Clerks
& Contact

Lead Criminal & Regulatory Clerk

Liam joined Chambers in August 2010 as an Office Junior after leaving school at 17. He has held a number of positions in Chambers before becoming a Criminal Clerk in 2014. In 2017 Liam became our Lead Criminal and Regulatory Clerk. In this role, Liam is responsible for the Practice Management and Development of all members within his Team. This includes fee negotiation, diary management and business development across the group.

Legal 500 2025

'Liam Gorman is courteous, helpful and highly efficient'.

Chambers & Partners 2025

"Lead criminal and regulatory clerk Liam Gorman is very efficient, charming and courteous. He always finds someone for you."

Legal 500 2024

‘Liam Gorman and Chris Gibbin are always on hand to deal with last minute issues, and have an excellent working relationship with local courts.’

Chambers & Partners 2024

‘Trinity Chambers has one of the best set of clerks in the North East Circuit. Liam Gorman is the lead criminal and regulatory clerk.’

Legal 500 2023

‘Clerks are attentive and quick to get back to you. Liam Gorman can sort any problem out quickly.’

Legal 500 2022

'The clerks, in particular the lead criminal clerk Liam Gorman, are excellent. Incredibly helpful and friendly and always respond quickly to queries. Have never had a problem with the service they provide, and they make everything very easy.'

'The criminal team is run to perfection by Liam Gorman.'

'Liam Gorman is a fantastic friendly clerk always willing to help.'

Chambers & Partners 2022

'The lead criminal clerk Liam Gorman is particularly good.'

'We receive exemplary service.'

Lead Family Clerk

Steve Preen joined Trinity in October 2011 after earning a position of considerable respect in HM Court Service where he worked for 17 years; he has come to Trinity with a very sound knowledge of Court procedures, especially on the Civil side.

Outside of Chambers Steve enjoys playing football at a semi professional level. He has undertaken an FA coaching certificate and coaches youngsters on a voluntary basis at a local club. He also enjoys spending time with his family and two children.

Chambers & Partners 2024

'Steven Preen, lead family clerk, Ken McLafferty, clerk, and Paula McLure, clerk, are excellent. They are always very accommodating and very helpful.'
'Steven Preen, Ken McLafferty and Paula McLure all offer a brilliant service. They are very responsive and go out of their way to assist.'
'Steven Preen and Paula McLure are at the top of their game and will go the extra mile to ensure representation is available.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Steve Preen is fantastic.’
‘Steve Preen is outstanding, he is highly personable and very helpful. A credit to chambers.’

Chambers & Partners 2023

'Steven Preen, lead family clerk, and Ken McLafferty, clerk, are particularly responsive to any queries and are always very accommodating.'

Legal 500 2023

‘Extremely friendly and helpful.’‘The clerks provide a good service; Steven Preen and Paula McLure are always incredibly helpful and respond quickly to requests.’ ‘Steven Preen is friendly and approachable, and there to help where he can.’

Legal 500 2022

'The family clerking is led by the dynamic Steven Preen and the unflappable Ken McLafferty who compliment each other to great effect.'

'Ken McLafferty and Steve Preen are excellent. They are friendly, accommodating and efficient.'

Lead Employment Clerk & Civil Clerk

Josh joined Trinity in 2020 as a Clerk on the Civil team after working for 5 years in business management. The transferable skills gained have enabled him to make this change in career and given him the chance to revert back to his university degree in Philosophy and Theology.

Within the Civil clerking, Josh heads up the clerking of the Employment Law team. 

Outside of Chambers Josh enjoys playing football and following his beloved Newcastle United where he has had a season ticket since he was a young boy. He also enjoys playing music as part of a band, predominantly playing drums but plays piano and sax as well.

Chambers & Partners 2024

'The service from the clerks is first rate. There is never any delay in replying to correspondence and they are always very helpful. Josh Stewart-Tilling is the lead employment clerk.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Paul McNab, Aimee Bloxham and Josh Stewart-Tilling are always on the end of the phone or email to help us find barristers with availability, even at short notice.’

Legal 500 2023

‘Clerking is first class. Steve Walker and Josh Stewart-Tilling provide a quick and helpful service.’

Lead Civil Clerk

Steve joined Trinity Chambers in 2018 as Civil Clerk. He has worked in the legal industry for over 20 years, initially as a Litigation Executive at a number of firms in Manchester and then, from 2004, as a Clerk at leading sets in Manchester, London and Newcastle. Having worked as a litigator for many years prior to becoming a clerk, Steve is acutely aware of the pressures Chambers’ clients work under and goes out of his way to ensure the service they get from Chambers goes beyond that of our competitors.

