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Dear Honoured Member,
The 13th February 2025 was a night to remember in the Birmingham legal calendar. The ICC played host to our annual Legal Awards, and what a celebration it was! The talent in the West Midlands and Birmingham legal sector was on full display, and you did not disappoint.
The atmosphere was electric. I even caught some of our sponsors sneaking in a little dance before stepping on stage to present awards—yes, we saw you! And yes, my Dad dancing was out in full force (no regrets). I was so proud to stand in that room, acknowledging the nominees, the shortlisted, and, of course, the winners. Congratulations to you all—you’ve truly earned it.
A personal highlight for me was presenting the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Claire Darley of FBC Manby Bowdler. Claire’s dedication to our Law Society and the Family Law Committee has been unwavering, all without seeking recognition. Claire embodies the quiet strength that keeps our legal community thriving. And to those whose hard work and dedication often go unnoticed—consider this your moment of recognition. We see you, we appreciate you, and we value everything you do for our profession.
A huge thank you to our sponsors—your continued support makes nights like this possible. And to our charities of the year, She Beasts and the ManKind Initiative—your work reminds us why giving back matters.
Now, about the footwear… despite some feedback that Converse might not be the ideal choice for a President. I
stand by my decision. I’d love to say I’ll stop taking fashion advice from Rihanna, but my gold sparkly pair are already on order. The Converse weren’t just a style statement— they were a symbol. No, I’m not Batman, and no, a pair of trainers won’t change the world. But they represent a shift.
The legal community is steeped in tradition—some good, some overdue for change. Change is uncomfortable, even scary, but it’s also necessary. If I can rock a pair of Converse at a formal event and survive the scrutiny of Spider-Man’s dad (watching Spider-Man will never be the same), you can stand up for change too. It doesn’t have to be dramatic—no one’s asking you to wear Crocs to a black-tie event (surely that’s a violation of the Geneva Convention it’s got to be)—but standing up for progress, even in small ways, matters.
There will be “feedback.” Who cares? Change isn’t easy, but the best traditions are the ones that adapt and grow. Let’s take responsibility for the future of our legal sector— supporting, embracing, and encouraging those who push for better and more inclusive practices. If I leave one legacy this year, I hope it’s this: the status quo isn’t always the best way forward.
We set the bar high with a live brass band at the Legal Awards—but don’t worry, we’re not done yet. The Alternative Dinner on 16th May 2025 at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel promises to be a night like no other. Forget what you think you know about formal dinners— we’ve got a surprise guest lined up, and you won’t want to miss it. Get your tickets now; this one will sell out fast.
And then there’s the President’s Dinner on 18th September 2025 at the Grand Hotel. This won’t be a night about me or my achievements—because any success our Law Society has had this year is down to you all. Expect elegance but also expect something different. This year, the President’s Dinner is about celebrating you—our community, our achievements, and the people who make it all happen. It’s also open to partners and friends— because it’s time to show your loved ones why you do what you do.
After the success of our lunch and learn webinar, with Tracey Secker, talking about domestic abuse, we will be rolling out more events so please show your support.
As always, I want to thank you for your support and dedication to our Law Society and also a big thank you to the team in our office.
If you’d like to speak to me, please feel free to reach out—unless it’s about my shoe choice. You can quietly reflect on that one.
Gold Sponsors
This year’s winners of the auspicious 23rd Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards showcased the top legal talent shaping the sector in Birmingham and the West Midlands. The President, Richard Port, MBE stating this year has been “…the most difficult year to judge in the history of the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards.”
Held at the ICC Birmingham on Thursday 13 February, the glittering awards ceremony was hosted by PJ Ellis – Birmingham based radio DJ and former star of Big Brother – and celebrated the high calibre of legal work that takes place in Birmingham, whilst shining a spotlight on the
exceptional quality of professional talent that the city’s legal community has to offer.
Richard Port MBE, President of Birmingham Law Society, said: “This has perhaps been the most difficult year to judge in the history of the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards, due to the record number of outstanding entrants. After careful deliberation, we are thrilled to have shortlisted 64 individuals and firms across 14 categories. The West Midlands and Birmingham continues to be home to some of the most influential and innovative legal professionals, and it’s an honour to recognise their exceptional
achievements. The Birmingham Law Society is incredibly proud to celebrate this success at our prestigious awards ceremony.”
A record number of entries were submitted for this year’s awards, before an expert panel of judges made up of representatives from the legal and business sector whittled them down to the final 64 individuals and firms shortlisted across the 14 categories.
Among the winners, Becca Horley of Shoosmiths LLP fought off fierce competition in her category to be recognised as Solicitor of the Year 2025. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Claire Darley of FBC Manby Bowdler.
As well as being a celebration of our top legal talent, it was an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the President’s two chosen charities of the year: She Beasts CIC and Mankind Initiative – both of which support victims of domestic abuse. These local charities will each receive a share of the £3766 raised at the event, which saw an auction and balloon raffle where a signed poster of Tom Holland as Spiderman was up for grabs.
How have you celebrated your win? The awards night was great fun seeing peers from across the profession and celebrating with other award winners. It was a busy week for me, with Valentines Day the following day and then my birthday the day after! It was a long weekend of spending time with my nearest and dearest and sharing the win with them. I’ve been fortunate to have good people around me throughout my life, any win is a reflection of them.
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? My wife has been super supportive through all my different projects and initiatives. She keeps me grounded and is always a good person to share challenges and hurdles with. A problem shared is a problem halved! Having a person in your corner for the good times and the bad times is very important.
If you could create one new law what would it be? I would create a law to make all public transport free (or at least part of it). This would allow our roads to be clear and our planet to be less polluted. With free travel, it would allow people to travel and commute much easier. Whether that is students trying to get to schools, colleges and universities to getting people back into our city centres and high streets. With making public transport more accessible, I would hope we would invest more into making it more efficient and user friendly for all.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform? I have a long list but the following deserve a mention: Birmingham Solicitors’ Group - one of the largest and most active junior lawyer groups in the country, the BSG gave me great memories and I love seeing them grow and flourish. TAG Network Midlands - a fantastic multi sector networking organisation which showed me how diverse and collaborative our region really is. The Law Society – I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a Council Member, it’s really encouraging to see our profession evolving and positively changing across the nation. West Midlands Police, for my clients and colleagues, it’s been a pleasure in my first public sector and in-house role. A lot of amazing work happens behind the scenes in policing and the public sector. I’m privileged to have a role that has real positive impact on our region and communities. Last but not least, my great In-House Committee Members, it’s been exciting to see the in-house community grow and flourish, looking forward to seeing what we can achieve!
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law? Get involved with as much as you can both inside the office and outside the office (or within the classroom and outside the classroom). Keep building your experiences and skills even if they are outside of the legal profession. Make your skill set and experiences be as diverse as possible, so you have enough for a foundation to build from in your legal career. With the profession evolving, we have a lot more roles and opportunities hence there is a role for everyone.
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better? I think lawyers need to engage more with our communities and external projects. Lawyers are often seen as the back office function, not to be seen or heard. Often lawyers have the best ideas and solutions to problems but just don’t have the confidence or the support of stakeholders. Being in-house, I can see how lawyers can positively change organisations, sectors and industries. If we want to see positive change around us, we as lawyers need to be in those different environments and rooms to really drive change.
How have you celebrated your win? No wild nights out celebrating for me with three kids at home, but my husband did surprise me with a box of Cadbury's Crème Eggs - my absolute favourite - and my colleagues made a real fuss of me which was lovely!
