Legal changes mean 
opportunities and 
challenges ahead

The biggest development is currently happening, with all the changes in legislation in respect of ABS (alternative business structures) and judicial reform.

These are creating significant opportunities and challenges to the legal profession all at the same time, though we see it much more as the former.

There will be some consolidation in the marketplace and challenges from non-traditional competitors.

What law would you like to see changed?

An enforcement provision in the Party Wall Act 1996.

It is incredibly difficult to explain to clients that there isn’t one – and it is not the most exciting Act ever drafted!

I suppose it is indicative of the fact that clients should not mix common sense and property law.

What is the most exciting work you’ve ever done?

In terms of case work, a high value claim involving offshore trusts and a current appearance in the Court of Appeal on a major insurance case.

In general terms, working with institutional clients to provide solutions which meet their legal needs, such as with the 24/7 legal helpline.

Who in the legal world do you most admire?

A couple of unnamed commercial QCs on confidential matters. To work closely with people of that intellect is a rare privilege.

What advice would you give someone just starting out in the legal profession?

Be patient and, more importantly, flexible in your career aspirations. The legal world is changing so fast.