Barristers at Trinity across several practice groups, operating from chambers in Newcastle and Middlesbrough, have again been recognised in the recently published 2013 edition of Chambers & Partners "A Client's Guide to the Legal Profession". Barristers in Trinity's Business, Chancery, Criminal, Employment, Family and Ancillary Relief, and Licensing groups have been mentioned. More barristers and entries have been included in the 2013 edition than in any previous years for Trinity.
Family
“Trinity Chambers has a strong group of family law practitioners, including James Richardson, who is "one of the standout ancillary practitioners in the North East." He easily wins over clients, who note "his ability to go the extra mile and to turn first-class work around quickly." Also at Trinity Chambers is Christopher Knox, who is a noted expert in high-value provision cases. Commentators praise his powerful advocacy and considerable experience in the field. His colleague Timothy Spain is a favourite of instructing solicitors, who note that "he is consistently excellent with clients, is first-class in his preparation and is always prepared to make himself available." Another of the set's key family law practitioners is Lesley McKenzie, an experienced barrister with expertise spanning the full range of family law issues. Nicola Shaw impresses commentators with her "very holistic approach; she's hugely thorough, and understands all the practical implications of the case." Her stable-mate Nicholas Stonor "is well regarded amongst the judiciary for his expertise and handling of children matters." He also draws considerable praise from clients for "his relaxed and comfortable style."”
Crime
“The geographical coverage of this set is very wide, and its barristers are to be found throughout the North East, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Durham and Teesside. The set itself is divided between Newcastle and Middlesbrough.”
“Head of chambers Toby Hedworth QC has experience of the most technical elements of criminal law, including the conduct of human rights and appellate cases in the higher courts. Recent highlights of his practice include acting for the defence in R v Northey, a murder case that went to the Court of Appeal. Described as "the leading figure in the North East," he is someone opponents claim worries them when they see him on the other side.”
“Christopher Knox is a leading junior who is considered a surprising omission from the silks list by QCs. His work has recently included successful actions under the Proceeds of Crime Act. The "eloquent and persuasive" Robert Adams is "well liked by solicitors and the CPS alike," sources indicate. He is well capable of handling even the most tricky cases on his own, and recently successfully did so in a murder case against a silk leading a junior. Unsurprisingly for someone with his military background, he acts in Courts Martial.”
Employment
“Jane Callan, who heads the employment group at Trinity Chambers, has won acclaim for her "exemplary ability to grasp the salient issues" in a case, and for her strength at producing "a clear, concise and well-constructed argument." Simon Goldberg, of the same set, is "able to cut to the heart of the matter – even in the most complex of cases." He undertakes a wide variety of employment briefs, but proves particularly proficient in equality law." Also at Trinity is "future star" Richard Stubbs. Sources were quick to highlight Stubbs' "superb" advocacy and mastery of cases. Highly regarded for his work for claimants in equal pay cases, he maintains a broad employment practice. Completing Trinity's talented bench is "fierce cross-examiner" Jamie Morgan. He has, according to solicitors, "a good appreciation of the wider issues involved in the litigation process."”
Commercial Dispute Resolution
“This set earns market praise and recognition for its "good service ethos and quick turnaround times." Several sources note the approachable, proactive and unstuffy manner shared by members of chambers. Areas of expertise include shareholder, partnership and landlord and tenant disputes. Satisfied solicitors say they consistently return to the set because the "quality of advice, service and clerking is excellent."
"Simon Goldberg has particular expertise in sale of goods, commercial fraud and sports law. He recently represented a claimant in a claim for damages under a contract to purchase a limited edition Porsche car. Sources say he is "a good street fighter who is not frightened of a punch-up in the witness box." Charles Holland is frequently instructed on a range of commercial disputes. He recently handled a professional negligence case brought by a house builder against an environmental consultant. Michelle Temple "gives a Lincoln's Inn service at a Newcastle upon Tyne price," one source said. She is well respected for her work on an array of commercial and construction cases.”
Chancery
“Trinity Chambers' Michelle Temple concentrates on the more traditional elements of chancery work such as real property and contentious trust and probate matters. She recently acted in De Wind v Wedge, a conflict between siblings regarding the sale of their mother's property. One source considers her to be "very prompt, thorough in her advice, and good on the technical points in a case."”
Licensing
“One source said Charles Holland of Trinity Chambers is "inventive, gets facts very quickly and has a nice habit of getting to the heart of what a case is about." He undertakes a variety of work in the field including matters relating to the Licensing Act 2003 and taxi licensing.” Charles Holland was the only barrister listed under Licensing Northern/North Eastern.
Further details including the full Trinity Chambers rankings can be found on the Chambers & Partners' website.
- Monday, November 5, 2012