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success?
I couldn't name one individual, but I am fortunate enough to have really supportive and encouraging colleagues and a brilliant network of peers! Having such a strong support system of like-minded professionals not only inspires me but also reinforces the importance of uplifting others. I am grateful every day for the incredible people I get to work alongside.
If you could create one new law what would it be? If I could create a new law, it would be Mandatory Hobby Time! Once a week, everyone would get dedicated time to do something they love—whether it’s crafting, collecting, gaming, or something more active like hiking or dancing. No emails, no work calls - just pure, guilt-free enjoyment. I truly believe having a creative or fun outlet makes a huge difference to work-life balance. Plus, imagine the cool new skills we’d all pick up!
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform? I am a huge advocate for administrative
professionals at all levels, across all industries. These individuals are the backbone of so many organisations ensuring seamless operations, effective communication, and strategic efficiency - their contributions are invaluable, yet often underappreciated.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law? For those considering legal support roles like a Legal PA, know that you play a key role in keeping everything running smoothly. The ability to anticipate needs, handle confidential information responsibly, and support legal teams efficiently makes a huge difference. Most importantly, build strong relationships and don’t be afraid to ask questions - law is a team effort, and learning from those around you can help shape a successful and rewarding career!
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better?
This isn’t just for lawyers, but strong communication is something we can all work on! Whether it’s speaking up in meetings, setting boundaries, or asking for help when we need it (even when it feels difficult), improving how we express ourselves can make a huge difference. Clear, confident communication helps us navigate challenges, build better relationships, and feel more supported. There’s always room to grow!
How have you celebrated your win? It feels like we’ve been celebrating since the shortlists were announced! We were also shortlisted for two Modern Law Awards and two LexisNexis Awards which was a huge achievement, so the whole year so far has felt celebratory. We held off with any big celebrations until after all three ceremonies so as not to jinx anything. But we immediately hung our certificate alongside previous years’, building on our certificate wall in the office. It is a wonderful reminder every day of how far the firm has come, and how our work helps clients.
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? Our whole team, who work so hard to provide excellent service, and every client who has taken time to leave a review. As well as demonstrating the value of our work, feedback really helps us to understand what clients appreciate so we can continually improve our services.
Also Edward’s Trust, our chosen charity who provided a testimonial for the application, and Enabling Technology who provided specialist neurodiversity training to our team.
If you could create one new law what would it be? We specialise in employment law, so there’s probably enough legislation coming up in that area for most employers! We’ll stick with helping people understand and implement all those changes.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform? We work closely with a few local charities who deserve the spotlight. We’ve supported Edward’s Trust, a charity in Edgbaston who offer support to bereaved families in the West Midlands, for 8 years now. We’ve also recently started supporting Queen Alexandra Charity in Harborne, who work with young people with disabilities to help build independence, academic and employability skills.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law? We have done quite a lot of mentoring with local universities, and the first piece of advice we always give is to spend time understanding the sector and roles. Law is a vast area, and you’ll find a big difference in the work and culture depending on practice area and firm size. There are also job roles that most people haven’t heard of, and you might find that one of those is best suited to your skills or interests. The best way to understand the sector is to talk to as many people as possible – whether that’s networking, university careers sessions, or getting a part-time job in a law firm (whatever the role).
But don’t underestimate transferrable skills. You don’t have to go straight from studying into a training contract - any work experience will help you to understand your strengths and interests, and to develop valuable skills.
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better? Switch off. Our firm truly encourages work/life balance, and it’s a point of pride that our team leave work on time and are not overworked or stressed. A happy and healthy life outside of work is priority, and we want to offer jobs that provide for that. We’ve seen the benefit for our work, as a happy team provides a much higher standard of service to clients.
Not everyone wants work to be their whole life, and that shouldn’t be the only option in law. Appealing to a wider range of people will allow the sector to benefit from a wider range of talents.
How have you celebrated your win? Had some spontaneous brunch and got involved in some more pro bono matters!
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? I’m very grateful to my team for nominating me and supporting my interest in pro bono. I’m also very thankful to be in a firm and office which emphasise the importance of pro bono and CSR activities and, under the leadership of our Director of Pro Bono Jane Cotton, is always looking at new opportunities and initiatives to support. An additional thank you to Jane who is approachable, genuine and lovely to work with.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform? I want to draw attention to a charity called Smart Works. They have centres across England and Scotland, and work to help empower unemployed women with the clothes, coaching and confidence they need to succeed at their job interview and transform their lives.
They do super important and beneficial work to help women break out of unemployment and escape the cycle of hardship. You can support in a variety of different ways including donating clothes, funds and partnering with Smart Works in other ways. Their website is: https://www.smartworks. org.uk/.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law? The legal profession needs more diversity and people who see things from a variety of perspectives, so if you think you want a career in law but you’re not sure you “fit the stereotype”, do it anyway and make your own path. Ask for help and take every opportunity you can!
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better? Share our knowledge and expertise with people who desperately need it and can’t access it as easily as your day to day clients.
How have you celebrated your win? Sadly, I had to be in court the following day so I was relatively restrained, but at the weekend we had a family meal and a small glass of champagne to enjoy the moment.
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? My husband, Ash, who always supports me, he picks up the slack at home, ensuring I can travel for court if need be.
I would also like to thank HHJ Stephen Oliver Jones KC who saw me mooting at Law School and offered me an interview at No5, he changed the course of my life. Finally my Pupil Master, now HHJ Simon Drew KC, for demonstrating excellence on a daily basis.
If you could create one new law what would it be?
I would change the Unduly Lenient Scheme so that in order to appeal against a sentence one would have to show a personal connection to the case.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish
to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform?
I am deeply worried about retention of women at the Bar, so many are leaving, or moving away from a criminal practice as they feel it doesn’t offer the flexibility required if one chooses to become a parent.
I hope to show that you can be a good parent and good barrister, that the roles are compatible, and I aim to be a role model for young women entering the profession.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law?
Try different chambers and solicitors, find a practice area that you feel passionate about, and a firm that is the right fit for you.
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better? Be more approachable- we exist in a rarified world, wearing a ridiculous costume, unless we engage with the public and show them what we do and how we make a difference we are never going to be liked!
In today’s competitive legal landscape, aspiring legal professionals are seeking efficient, practical pathways into the industry. Paralegal apprenticeships have emerged as a game-changing alternative to traditional education routes, offering a direct entry into legal careers without the time commitment and financial burden of university degrees.
The traditional route into legal practice often involves years of university education followed by additional professional qualifications. In contrast, paralegal apprenticeships provide individuals without law degrees a streamlined pathway to qualification in just 13 months. This accelerated timeline means candidates can begin earning and advancing in their careers much sooner.
These structured programmes combine practical work experience with focused theoretical training, creating wellrounded paralegals who are job-ready upon qualification. Apprentices develop expertise in essential areas including legal procedures, case management, research skills, and professional ethics – all while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in a real legal environment.
The Financial Benefits: Earn While You Learn
Perhaps one of the most compelling advantages of the apprenticeship route is the opportunity to earn a salary while qualifying. Instead of accumulating student debt, apprentices receive income throughout their training period. The financial benefits extend to employers as well. With government funding covering 95% of training costs for most firms, employers only contribute 5% of the total programme cost. For law firms with apprentices aged 16-21, 100% funding is available, making this an exceptionally cost-effective talent development strategy.
