Tell us a little about yourself and your practice.
“I came directly to the Bar after my law degree; I was absolutely certain it was what I wanted. The first five years I spent in criminal courts, honing advocacy. Criminal work teaches quick thinking and the importance of earning your client’s trust very fast, often in difficult circumstances. My practice over the last 20 years has been principally in the fields of personal injury, civil fraud and credit hire. I maintain the view that a really good advocate should be able to turn their hand to anything.”
What is your first memory of wanting to be a barrister?
“As a boy, I watched an old advocate in my local court conduct a really effective cross-examination. He was like a cat with a mouse, and I was spellbound. He demonstrated the power and efficiency of fewer words, carefully selected. ”
Is there a certain case that stands out to you in your career? If yes, why?
“Early on, I defended a vulnerable person accused of killing someone in an accident. I could see how some people’s prejudice was interfering with a proper understanding of the facts. It had to be confronted. There have been other cases that are significant to me, but it was that early one that gave me a certain determination to continue.”
What is your favourite thing about being a barrister?
“The winning – always. No two cases are ever quite the same and that serves to keep things interesting.”
What do you do to relax?
“My four-year-old keeps me very busy. I have studied the piano for a long time since I was young, so I play music with her now, and I make photographs the old way with film and chemistry.”
If you weren’t a barrister, what would you be?
“If I could have seen out my days giving concerts, I would love that.”