As well as day to day management of the civil diary Steve is heavily involved in business development and client relationship management for the Civil Team. He is always more than happy to discuss with clients how Chambers, Members of Chambers and the Clerks might tailor the service we offer to best suit your needs.

Legal 500 2025

'Steve Walker is the perfect clerk'
'Steve Walker is a personable and sensible clerk'

Chambers & Partners 2024

'Trinity has a really good clerking team. I deal mostly with Steve Walker, lead civil clerk, who is a pleasure to deal with. He and the rest of his team are very approachable and responsive.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Steven Walker is excellent.’
‘Steve Walker and Paul McNab are always friendly, approachable and make excellent suggestions as to which counsel may be best suited for a particular matter.’

Chambers & Partners 2023

'Steve Walker has a very good knowledge of the market. He is a very helpful clerk.' 'Steve Walker is very responsive and helpful.'

Legal 500 2023

‘Steve Walker has always been efficient and helpful.’ ‘All of the clerks are responsive and helpful. Steven Walker is superb.’ ‘Steven Walker will go above and beyond for his clients ensuring that instructing solicitors are matched with the right barrister matching their skill set for the matter.’ ‘Clerking is first class. Steve Walker and Josh Stewart-Tilling provide a quick and helpful service.’ 

Chambers & Partners 2022

'Steve Walker is responsive and very helpful.' 'Steve Walker is very hard-working and does a good job looking after the barristers.' 'Steve Walker is very proactive, easy to talk to and will sort things out if we need any help.'

Legal 500 2022

'Steve Walker is excellent. He takes the time to understand the problem and works around the clock to ensure expectations are met.'

Clerk

Chris had over 9 years experience as a Senior Clerk in a barristers chambers in Middlesbrough before joining Trinity Chambers. Prior to that Chris worked in the Lord Chancellors Department, now HM Courts and Tribunals Service, at Teesside Combined Court Centre for over 10 years. During that time Chris covered most areas but the majority of his experience was gained in dealing with Criminal and Family Law matters. Chris’ latter years in the LCD were spent in the Listing Office at Teesside Crown Court where he developed his skills which ultimately saw him transferring to his role in a barristers chambers.

Chris is a member of the Institute of Barristers Clerks.

Outside of work Chris enjoys playing cricket for Marske Cricket Club in the North Yorkshire and South Durham League, watching football and rugby and socialising.

Legal 500 2025

'Chris Gibbin can only be described as outstanding - an unsung hero! He is a great ambassador for Trinity Chambers'

Legal 500 2024

‘Liam Gorman and Chris Gibbin are always on hand to deal with last minute issues, and have an excellent working relationship with local courts.’

Legal 500 2022

'Chris Gibbin is an extremely helpful and experienced clerk.'

'The Teesside branch is spearheaded by Chris Gibbin who is extremely helpful and efficient.'

Chambers & Partners 2022

'I cannot fault the clerking services – Chris Gibbin in Middlesbrough is very helpful, offers prompt responses and is always willing to assist.'

Civil & Criminal Silks' Clerk

Paul joined Trinity Chambers in March 2020 following the closure of Zenith Chambers.

Paul has a wealth of experience in the legal profession having commenced his career in the late 80's and qualified as a legal executive in the early 90's whilst working for one of the countries largest criminal law firms dealing with serious criminal cases before moving to Number One Fountain Court in Birmingham as the Senior Clerk. Following the merger of Number One with St Philips Chambers in 2002 Paul became the Senior Criminal Clerk looking after what was then the largest criminal team in the country at the time.

Paul took almost a decade away from clerking during which he was the Chief Executive of an International Law firm specialising in domestic and international public law and human rights law adding a range of business and management skills to his CV before returning to the Bar in 2017 as the Senior Civil Clerk at Zenith Chambers in Leeds.

Away from Chambers, Paul can be found on the sidelines at Five Ways Old Eds RFC where he played second row for many decades, or coaching the age grade players at Old Halesonians RFC. When not coaching rugby, Paul is a season ticket holder at Bristol Bears (following the demise of Wasps) and religiously follows Ireland Rugby home and away where he enjoys the occasional "sociable pint"! With more time on his hands Paul plans to learn his native Irish language in 2025!

Chambers & Partners 2025

"Paul McNab is one of the best clerks we deal with. He is a credit to the chambers."

Legal 500 2025

'The clerks' room is excellent. Paul McNab goes the extra mile to assist us and ensures that we always have access to counsel.'