Datalaw has established itself as a leader in law apprenticeships, working with over 428 law firms across the UK. Their programme offers several distinctive advantages:
● 100% Pass Rate: Datalaw are proud to achieve a 100% pass rate on the new paralegal apprenticeship standards, with every learner earning a distinction.
● Remote and Flexible Training: The entire training programme is completed
online, allowing apprentices to efficiently balance work responsibilities with their studies.
● Gold Standard Training: Comprehensive preparation for both portfolio building and End-Point Assessment ensures candidates develop robust skills and confidence.
● Multiple Start Dates: With a minimum of four intake periods annually, candidates can begin their qualification journey at a time that’s most suitable to them and their employers.
● Outstanding Satisfaction: A 90% learner satisfaction rate demonstrates the quality and effectiveness of Datalaw’s learning approach.
For law firms, paralegal apprenticeships represent more than just a training opportunity – they’re a strategic approach to developing in-house talent. By investing in apprentices, firms can:
● Cultivate professionals who understand their specific processes and culture
● Address skills gaps within their organisations
● Improve staff retention through clear development pathways
● Diversify their talent pool by making legal careers accessible to candidates from various backgrounds
These benefits help explain why 65% of apprentices secure permanent roles within their training organisation after qualification, and why 92% of businesses report higher workforce satisfaction after implementing apprenticeship programmes.
Upon successful completion of the 13-month programme, apprentices achieve a Level 3 Paralegal qualification, equivalent to an A-level in Law. This nationally recognised credential allows them to:
● Work as qualified paralegals in various legal settings
● Earn fees at grade D of the Guideline Hourly Rates
● Build a foundation for further career progression within the legal sector
For individuals without previous legal qualifications – including legal assistants,
support staff, and those new to the legal field – this represents an accessible entry point to a rewarding professional career.
Getting Started: Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for Datalaw’s paralegal apprenticeship programme requires:
● No prior law degree or higher legal qualification
● Spending at least 50% of working time in England
● GCSE mathematics and English at grade C/4 or higher (or equivalent)
● Employment within a legal organisation with employer approval
● Not currently enrolled in another government-funded apprenticeship
For candidates meeting these criteria, the application process is straightforward, with Datalaw providing guidance through each step of the journey.
In an industry that has traditionally relied on lengthy, expensive education pathways, paralegal apprenticeships represent a streamlined, accessible, and cost-effective route to qualification. By combining practical experience with focused theoretical training, these programmes create qualified professionals who are genuinely prepared for the demands of modern legal practice.
With a 13-month qualification timeline, financial accessibility for both apprentices and employers, and proven success rates, it’s clear why law apprenticeships, including paralegal apprenticeships, are becoming increasingly popular. For those looking to begin their legal careers – or law firms seeking to develop their talent pipelines – these programmes offer an efficient, effective pathway to success.
If you’re interested in learning more about paralegal apprenticeships or applying to Datalaw’s programme, register your interest today.
TLS Bicentenary Celebration in Birmingham
4th April, 6.30pm – 9.30pm, Library of Birmingham. FREE for all to attend
Networking Social sponsored by St Ives Chambers
30th April, 6pm – 8pm, St Ives Chambers. FREE for members | £10 +VAT for non-members
Sustainability Conference in partnership with Landmark Information
6th May, 9.30am – 1.30pm, Barclays Bank PLC. FREE for all to attend
BLS Quiz
7th May, 6pm – 9pm, Revolución de Cuba. £125 +VAT for member team of 5 | £150 +VAT for non-member team of 5
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: Navigating personal taxation, retirement planning and legacy amidst political upheaval in partnership with Quilter Cheviot
13th May, 4.45pm – 7pm, Quilter Cheviot. FREE for all to attend
Alternative Dinner 2025 16th May, 7pm – 11pm followed by after party, Macdonald Burlington Hotel. £55 +VAT students | £70 +VAT members | £80 +VAT non-members
In-House Lawyers Networking Social sponsored by Trowers & Hamlins LLP
21st May, 5.45pm – 8.30pm, Trowers & Hamlins LLP. FREE for all in-house lawyers to attend
Birmingham Legal Leaders Roundtable 22nd May, 12pm – 1pm, Online. FREE (invite only)
Pride 2025 Walking Group sponsored by No5 Barristers’ Chambers & MFG Solicitors
24th May, approx. 10.30am – 3pm, Meeting Point: No5 Barristers’ Chambers. FREE for all to attend
Stronger Together: A Trilogy of Support & Success
3rd June, 12pm – 2pm, Revolución de Cuba, £25 +VAT for members | £30 +VAT for non-members
To reserve your place and find out more, make sure that you visit www.birminghamlawsociety.co.uk
Thank you to Birmingham Law Society for this award and to Richard Port MBE, President of BLS.
I have had the honour of chairing the Family Law Committee of Birmingham Law Society for 13 years now, as a Family lawyer since 1998, and I qualified as a Solicitor in 2002. The Family Law Committee is a true collaboration of professionals working in the Family justice system – ranging from lawyers to include members of the judiciary representing firms across the region of the West Midlands.
The Family Law Committee is invaluable as a forum for improving local and national efficiencies in working practice in our sector which is our stated mission.
We have much work to do and as I reach half a century this year in age next month - I will seek to ensure I continue to be a member and an active campaigner to ensure we continue to achieve significant milestones to achieve our mission statement.
I have personally found BLS has been the most supportive network to be a part of in my career.
I am proud of what we have achieved as a Committee.
Our inaugural conference and thereafter biannual and now annual conferences are sell-out events.
These events ensure that Birmingham family lawyers and those working in the system share their talent, expertise and experience nationally with, for example, the present and past presidents of the Family Division as others sharing their wisdom as a keynote speaker at the event.
We are privileged in what we do on a day-to-day basis in serving our clients as their trusted advisers and none more so than in family law. Much has changed over time – but one thing always remains as a constant to provide stellar client service.
No individual succeeds without their team and Birmingham Law Society is no exception. Together we are evidence that positive outcome for clients experiencing the family justice system and dispute resolution can achieve the best outcomes for our clients and their families across the region!
Thank you to everyone who donated at the Birmingham Law Awards. It was a fantastic event—congratulations to the winners and nominees.
The charity has been busy, with increasing numbers of men reaching out for help, many facing coercive control, economic abuse, and violence, often entangled in the family courts. We support the Government’s Pathfinder pilot programme in Birmingham, recognising the need to reduce conflict in the legal process.
Government figures show one in three domestic abuse victims are male, with one in seven men experiencing abuse in their lifetime—equating to 720,000 men annually. In the West Midlands alone, 14,000 men report domestic abuse to the police each year, highlighting the widespread impact
across all backgrounds.
Over 20 years ago, male victims had nowhere to turn. The ManKind Initiative was founded to provide support, launching a helpline, website, and advocating for services across the country. While progress has been made, challenges persist. Our helpline receives 2,000 calls annually, and our website attracts over 200,000 visitors. Yet, societal attitudes remain a barrier—research has shown that magistrates may perceive male victims as able to bear more harm than women, even in identical circumstances. This is why our work remains vital.
Our legal page lists solicitors who support male victims: https://mankind. org.uk/help-for-victims/legal-support/ Donations, including those from
Birmingham Law Society members, are ringfenced, ensuring we can advocate for male victims with police, legal bodies, and the CPS. We continue to push for better inclusion in CPS policies and will meet national representatives later this year.
