Chambers’ members and staff warmly welcome Court of Protection and Adult Care barrister, Stephen Williams as a full tenant at Trinity following his recent completion of pupillage.
It was never Stephen’s intention to pursue a career in law. Concerned that he would end up in a ‘desk job’, he had aspirations to become an actor so explored that route including attending an interview at RADA, without success. With an interest in law and following unsuccessful attempts at an acting career, he saw Court as a different stage. He was therefore galvanised to study law at Northumbria University, followed by the BVC.
After leaving University, Stephen decided to cross qualify as a solicitor, enabling him to gain valuable experience practising law, but always with the intention of returning to the Bar in the future. Stephen started practising in Court of Protection work in 2008, when the jurisdiction was still in its infancy, qualified as a solicitor in 2011, and has developed over 13 years' experience in Court of Protection cases representing individuals who lack capacity, as well as family members. Stephen was regularly instructed by the Official Solicitor, advocates, RPRs and IMCAs, dealing with a wide range of capacity and best interests cases in relation to matters concerning health and welfare, and across technically challenging and complex issues, including accommodation, care, contact, consenting to sexual relations and consenting to medical treatment.
Having become an established and recognised specialist Court of Protection solicitor in the region, Stephen decided to resume his early career ambition of becoming a barrister. He therefore joined Chambers as a pupil barrister and following his completion of pupillage under the supervision of Katherine Wood, recently became a full tenant at Trinity.
Commenting on his move to Chambers, Stephen said:
‘I chose Trinity for two main reasons. Firstly, I was obviously already aware of Chambers and its excellent reputation, having come across a number of Family Counsel in the Court of Protection, including Nicholas Stonor QC. I had also attended a number of events organised by Chambers and I was very impressed, not just with the physical Chambers but how well organised it seemed.
Secondly, I got a terrific vibe after speaking to Trinity’s members and staff. The discussion around my application and aspirations was very informal, and relaxed, yet professional, it just seemed the right fit.’
Reflecting on the future at Trinity, Stephen added:
‘As for my aspirations for the future, I hope to be able to build a successful practise at Trinity Chambers focusing on Court of Protection work. In addition, longer term, I also have an interest in medical law, contentious probate, defamation and sports law.’
For further details regarding Stephen’s practise, contact Steve Preen from the Court of Protection and Adult Care clerking team, email steve@trinitychambers.co.uk or call 0191 245 9551.