'Steve Walker and Paul McNab are very responsive and a pleasure to deal with.'

Chambers & Partners 2024

'Paul McNab is always available, commercial and pragmatic.'
'Paul McNab, clerk, is the go-to person. If Paul can't do it no one can. He is the finest clerk I have worked with. He's an asset to the chambers.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Paul McNab, Aimee Bloxham and Josh Stewart-Tilling are always on the end of the phone or email to help us find barristers with availability, even at short notice.’
‘Steve Walker and Paul McNab are always friendly, approachable and make excellent suggestions as to which counsel may be best suited for a particular matter.’
‘Paul McNab is always available and always willing to assist where he can.’

Chambers & Partners 2023

'Paul McNab, clerk, is excellent and has never let me down.'

Legal 500 2023

‘Clerks are approachable and accommodating.’‘Paul McNab – contactable, adaptable, and provides a good service.’‘Paul McNab is responsive, professional and knowledgeable.’

Chambers & Partners 2022

'Paul McNab is an excellent clerk. He's responsive, reliable and personable.'

Direct Access Clerk

Fiona joined Trinity Chambers in 2007 after an established career in some of Scotland's top hotels and restaurants.

After gaining a BA in Hotel Catering and Management, Fiona progressed with her Food and Beverage Management career and on moving to the North East, she became one half of a North Yorkshire restaurant.

Fiona is Chambers Direct Access clerk and has found that her previous experience has stood her in good stead being in a client focused role. Fiona also looks after Chambers Governance and Compliance, and collates Chambers submissions for the Legal Directories. 

Outside Chambers Fiona and her Labrador Olly volunteer with Wag & Co North East Friendship Dogs.

Family Clerk

Paula joined Trinity in June 2016 after 26 years in HM Court Service where she reached a position of considerable respect as the Civil and Family Listing Officer for Northumbria, skills which have stood her in good stead in her new role. Paula has come to Trinity with a very sound knowledge of Court procedures, especially with regard to listing.

Outside of Chambers Paula enjoys travelling and spending time with her family and friends.

Chambers & Partners 2024

'Steven Preen, lead family clerk, Ken McLafferty, clerk, and Paula McLure, clerk, are excellent. They are always very accommodating and very helpful.'
'Steven Preen, Ken McLafferty and Paula McLure all offer a brilliant service. They are very responsive and go out of their way to assist.'
'Steven Preen and Paula McLure are at the top of their game and will go the extra mile to ensure representation is available.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Paula McLure is a huge asset, very professional and flexible.’

Legal 500 2023

‘Extremely friendly and helpful.’‘The clerks provide a good service; Steven Preen and Paula McLure are always incredibly helpful and respond quickly to requests.’ 

Family & Immigration Clerk

Ken joined Trinity in March 2007 after seven years clerking in Durham, culminating in being the Senior Clerk and taking on all the responsibilities so required. Working in Durham gave him the opportunity to return to the city where he spent three years enjoying life under the guise of studying for his degree in Theology and Religious Studies.

When not following the trials and tribulations of his chosen football and baseball teams Ken enjoys cooking and tending to the charges in his allotment - where he fights a losing, and seemingly never-ending, battle against the elements, weeds, and caterpillars.

Chambers & Partners 2024

'Steven Preen, lead family clerk, Ken McLafferty, clerk, and Paula McLure, clerk, are excellent. They are always very accommodating and very helpful.'
Steven Preen, Ken McLafferty and Paula McLure all offer a brilliant service. They are very responsive and go out of their way to assist.'

Chambers & Partners 2023

'Steven Preen, lead family clerk, and Ken McLafferty, clerk, are particularly responsive to any queries and are always very accommodating.'

Legal 500 2022

'The family clerking is led by the dynamic Steven Preen and the unflappable Ken McLafferty who compliment each other to great effect.'

'Ken McLafferty and Steve Preen are excellent. They are friendly, accommodating and efficient.'

Civil Clerk

Aimee joined Trinity in 2021 as a Junior Clerk within the Civil team, after 1 year of working as a litigation paralegal in a well-regarded, Newcastle based law firm. Here she developed an eye for detail and great organisational skills, moreover she gained a sound understanding of court procedures and litigation paperwork.

Aimee achieved a first-class BA (Honours) degree in Children and Young People from Newcastle College University Centre in 2019. She completed a dissertation on the advantages and challenges of standardised testing in primary schools and comparatively researched the difference between testing in both Year 2 and Year 6. While studying for her BA degree, Aimee worked in a nursery for 2 years where she was able to enhance her communication skills and teamworking abilities.