Your support saves lives. If you wish to be listed on our legal page or require training, please contact training@ mankind.org.uk. Thank you for making a difference.
Mark Brooks OBE Chair of Trustees
She Beasts CIC is thrilled to share an easy, cost-free way for you to support our mission—just by shopping online! With Easyfundraising, your everyday purchases can generate free donations for us, at no extra cost to you.
1. Sign up using our referral link: here
2. Shop as usual at over 7,500 retailers, including Amazon, eBay, and Tesco.
3. Retailers donate a percentage of your purchase directly to She Beasts CIC!
It’s completely free, and every donation helps us continue empowering our community.
https://www.easyfundraising. org.uk/how-it-works/?efr_ source=website&efr_ medium=easyfundraising&efr_ campaign=header-navigation
She Beasts CIC is preparing to launch a major crowdfunding campaign to establish our very own community space—ensuring the individuals we support have the best experience in the safest environment possible.
If you’re part of the Birmingham Law Society network and can assist—whether through funding, DIY fundraisers, reward donations, or simply spreading the word—we’d love to hear from you!
You can contact us directly here: info@shebeastscic.co.uk
Together, we can make a real difference. Thank you for your support!
Paralegals are so much more than assistants, secretaries or administrators. And not every paralegal is a graduate looking for a little paralegal work before they enrol for their SQE. Some paralegals actually wish to work as paralegal practitioners or career paralegals, and eventually even as Professional Licensed Paralegals with their own businesses writes By Amanda Hamilton, Patron, National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP)
Wherever someone sits on the career ladder, their experience, expertise and insight should be acknowledged and respected.
So how can you show your paralegals that you care?
Paralegals are people
Providing an opportunity for a good work-life balance is important for any employee, and paralegals are no exception. By ensuring team members have regular breaks, and reasonable working hours, you show that you genuinely care about the people within your business. Put an end of presenteeism, and reward people for the work they do – whatever their level within the company.
Offering regular feedback on their performance and a clear pathway to possible progression within the organisation is another way to recognise the contribution that paralegals make. Some may be interested in specialising, others may prefer a more general remit, and some may have decided they wish to qualify as a solicitor. Whatever their goals, helping them reach them is good for business.
Qualifications and memberships
Connecting your paralegal staff to a membership body can be a positive step toward becoming an excellent paralegal employer. A membership
body such as NALP, can offer support, introduce them to other members, offer valuable benefits such as regular webinars on useful subject areas and issues, and even offer free career consultations about progression and what they can and cannot do as a paralegal. Why not offer to pay for their membership?
Encourage, and perhaps pay for them to attend, ‘National Paralegal Day’. This is an annual event that celebrates the role of paralegals and ensures they know they are recognised and appreciated. It’s a fun evening, with food and drink, awards and lots of networking. Perhaps it can be a teambuilding social event for your paralegal team.
Sponsoring your paralegal employees to gain NALP Ofqual recognised paralegal qualifications or paying for them as part of their continuous professional development (CPD) will also show that you care about their work today and in the future. Additional training, qualifications and CPD is good for your business and good for your paralegals who will have a greater breadth of knowledge, as well as boosting their confidence and morale. This in turn increases their loyalty and reduces staff turnover.
Recognise the contribution they make to the work of the company by proactively and clearly thanking them and pointing out where they contributed. Everyone likes to feel noticed and valued, so ensure your paralegals are not forgotten in favour of the more highly qualified colleagues.
Competitive pay structures are also important, and paralegals should be paid a fair salary for the work they do. But not everything is about the money; great working conditions, social events, flexible working, sabbaticals, etc., all help to make people feel good about the company they work for.
Nurturing your employees always brings dividends; productivity and motivation increases, while absenteeism and staff turnover decreases. You’ll attract and retain the best talent and gain a reputation as a great company to work for.
http://nationalparalegals.co.uk
Gateley Legal has expanded its specialist residential development team in Birmingham with the lateral hire of partner, Simon Robinson.
Robinson joins Gateley Legal with approaching 20 years of experience advising housebuilders, land promoters and developers on housebuilding and urban residential development matters. He also specialises in strategic land, regeneration and complex joint venture schemes.
He has spent his entire legal career working in Birmingham and previously spent seven years as a partner at Trowers & Hamlins, as well as holding prior roles with firms including Gowling WLG and Eversheds Sutherland.
Robinson maintained his Band 3 Real Estate ranking in the Chambers and Partners 2025 legal guide for the fifth consecutive year.
On his appointment, Robinson said: “Helping clients to build the new homes that our communities desperately need is the main motivation for my work. So, I have long admired Gateley Legal’s market-leading residential development team and I am delighted to have the opportunity to join them in Birmingham. Now that I am here, I’ve been even more impressed by the size, scope and ambition of the team and it’s great to be able to contribute to their success.”
Gateley Legal acts for 18 of the top 20 housebuilders in the UK, on either a regional or national scale, and handles approximately 15,000 plot sales per year. It is one of the few legal businesses in the country with a separate housebuilder team specialising in services for residential developers.
The head of the Employment Law team of Midlands firm Sydney Mitchell has been announced as the new President of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, the largest regional division of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce.
Emma-Louise Hewitt, Partner and Head of Sydney Mitchell’s Employment Department since September 2018, takes over the Chamber’s Presidency on 20 March 2025 from outgoing President Eileen Schofield.
An accomplished and experienced employment lawyer, and ranked as a next-generation partner in the Legal 500 directory, Emma-Louise provides legal services to employees and employers across sectors including automotive, professional services, and hospitality. She advises on the vast range of employment law in a range of areas including contracts, handbooks and policies, tribunal claims, workplace discrimination, and reorganisation and redundancy procedures. She also delivers workplace training and day-to-day legal and HR advice to business owners, managers and HR advisors.
Her professional excellence has been recognised by several awards including finalist in the category of Future Leader at the Solihull Chamber Awards in 2023, Partner of the Year in the 2024 Birmingham Law Society Awards, finalist in the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Future Faces Awards 2017, received a Commendation for the Women who Achieve in Business 2017 and a nomination for an award in the Networking Mummies National Recognised Business Awards.
On becoming President of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, Emma-Louise says: “I am extremely honoured to be taking on the role of President of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce for the next two years. I am especially looking forward to working alongside Samantha Frampton, Head of Solihull Chamber, as we continue to strive to create an environment that fosters growth, innovation and collaboration among our members.”
Anthony Collins expands its services following partner Chris Lloyd-Smith’s qualification as a financial remedy family arbitrator, offering an alternative to traditional divorce services.
In addition to mediation, collaborative practice, and the ‘one lawyer’ method, the firm now provides arbitration for dividing
matrimonial assets, offering a quicker and more costeffective solution than court proceedings.
As a CIArb member with over 20 years’ experience, Chris specialises in complex financial matters, including business assets, pensions, and family trusts, delivering tailored arbitration solutions.
Chris Lloyd-Smith, a partner
in the matrimonial team at Anthony Collins, said: “I am committed to supporting clients as they go through one of the biggest challenges of their lives, and I am extremely proud to now be able to offer arbitration services.”
Dye & Durham is proud to announce that Insight Legal, one of its practice management solutions, has been awarded Silver at the 2024 Institute of Legal Finance & Management (ILFM) Law Firm Software Users Awards. This marks the eighth year that Insight Legal has been recognised by legal professionals for its contributions to legal practice management and accounting.
