trial of the Major War Criminals before the International Military Tribunal at Nuremburg brought together two dozen goldfansen (or ‘golden pheasants’ - a derogatory term for the Nazi elite inspired by their brown and red uniforms draped with golden braid).
But the hangman was cheated of the chance to break the neck of the most glittering of these ‘golden pheasants’ when Hermann Göring committed suicide by consuming cyanide on the night preceding his execution. Göring had been, up to this point, the most senior surviving member of the ruling clique.
But this is not the story of Hermann Göring. It is the story of Albert Göring – the good brother who defied the Nazi regime and may one day be honoured at the Israeli Yad Vashem memorial as one of the ‘righteous amongst the gentiles’.
Albert had shared Hermann’s privileged upbringing. Albert was one of five children of Heinrich and Franziska Göring. Because their father spent much of his time abroad, they were largely brought up with their godfather of Jewish heritage, Ritter Hermann von Epenstein, in his Veldenstein and Mauterndorf castles.
Both brothers would develop strong convictions, but Albert grew to become a devout Catholic to whom antisemitism was alien. Albert developed a profound antipathy to Nazism, openly criticising Hitler from the regime's earliest days. As Hermann orchestrated terror, Albert began a career of clandestine rescue.
After the 1938 Anschluss, upon witnessing SS officers forcing Jewish women to scrub the streets of Vienna, he famously took off his coat and began scrubbing alongside them. The officer in charge, aghast at the spectacle of the Reichsmarschall’s brother in such a position, ordered everyone to disperse.
He used his influence to secure the release of his Jewish former boss, the film producer Oskar Pilzer, and facilitated his family’s escape. His familial connection to one of the Third Reich’s most powerful figures gave him a unique, if perilous, ability to resist from within. Appointed export director at the Škoda Works in occupied Czechoslovakia, Albert escalated his efforts. He encouraged acts of sabotage, turning a blind eye to production delays that hampered the German war effort and reportedly passing intelligence to the Czech resistance. His most audacious methods involved directly leveraging his brother’s authority. He repeatedly forged Hermann’s signature on transit papers to allow dissidents to escape.
In a remarkable display of courage, he would send trucks to concentration camps with official requests for labourers, then drive the prisoners to isolated areas and set them free. Though he faced at least four Gestapo arrest warrants, Hermann, in a complex display of fraternal loyalty, consistently intervened to save him.
After the war, the name that had been his shield became his curse. Albert was arrested and interrogated, first during the Nuremberg Trials and later in Czechoslovakia. In his cell, he compiled a list of 34 prominent people he had saved. He was freed only after widespread and spontaneous testimony from those he had helped, including a serendipitous moment when one of his American interrogators realised Albert had saved his aunt.
Yet exoneration did not bring peace. Shunned in post-war Germany, he was unable to find work and fell into poverty and depression, living in a modest flat far from the baronial splendour of his childhood. He died in obscurity in 1966, his heroism publicly unacknowledged.
In recent decades, his story has been unearthed by historians, prompting calls for his recognition at Israel’s Yad Vashem memorial as one of the ‘Righteous Among the Nations’. To date, that honour has been withheld. Yad Vashem’s committee, bound by strict evidentiary rules, has concluded that while there are strong indications of his positive actions, there is insufficient primary-source proof that he took “extraordinary risks” to save Jews from deportation and death.
Albert Göring remains a quiet hero, outside of the official pantheon, and a powerful testament that a person’s moral worth is defined not by lineage, but by choice. ■
This article was provided courtesy of Ian Chapman-Curry, Legal Director in the pensions team at Gowling WLG.and host of the Almost History podcast.
www.almosthistorypodcast.com
Dye & Durham Enhances AML Compliance with Credas Integration in its Unity Practice Management
Dye & Durham UK, one of the UK’s leading legal technology providers, has announced the integration of a new suite of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) tools into its Unity Practice Management platform, powered by market-leading digital ID provider Credas.
This launch comes at a crucial time, as the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) continues to issue significant five-figure fines for non-compliance of AML regulations – with one firm receiving a penalty of £114,000 in July this year*. For legal practices, efficient, auditable onboarding and risk checks are no longer optional but are essential.
With the Credas integration, firms can now trigger advanced compliance checks on a Pay-As-You-Go basis directly within Unity, streamlining the entire process while ensuring real time results, full audit trails and secure document handling.
The offering includes:
• Biometric ID & Instant AML Check: Combines standard AML checks with facial recognition, liveness detection and NFC-based document verification.
• Safe Harbour Checks (Vendor & Purchaser): Specifically designed to meet Land Registry’s Safe Harbour standards.
• Source of Funds Verification: Dynamic questionnaires and open banking integration for thorough yet efficient due diligence.
Results are returned and stored within the Unity case file, supporting compliance, audit-readiness and risk mitigation.
Confirms Chris Shingler, Technical Product Manager at Dye & Durham UK:
“The reality is that older ID checking systems just aren’t fit for today’s threats, and that’s before you even consider how cumbersome they are to manage. Our new Credas integration means firms can trigger checks with the data they already hold, see live progress and store every result securely, all without ever leaving Unity.
“From a compliance point of view, it’s a game changer. The SRA is cracking down hard and we’re reading news headlines reporting record fines every week. Our integration gives firms the assurance that they’re on top of their AML duties, with no manual tracking, no risk of missing documentation and everything in one place.”
Credas already supports over 350,000 AML checks every month, is involved in more than half of all UK property transactions and boasts a 4.6-star independent review rating.
Archie Barnett, Manager of the Client Delivery Team at Dye & Durham UK added: “This isn’t just about convenience: it’s about protecting your firm, your clients and your reputation from financial crime and non-compliance. All of Dye & Durham’s customers can now benefit from the same secure, scalable compliance infrastructure as some of the biggest names in the sector.”
For more information on Dye & Durham UK, visit: www.dyedurham.co.uk ■