Outside of chambers Aimee enjoys walking her dog along the beach, socialising with friends, and travelling.

Legal 500 2025

'Aimee Bloxham is an absolute asset to chambers and has a great rapport with solicitors.'

Legal 500 2024

‘Paul McNab, Aimee Bloxham and Josh Stewart-Tilling are always on the end of the phone or email to help us find barristers with availability, even at short notice.’

Criminal & Regulatory Clerk

Chloe joined Chambers in November 2010 as an office junior after leaving school at 17.

She has held a number of positions in Chambers before becoming a Criminal & Regulatory Clerk in March 2022.

Chloe is responsible for the general day to day management of the Criminal and Regulatory teams' administrative activities.

Outside of work Chloe enjoys socialising with friends and spending time with her young family.

Family & Court of Protection Clerk

Erin joined Chambers in December 2023 after 15 years working as a Legal Secretary, 9 of which spent working as a PA in a busy family department in a well-regarded Newcastle based Law Firm.  During this time she developed great organisational skills, knowledge of Court procedures and family processes.

Outside of Chambers Erin enjoys painting, gardening and walking her dog along the Northumberland coastline.

Criminal & Regulatory Clerk

Edward, known as Ted to those who know him, joined Trinity in 2024 as a Clerk in the Criminal and Regulatory teams after working 5 years in the quality and compliance and the day-to-day coordination and management of operations at a Northeast commercial law firm.

Edward’s interest in law, specifically criminal law, dates back to his university days, where he achieved a 2:1 BA (Hons) degree in Criminology from Liverpool John Moores University in 2018.

Outside of Chambers Edward enjoys long-distance running, socialising with friends and following Middlesbrough Football Club.

Leeds Clerk

Lisa joined Chambers in September 2024, after 6 years clerking the Civil & Family Team at St Paul’s Chambers.

Prior to her clerking experience, Lisa worked in International business for one of the largest retail companies where she gained a wealth of knowledge in business analysis and project management. During this time Lisa learned to deal with different aspects of the business and has used these transferable skills to assist her in her clerking role.

Away from Chambers Lisa coaches an all-girls U7 football team and enjoys spending time with her family.

Legal 500 2022

'Excellent service consistently from Lisa Tyczynska.'

Facilities Manager

Laura joined Trinity Chambers in April 2004 as Front of House and Reception, having previously worked at a solicitor’s office for 2 Years.

Whilst working on Reception, Laura dealt with contractors for Chambers' repair and maintenance works and general office management. Enjoying that side of her role, in 2019 Laura was promoted to Facilities Manager looking after Chambers' four premises in Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Leeds. Laura deals with all the maintenance works, general office duties, day to day running of Chambers and working with contractors on larger repair projects.

Outside of work, Laura likes spending time with her husband Alan and her family, going for walks and out for nice meals.

Reception

Rachel joined Trinity in February 2023 following eleven years at the Newcastle office of a leading national law firm.

Rachel has experience leading a busy Front of House reception team into producing a first-class service to all clients, visitors and staff and she was nominated for an internal award in her previous role in recognition of her service to clients.

Outside of Chambers, Rachel has recently taken up yoga and enjoys walks in the country or at the coast. She also spends time taking care of her two daughters, four grandchildren and her dog. Rachel’s longer-term plans are to tour the UK in a camper van! 

Reception

Dawn joined Trinity Chambers' Reception team in 2023 after spending nearly ten years as Receptionist at the Newcastle offices of two national law firms. Prior to that, Dawn worked in a range of business support roles before qualifying as a Business Travel Consultant dealing with corporate travel for 20 years. 

Outside of work, Dawn enjoys long walks in the Lake District with her husband, spending time with her family and travelling.

Chambers Director

Tim joined Trinity Chambers in 2018 following successful careers in the British Army and in the National Health Service.

Working as part of the senior management team, he is responsible for the operational management and strategic direction of Chambers. He leads on the development of strategy and on marketing and business development plans. He is responsible for all aspects of risk and compliance, as well as the governance of Chambers.

Outside Chambers Tim sits as an independent Non-Executive on the advisory committee of one of the pre-eminent providers of tax, customs and SPV services for aircraft owners operating in Europe and he also sits on the board of Trustees of a military charity.

Beyond work, Tim enjoys spending time in the countryside with his young family and he lists military history, skiing and surfing among his interests. In 2010 he was appointed MBE for service on military operations.