The ILFM is the UK’s leading membership organisation for legal finance and practice management professionals. Its annual software
awards are based on direct feedback from legal cashiers, practice managers, COFAs, and senior partners who use legal software daily. Their insights reflect the real-world impact of practice management solutions in driving efficiency and compliance within law firms.
“We’re honoured that our practice management solutions continue to receive recognition from the legal community, particularly as this award was voted for by Insight Legal’s user base” said Catrin Macleod, Head of Product, Practice Management at Dye
& Durham. “This award reflects and reinforces our commitment to providing innovative, reliable technology that law firms can depend on. As part of Dye & Durham, Insight Legal users benefit from an even broader suite of tools designed to support every aspect of legal practice.”
As a global leader in legal technology, Dye & Durham continues to invest in enhancing its suite of practice management solutions, ensuring law firms across the UK have the tools they need to succeed in an evolving legal landscape.
Dye & Durham Limited provides premier practice management solutions empowering legal professionals every day, delivers vital data insights to support critical corporate transactions and enables the essential payments infrastructure trusted by government and financial institutions. The company has operations in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and South Africa. Additional information can be found at www.dyedurham.com.
Role: Residential / Commercial Conveyancing Solicitor
Firm: Hadgkiss Hughes & Beale
Location: Hall Green
Hours: Full time (negotiable)
Description of role: We are a long-established and respected high street law firm looking for an experienced Residential Conveyancing Solicitor with the ability to
do some Commercial Conveyancing. This role offers a wonderful opportunity to join our friendly team at our Hall Green office.
Key Skills Required: We are seeking a motivated and reliable solicitor with at least 3 years of post-qualification experience to work a minimum of 4 days a week office based. It is anticipated you will have experience of managing your own residential caseload, be organised and focused on delivering exceptional client service at all times.
Package: Competitive based on experience
Find out more at: email gordonkeir@hhb-mo.co.uk
How to apply: email gordonkeir@hhb-mo.co.uk or telephone Gordon Keir on 0121 449 5050
Close Date: Until the position is filled.
International law firm Trowers & Hamlins marked the launch of its new office in Birmingham with a celebration bringing together key spokespeople, clients and friends from across the region.
The new premises at One Snowhill opened at the end of 2024 and continues Trowers’ reputable status in the heart of Birmingham’s business district, with a vibrant collaborative working space aligned with the firm’s growth strategy and sustainability goals.
All of the pieces of art at the Trowers One Snowhill office are by artists living and working in the region [image attached]. Each one has been selected to reflect a different aspect of the region using a variety of media and were sourced or commissioned through collaboration with the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (established for more than 200 years in the city), Colley Ison Gallery and Seventh Circle.
Thompsons Solicitors has paid tribute to Sarah Greening, a highly respected lawyer in its Birmingham Multi-Track Personal Injury team, who has sadly passed away.
Sarah joined the firm in 2019 as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (FCIlex) and quickly became a valued team member. Known for her legal expertise, meticulous approach, and deep compassion, she was dedicated to securing justice for her clients.
Colleagues remember Sarah for her positivity, professionalism, and generosity. A trusted teammate, she willingly shared her knowledge and encouraged others, contributing to the firm’s culture of collaboration and excellence. She was also a strong supporter of trade union events, dedicating time to upholding the firm’s core values.
Clare Mellor, Chief Executive of Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Sarah was an outstanding lawyer and a wonderful colleague. Her warmth, kindness, and generosity made her a brilliant team player. We will miss her enormously, and our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her.”
Rachel Dowling-Jones, Director at Royal Birmingham Society of Artists said: “It’s been great working with Trowers on this project and shows how important it is for businesses to interact with the arts. The artwork has really elevated the space and it demonstrates how Trowers are practising what they preach in terms of embedding themselves across different all levels and parts of the community.”
The firm’s Birmingham office originally opened in 2011 with 11 people and has grown to 130 with a widespread offering including; real estate, dispute resolution, corporate and commercial, employment, construction, banking and finance and more.
Partner Yetunde Dania who was part of the original cohort of staff, has been head of the Birmingham office for five years.
Yetunde said: “It is fantastic to be able to bring everybody together to celebrate our new premises and our achievements over the past 13 years. I am incredibly proud of the significant growth and success of our Birmingham office which is testament to each and everyone who works here. This energy efficient space not only fits with our sustainability targets, but it will allow us to work collaboratively and to grow even more.
Over the past 14 years we have played a significant role in shaping our community from our work on the Commonwealth games, the introduction of 5G to our dedication to our outreach work with Birmingham Open Media (BOM), Common Purpose, Core Education Trust and the Care leaver Covenant to name but a few.”
St Philips Chambers is delighted to announce that CEO and Director of Clerking, Joe Wilson, has been appointed Vice-Chair of The Institute of Barristers’ Clerks (IBC).
This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Joe becomes the first regional clerk in the IBC’s 103-year history to hold the Vice-Chair position. It highlights the Institute’s commitment to being a truly national organisation representing the diverse needs of barristers’ clerks across the UK.
In collaboration with newly appointed Chair Dave Scothern, Joe will focus on championing the profession by advancing education and opportunities for professional
MSB is delighted to announce the opening of its new Birmingham office, further strengthening the firm’s national presence. Founded in Liverpool in 1988, MSB has grown significantly in recent years, with established offices in Liverpool, Manchester, Chester, and Cheshire. This latest expansion marks an exciting opportunity to serve businesses and individuals across the Midlands, delivering high-quality legal services across multiple practice areas.
As an award-winning full-service law firm, MSB is committed to providing excellence, accessibility, and community engagement. The firm undertakes both privately funded and legally aided work, ensuring access to justice for all. MSB has also embedded strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) values into its culture, earning multiple awards and accreditations in these areas.
The Birmingham team brings extensive expertise in family and criminal law, pictured above and in order:
Gemma Kelsey, Partner (Family Law)
– A leading children law specialist with expertise in international child abduction and cross-border disputes. She holds Resolution specialist accreditations and is recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.
Hannah Stubbs, Senior Associate (Family Law) – An expert in financial disputes on divorce, named a ‘Key Lawyer’ by Legal 500.
Mahan Manu, Senior Associate (Crime)
– A criminal law specialist with 38 years’ experience, holding Higher Court Rights for Criminal Litigation and expertise in serious fraud cases.
Yvonne Dennison, Senior Paralegal (Crime) – A VHCC-accredited litigator with 20 years’ experience, preparing cases involving murder, fraud, and sexual offences.
Mary Polding, Paralegal (Family Law)
– A Criminology and Law graduate with prior experience in family law. (not pictured)
Marie Wood, Administration Support (Crime) – A dedicated support professional with 30 years’ experience, ensuring seamless client service.
Managing Partner Emma Carey commented: “Birmingham is a fantastic city, and we are excited to build relationships and serve its diverse community. This expansion marks an important step in MSB’s journey.”
With this new office, MSB continues its commitment to delivering outstanding legal services while making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.”
development for clerks nationwide and ensuring robust representation on Bar Council committees.
Joe, who is currently undertaking a charity trek across the Sahara Desert, commented:
“I am honoured to be appointed ViceChair of the Institute of Barristers’ Clerks. Being the first regional clerk to hold this position is a privilege, and I look forward to working closely with Dave Scothern and the rest of the IBC Executive Team.
It’s an exciting time to be a clerk, and I’m dedicated to supporting our members and fostering the continued growth and development of the profession across the UK.”
UK legal firms, chambers, and professionals are invited to join the HM Government delegation to Toronto this November for the International Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference 2025. Delivered in partnership by the Ministry of Justice’s GREAT Legal Services campaign and the Department for Business and Trade, the delegation offers access to exclusive networking events, industry-leading roundtables, and discussions on global legal sector developments.
In collaboration with The Law Society of England & Wales, The Bar Council, and other expert partners, delegates will receive guidance and support, including advice on making the most of the IBA, particularly for first-time attendees.
The programme welcomes applications from SMEs, regional firms, and those new to the IBA, as well as established firms and chambers seeking to expand globally. Delegates will also have the opportunity to help shape the programme.
Organisations interested in event partnerships are also encouraged to get in touch.
Applications close on 27 April 2025 at 11:59pm GMT. For more details, contact matthew.readett@justice.gov.uk.
The commercial property market is a fast-paced and complex sector that demands precision, clarity, and actionable environmental due diligence powered by expert knowledge. Landmark has long been the trusted partner for conveyancers and solicitors seeking reliable environmental searches, and now, we’re raising the bar once again.
Our remastered commercial reports provide property professionals with the most comprehensive environmental risk assessments on the market, now reimagined for ease of use and precision. With every report crafted to empower decision-makers, these enhancements ensure that you can navigate complex transactions with clarity and confidence.
Here’s what you need to know about Landmark’s new commercial product portfolio, its features, and how it’s transforming the conveyancing process.
What’s New: Upgrades Across the Board
Our two flagship products, Sitecheck Assess and Sitecheck Combined, have undergone major upgrades introducing new risk categories and refining existing assessments.
Sitecheck Assess: Upgrades Full Assessment Enhancements:
• Flood Risk: Now includes a breakdown of flood risk by specific perils - River, Coastal, Surface Water, and Groundwater - giving a clear view of the property’s exposure.
• Energy & Infrastructure: Previously flagged as an alert, this information is now included as standard, eliminating the need for additional ancillary reports.
• Ground Stability: Newly added to the
report, this category evaluates natural and mining-related hazards that could impact the site.
Alert Assessment Enhancements:
• Coal Mining: For the first time, coal mining risks are included, using Landmark’s redefined methodology to reduce false positives and unnecessary delays in transactions.
Sitecheck Combined: Upgrades Full Assessment Enhancements:
• Climate Change: A brand-new module provides forward-looking analysis on the long-term impact of climate change, including risks such as flooding, coastal erosion, ground stability and energy efficiency concerns.
• Ground Stability: Now included, offering essential insights into natural and mining-related hazards.
• Energy & Infrastructure: Standardised inclusion of nearby project details removes the need for additional reports.
Alert Assessment Enhancements:
• Coal Mining: Newly integrated with the same refined accuracy as Sitecheck Assess.
Designed for Today’s Workflow
Over 76% of the population uses screens daily, so we’ve optimised our reports for a landscape format, making them easier to view on laptops and desktop monitors. This design lets you see all the information at a glance, without excessive scrolling.
The front page provides a comprehensive at a glance view, making it easier to see what needs your attention.
Focused Summaries for Quick Insights
The first few pages of each report are dedicated to executive summaries, providing:
• Concise risk overviews for each risk category, supported by visual maps.
• Recommendations that can be directly copied into client reports for convenience.
This ensures you can quickly interpret results and provide your clients with actionable advice.
While the summaries provide clarity, we know that some conveyancers value access to detailed data. To strike the right balance:
• Hyperlinked Navigation: Quickly jump to the sections you care about most, streamlining your review process.
• Data Appendices: All supporting data, maps, and tables are included at the back of the report, but only for categories where risks are identified. This removes unnecessary clutter while ensuring comprehensive due diligence.
Landmark’s remastered commercial reports are more than just upgrades - they represent a shift in how environmental risks are assessed and presented. Here’s how they make your job easier:
• Effortless Clarity: Our reports are simple to navigate, allowing you to identify risks and next steps quickly.
• Streamlined Decision-Making: With fewer false positives and clearer data interpretation, transactions proceed smoothly.
• Enhanced Coverage: New modules like climate change and ground stability offer unparalleled due diligence.
• Cost and Time Savings: By including ancillary report data as standard, Landmark reduces the need for additional purchases and delays.
Landmark’s new commercial product portfolio sets a new standard for environmental searches. With an intuitive design, industry-leading data interpretation, and upgrades that address today’s most pressing risks, these reports empower you to deliver exceptional service to your clients.
To find out more about Landmark’s remastered commercial reports visit: Landmark.co.uk/RemasteredReports
As the UK’s leading provider of property insights and expertise, Landmark’s in-house sustainability consultants are not only driving net zero and supply chain due diligence in our business but are also helping property professionals achieve the same goals.
Where do you need to start?
• Helping your firm reduce GHG emissions and start their net zero journey?
• Advice on the impact of climate change for law firms and your clients?
• Support with supply chain due diligence?
Landmark Information empowers property professionals to navigate sustainability challenges, wherever they are on their journey.
The long-awaited Employment Rights Bill 2024 (ERB) was published in October 2024 (see link below for ERB and contents). The Bill brings forward major legislative changes which are set to shift the landscape of employment law as we know it - described by the Prime Minister as ‘the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation’.
Afsarah Haque-Hassan, Solicitor at National Highways and Committee Member of Birmingham Law Society’s In-House Lawyers Committee addresses the parts of the ERB which pose real issues for lawyers: day-one unfair dismissal rights; fire and rehire; flexible working; and zero hours contracts.
The Government is expected to begin consulting on these reforms in 2025, seeking significant input from stakeholders. It is anticipated that the majority of reforms will take effect no earlier than 2026.
Arguably, the biggest news in the ERB is the provision of a ‘day one’ right to bring an unfair dismissal claim removing the current two-year qualifying period required to bring an unfair dismissal claim.
The government has confirmed that the reforms to unfair dismissal will not come into effect any sooner than Autumn 2026, with the current qualifying period continuing to apply until then.
The changes brought forward by the ERB will make it automatically unfair to dismiss if the principal reason for dismissal is either that an employee refuses to agree to a variation of contract sought by an employer; or to enable an employer to recruit another person; or re-hire the employee under new terms but with substantially the same duties.
Exceptions to the practice will exist if the reason for the variation is to significantly reduce or mitigate the effect of any financial difficulties that already, or are likely in the immediate future to, affect the business as a going concern - and in all the circumstances, an employer could not reasonably have avoided the need to make the variation. Even then, the employers must ensure a fair process is followed, with particular focus on consultation with the employee and any recognised union.
The ERB strengthens flexible working rights, with employers only being able to turn down requests for flexible working if their reason for doing so falls within the widely drafted list of ‘acceptable business reasons’ to refuse requests (see link below for list).
Employers will also be required to write to employees stating the ground/s for refusing a flexible working request, explaining why the employer considers the decision to be reasonable.
Currently, employees can request flexible working arrangements such as working from home or compressed hours from their employer. Flexible working requests can be submitted at any point during the course of employment with no duty on an employer to agree to such arrangements.
Currently, there have been no statutory restrictions on zerohour contracts, so employers can use them to offer workers varied working hours on a week-by-week basis.
Changes by the ERB can require employers to offer workers a guaranteed-hours contract based on the hours they have completed during a 12-week reference period. There will also be a right to reasonable notice of a shift for workers and a duty to compensate them for cancelling shifts without reasonable notice.
What can you do to get ahead as an in-house lawyer?
• Review your client’s current policies and procedures and ensure that they will be compliant with the upcoming changes
• Deliver updates of the ERB and training to your HR teams on key issues
• Review areas of the organisation that can be impacted by the changes, proactively raise flags with interested parties, and make preparation before the implementation of the ERB
• Stay ahead of updates by attending masterclasses and follow trusted resources on next steps by the government on the implementation of the ERB
LINKS TO RELATED RESOURCES
• ERB
• Flexible working and acceptable business reasons
• Factsheet: Employment Rights Bill overview
Keep an eye on our events calendar here for upcoming in-house events which includes:
21st May: In-House Lawyers Networking Social at Trowers & Hamlins – BOOK HERE
24th July: In-House Seminar, Gateley
24th September: Details to be confirmed.
20th November: Details to be confirmed.
In the wake of our first year as a committee we look back with fondness and pride at out collaborations so far and take the opportunity to thank all those that made the year such a success. We were emboldened by our reflections during LGBTQ+ History Month in February and look to the future to bring you just as much commitment, support and excitement in the year ahead. We asked ourselves what this historic month meant to us and the overwhelming consensus was precisely what we as a committee stand for: the community.
In a year where we were finding our feet as a committee, we all had to live with political and civil unrest. The mindless public disorder which led to the postponement of our first social at the Loft Lounge was soon eclipsed by the enormous sense of togetherness at our Transgender Awareness Panel Event sponsored by Shoosmiths, Irwin Mitchell and Mills & Reeve. We were heartened to see how many turned out to listen to the inspirational stories of our panellists: Robin Moira White, Steph Keeble, Claire Byatt and our very own Jamie Adams. We thank them and you for fully embracing the spirit of the event. We hope you took away from it as much as us.
Our committee members, along with many of you, had a blast at the Alliance network games night and the fabulous Drag Bingo Event at Irwin Mitchell. We are so lucky that there is an abundance of support for our community, in our profession, in our great city. That is what drives us as a committee and we take inspiration from you all.
As Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde recognised, there will be people who will be scared at the moment. Standing together is what makes us stronger. We ask that everyone joins us for this year’s Birmingham Pride event. It is always the highlight of the calendar and promises to be just as exciting on 24th May 2025.
This year we are excited to announce that our sponsors, No5 Barristers’ Chambers and MFG Solicitors will be backing our Pride celebrations. No5 will be hosting a pre-parade brunch and can’t wait to see you there. Where could be better to meet and soak up the atmosphere (and a beverage or two) ahead of taking to the rainbow bedecked streets? Please keep an eye out for the registration details to come. The year is young and the ideas aplenty. Watch this space for a great deal more from us.
The Legal Tech Committee was relaunched earlier this year, and we are actively seeking new members to help build a thriving legal tech community in the region.
The committee brings together legal professionals, academics, and industry experts to explore the evolving role of technology in the legal sector. It serves as a platform to drive innovation, influence policy, and support professional development in legal tech.
We welcome law firms, in-house counsel, and legal professionals keen to shape legal practice’s future through technology and collaboration. By joining, you will have the opportunity to stay ahead of industry trends, connect with key stakeholders, and contribute to thought leadership in this rapidly evolving field.
If you’re interested in getting involved, please contact the BLS Office at info@ birminghamlawsociety.co.uk.
It is sometimes said that life is a journey. I prefer to describe my life as one of many journeys, some sequential, some overlapping & some in parallel. One of my many journeys has been as a solicitor. That began in 1981 and continues writes Steven Jonas of Jonas, Roy & Bloom.
Another, linked to that has been my involvement with the Birmingham Law Society (BLS). Both of these journeys have been overwhelmingly positive and enjoyable.
My journey with the BLS could be said to have begun when I joined the Society, back in 1981. However, my real journey with it began in 1990, when I was elected to Council. There was no Board in those days. Then as now, much of the Society’s work was done through its committees. I applied to join and was appointed to the Library Committee and the Civil Litigation Committee.
Civil litigation, under the excellent Chair, Peter Wiseman, because, at that time, I had a significant civil practice and my father was a member of what was then called the Criminal Litigation Committee. I did not think it appropriate to have two members of the same firm on the same committee. It was suggested that I join the Library Committee, at that time I think chaired by Michael Shepherd, because the Society’s library was claimed to be the beating heart, the jewel of the Society. This was pre-internet. The Society held an extraordinary number of legal texts and law reports. Probably as good as The Law Society’s at Chancery Lane. Presided over by Mr. Laheri and Julian. On any day you would see articled clerks (trainee solicitors) and senior partners there, pouring over books, transcribing relevant ratio decidendi
and obita dicta. Even barristers went there. All the statutes were there, all the statutory instruments and a vast array of loose leave volumes of specialised areas of law from Simon’s Taxes to Woodfall on Landlord and Tenant. There were dozens of them, all scrupulously updated every quarter or so.
As time went on, the largest firms began building their own law libraries and then the internet arrived. As the 1990s moved on, the elephant in the library was that firms were no longer using it and it was costing the Society a fortune. During this decade, I left the committees I had been on and joined what was renamed the Criminal Law Committee as I recognised that was where I was becoming more specialised and had more to offer. Before leaving the 1990s, I should just mention Council. Council consisted of some of Birmingham’s leading solicitors. Partners, often senior partners, in some of Birmingham’s leading firms. When I first joined Council, none of those firms had yet become national, yet alone international. These were people I was in awe of. It was a great honour to be sitting at the same table as them, learning from their pearls of wisdom.
Most of these solicitors, although specialists now, had had somewhat of a mixed background in terms of the areas of law they practiced in, before becoming the specialists they were as Council members. They appreciated that we were one profession which operated in a large number of different areas. They were prepared to discuss developments affecting solicitors in areas of law they did not practice in. They engaged and expressed genuine concern for legal aid lawyers for example.
In 2001 I became joint honorary secretary. A poor second fiddle to Peter Wiseman, whom many regard as the best President the Society never had. My time learning the ropes from him was short lived. In 2002 the Society’s then Deputy Vice President had to retire from that post, on becoming a full time District Judge. With the consent of my partners, I put my name forward and was appointed by Council.
In 2003 I was appointed Vice President and in 2004 President, exactly 25 years after my Late father had been. Being an officer is extremely interesting. You get to meet other lawyers and other professionals that you would not otherwise. You get to engage with officers from other law societies and The Law Society and you get to engage with other members of our
own Society which is very rewarding. Being President is very humbling. but it is also very enjoyable. Those days were pre – board, pre – board Chair, pre – chief executive. Being in a criminal law legal aid practice, I still had to be in court every day. For me a very exhilarating year.
Pausing there for a moment, parallel with my time with the BLS, I was continuing as a solicitor, in partnership with my late father, for many years with my mother as our bookkeeper. The firm remained (and remains to this day) one of the leading criminal law practices in the region.
I have always been an enthusiastic supporter of solicitors having rights of audience in higher courts. In 2001 I obtained my higher rights of audience in criminal proceedings and in 2008 in civil proceedings. Those qualifications have enabled me to appear, as an advocate, in the Crown Court. Administrative Court, Divisional Court and Court of Appeal (Criminal Division). In 2017 I was appointed a Deputy District Judge (Magistrates’ Courts) and in 2019 a Fee Paid Tribunal Judge in the Social Entitlement Chamber.
After serving as President, I remained on the BLS Council until issues arose on the board during the pandemic, and I was asked to assist. Therefore, after 31 years on the Council, I retired and was appointed to the board. When my term ended in 2024, I felt the board had changed significantly since I joined, so I chose not to seek another term. The Society today is more vibrant than ever, putting on a vast number of events for its members to enjoy and make those all important contacts which last a professional lifetime.
In 2021 a further honour was bestowed on me by the Society by kindly giving me a Lifetime Achievement Award. I remain engaged with the BLS and I am still a member of its Criminal Law Committee. I have attended many of the Society’s events. I have contributed to many representations in its name. I have enjoyed the friendships created with other members and officers. I have made many contacts which has resulted in me recommending potentials to other lawyers I knew I could trust in the relevant area of expertise and I have had many clients referred to me by the same or different contacts I have made. I could not have done any of these things without the support of my late parents, my wife and my partners.
It has been incredibly rewarding in so many ways and I am not giving up now.
Friday 16th May | Macdonald Burlington Hotel
7pm - 11pm followed by after party
£55 +VAT students | £70 +VAT members | £80 +VAT non-members
Step into an evening of elegance and opportunity at our Alternative Dinner for junior lawyers! This is your chance to network with industry leaders, connect with your peers, and celebrate the journey you’ve embarked on in the legal profession.
Don’t miss this unforgettable night to enjoy yourself with a mix of professional growth, dining, comedy and a touch of glamour. Your next big opportunity could be just a conversation away!
Special guest to be announced...!
Click here for more details and to book your tickets.
and are not going to let up!
One cannot help but notice the headlines lately regarding the SRA’s latest fines for breaches of the AML regulationsfines that impact firms large and small writes Rebecca Atkinson of McArthur Atkinson, a legal practice offering risk and compliance advisory services.
In March this year, US firm Simpson Thatcher & Bartlett were hit with a £300,000 fine plus a £62,000 payment towards the SRA’s legal costs for failing to have a firm wide risk assessment between June 2017 and March 2020, as well as between June 2017 and October 2022 not having compliant client and/or matter risk assessments in relation to four files and between June 2017 and January 2023 not having fully compliant policies, controls and procedures. As is par for the course, no money laundering did in fact occur, but that matters not, the risk, says the SRA, of not having a firm wide risk assessment and compliant policies, controls and
procedures is that it increases the risk of money laundering occurring.
This penalty is one of the biggest since Clyde & Co were fined £500,000 in January 2024 for failing to conduct updated due diligence on a corporate client for many years. This follows a fine of £50,000 for Clyde & Co a few years earlier in 2017 for AML and accounts rules failures. The circumstances around the fine in 2024 appear to be a ‘I thought you did that job’ position with the firm pointing the finger at a former Partner and the Partner saying he believed his team had checked the client out. A classic case it seems of when systems and processes are not robust. It is important to note that the facts of this particular matter relate back a good few years and the SRA took an incredible 4 years to bring the case to the Tribunal. It is fair to say that all firms’ compliance gets better and better and no doubt Clyde & Co is a totally different firm today on the compliance front to what it was back then.
Fines do not just affect the big firms. They have a massive impact on small
firms too. As reported by the Law Society Gazette on 10 March 2025 (https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/ high-profile-solicitor-to-quit-uk-aftersra-fine/5122606.article) Underwoods Solicitors, founded 30 years ago, has decided to close its doors after being fined £5,468 for failing to have on 8 files client and matter risk assessments. The allegations were not denied but the firm was of the view that fighting the SRA would financially ruin any small or medium sized firm. The firm’s founder commented that the regulatory regime in the UK ‘was determined to crush all small and medium sized firms of solicitors.’ He did say that he did not blame the SRA but placed the responsibility upon the law makers. Some might find routine client and matter risk assessments tedious. However, it really only takes a lot of time if the matter is high risk and enhanced due diligence is needed and that might have been the problem here...
Finally, one of the biggest headlines to hit is the Dentons case. You may recall the Tribunal dismissed the case brought against Dentons in March 2024 regarding a client relationship
between 2013 and 2017. The reason for the dismissal was that the Tribunal held the 14 breaches of the AML regulations were inadvertent and ‘fell within the small category of cases where wrongdoing did not amount to professional conduct’. The SRA appealed to the High Court which agreed with the SRA stating ‘there is no universal requirement that breaches of the principles and the outcomes can only be established where the requirements of seriousness, culpability and reprehensible conduct are met. Such requirements only arise where they are inherent in the rule in question.’ Further the Judge said that the only evaluation required by the Tribunal was whether or not the firm had complied with the AML regulations. She also found that the Tribunal had established breaches of the 2011 SRA Principle 7 (you must comply with your legal and regulatory obligations) and Outcome 7.5 of the 2011 SRA Code of Conduct (you comply with legislation applicable to your business, including anti-money laundering and data protection legislation) when it made a finding that breaches of the AML regulations had occurred. The
Tribunal had erred, said the Judge, in inferring into those rules an additional requirement of seriousness, culpability and reprehensible conduct to be met. Finally, the Judge commented that the Tribunal’s findings that Denton’s breaches were inadvertent, committed in good faith and its praise for its improved AML systems and controls were all mitigation but not justification for dismissal of the allegations and so ordered the case against Dentons to be remitted to the Tribunal for rehearing. So hang on, are we now in strict liability territory? It seems so. The Tribunal could always be trusted to recognise whether a breach was a risk to the public and deserved a sanction but it appears that the Administrative Court has disregarded the Tribunal’s sensible approach. Will Dentons appeal? Let’s wait and see.
So where is all this heading?
You will recall that the SRA consulted on its new power gifted by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 to issue unlimited fines for economic crimes (removing its current cap of £25k).
The SRA has proposed 2 additional fining bands (utilised to determine what level of fine firms and individuals should receive) instead of going full hog and proceeding with unlimited fining power. But before we get there a little recap.
The SRA has the power to fine on an unlimited basis where it finds a failure on the part of a firm or individual in respect of the following:
a) the prevention or detection of economic crime; or if
b) the failure consisted of an act or omission which had the effect of inhibiting the prevention or detection of economic crime.
The definition of economic crime under the Act is an act which:
a) constitutes an offence listed in Schedule 11 (‘a listed offence’)
b) constitutes an attempt, conspiracy or incitement to commit a listed offence, or
c) would constitute a listed offence or an offence specified in paragraph (b) if done in the United Kingdom.
A Schedule 11 offence includes offences such as cheating the public revenue, theft, false accounting, dishonestly retaining wrongful credit, forgery, offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 or the Terrorism Act 2000, fraud, bribery and very importantly for law firms, failing to adhere to the requirements laid out in the AML regulations (i.e. an offence under regulation 86).
So, does this mean then that if the SRA audits a firm and finds client and matter risk assessments are missing or the firm does not have a compliant firm wide risk assessment we are in the territory of unlimited fines?
Yes, in theory it does. Also now, given the Denton’s case, subject to any appeal they may undertake, even if firms or individuals are referred to the Tribunal for AML regulatory breaches (which the SRA may now not need to because its fining powers are so extensive) it is looking like strict liability.
You either have or you have not breached the AML regulations and the reasons and inadvertent nature of any breach is just mitigation.
The SRA’s proposed additional fining bands will see firms fined between 11% and over 25% of their domestic turnover and individuals up to 1.5x their annual salary. Word is, the SRA is pressing ahead with these changes and with the possibility of being fined heavily for what are essentially minor breaches, I wonder if firms would be wise to put it in the budget (I jest of course).
