North West Law Focus on long-term profitable delivery of services, not short-term cost reduction September 2014 By Stu Gooderham, Head importantly their people. The big challenge that law of Client Relations, Lexis - You can only reduce admin - firms face in better utilising News Nexis Enterprise Solutions istrative costs by so much their human resources is a and in no circumstance lack of actionable informa - Competition in the UK mid- must cost savings trump tion. Having acquired multi - Gorvins celebrates strong half year tier legal sector is by far the quality of service. ple business applications fiercest and so maintaining over the years across func - results page 6 profitability is proving chal - Law firms need to think be - tions, firms are finding it lenging for law firms. yond short-term cost reduc - hard to get these systems to George Bull, head of profes - tion measures, considering talk to each other, share and Clyde & Co expands page 7 sional practices at Baker Tilly innovative sourcing and assimilate data. All too holds a view that of the 200 procurement techniques, often, law firms are acutely odd mid-tier law firms, only strategic human resource aware that they need to re - Further growth for Citadel Law page 8 50 may survive in the short management, business in - vamp resourcing methods, to medium term. Unlike the telligence and cost/prof - but without an accurate pic - Stu Gooderham larger law firms, the mid-tier itability analysis and an ture of the business, it is category represents overall modern attitude to - neigh impossible to make itable client actually look Catherine Vickerman retires after 34 squeezed margins and wards technology and busi - informed decisions. like, what options are best falling profit per partner ness practices. These will for cross selling services to years in practice page 9 (PEP), a compensation allow firms to build flexibil - Similarly from a manage - other sectors, how can I model that law firms are re - ity and agility into the busi - ment perspective, lack of in - pitch for work knowing luctant to relinquish. Tactics ness – rather than formation is a major what the costs and profit such as downsizing, merger undertaking knee jerk reac - constraint when it comes to margin are, how can I ensure Promotion at Just Costs page 11 and acquisition and cutting tions such as headcount re - strategic decision making. that we use the right people administrative costs have ductions and hastily Often key business perform - of the right matters – should been the typical methods conceived business alliances ance metrics are slow to be be their lifeblood. In reality Features adopted to maintain profits – that don’t necessarily ad - delivered after month and though, responses to these thus far. dress the deep-rooted busi - year end, and even then questions are based on gut ness problems triggered by don’t always contain the rel - instinct rather than logic Talking Heads Henceforth, the impact of the current commercial cli - evant information. When and insightful business intel - cost control alone on organ - mate. lawyers become Practice ligence. A strategic and How is the profession adapting to the isational profitability will be Group Leaders (PGL), typi - structured approach to pric - minimal. This is primarily Better utilisation of human cally there is no training pro - ing, matter planning and E-disclosure reforms?” page 12 due to the fixed nature of resources is imperative. A re - gramme offered to help costing in general is re - the business services cost cent EY survey highlights them become stellar busi - quired. Overtime, the histor - base – premises, deprecia - that staff costs of the top 50 ness managers. Information ical data when analysed will Bringing back old values into the tion of assets, IT infrastruc - UK law firms accounts for 40 such as – which clients are ture, and perhaps most percent of their turnover. profitable, what does a prof - continued on page 4 business of law Julia Baskerville talks to Hugh Jones Warning over the potential financial page 13 fall-out of the Divorce Bill Regulars Divorce proceedings can lies. Legal aid no longer ap - “As anyone who has experi - Manchester Law Society Conferences be complex and emotion - plies to this area of the law enced a divorce will know all page 4 ally draining, but potential so many people are left un - too well, there is no ‘text - changes to family law may represented without a legal book’ case and it may not be Members Reward Card bring further uncertainty steer. feasible to apply a ‘one size when it comes to the finan - fits all’ simplistic formula. A see your latest offers... page 27 cial outcome, according to This brings a lack of clarity husband or wife may have Shelley Hesford, Partner when it comes to interpreta - put their career on hold only and Head of the Family tion of the existing Matrimo - to find that, after a 30 year Monthly Competition team at SAS Daniels LLP . nial Causes Act 1973, which marriage, they will only re - is considered by many to be ceive maintenance for three Verdure Floral Design – Your chance to win a The Divorce (Financial Provi - out of touch. years. Surely a spouse’s bouquet of flowers worth up to £100!! sions) Bill, first introduced by Commenting on the issue greater earning capacity Baroness Deech in February, Shelley Hesford said: “While would have to be taken into page 33 recently received its second Baroness Deech’s call for a account?” reading in the House of more simplistic approach Shelley Hesford Another key factor of the Bill Lords. may seem entirely called for would remove the grey area is the suggestion that both in principle, the reality may around pre-nuptial and pre-nuptial and post-nuptial Baroness Deech believes not be welcomed by many. post-nuptial agreements, agreements are to become that it is urgent for Parlia - The Bill looks to examine provided that certain condi - binding. This, Baroness ment to revisit the law gov - cases on a 50/50 basis, sug - tions are met. While the Bill is Deech argues, would eradi - erning financial provision, gesting that assets acquired still in its early stages, it’s im - cate the horror stories of based on the notion that the before marriage should be portant that people are agreements that are entered law is uncertain and that taken out of the matrimonial aware of the implications into and subsequent costly leading judgments arise pot. In addition, it recom - and that their eyes are wide litigation examining the va - from ‘big money’ cases that mends the duration of open when it comes to the lidity of those agreements. go to appeal but bear no re - spousal maintenance should potential financial sting in lation to low income fami - be limited to three years. Shelley Hesford added: “This the tail.” Single issue £3.50, 12 month subscription £54.00 The Monthly Publication of the Manchester Law Society free to members

Manchester Law Society President’s Column 3 President’s Column The reaction to the memories ever sensitive to our clients’ County Council and Bucking - Indeed, MLS has a number of of World War 1 featured in the requirements and we realise hamshire and Milton Keynes significant conferences and last edition of The Messenger that we cannot offer a skele - Fire Authority. This will start seminars as we enter the au - provoked a significant ton services during the sum - operating on 24 November. tumn. The ever popular per - amount of interest. Many did mer. Perhaps it is time that Interestingly they plans to sonal injury conference will not appreciate the direct im - the court and counsel were offer legal services to other take place on Tuesday 21st pact the Great War had on the alive to the fact that our councils, emergency services October 2014 taking a strate - Manchester legal community clients still need assistance and charities. I understand gic look at the future of the and the long term effect that throughout the summer. I that this is not a one off and sector. The high calibre speak - it would have. My thanks cannot think of any other pro - that several other local au - ers will explore techniques to goes to Julia Baskerville for fession that goes into a lower thorities around the country maximise profitability in light her research and effort in pro - gear during August and I do are looking at this model of cost budgeting. ducing such a superb article. find it hard to square this ap - carefully. proach with a backlog of The MLS employment law The Manchester Law Society cases waiting to be heard and Last time I reported that the conference returns on Thurs - (MLS) weekly email is a suc - orders waiting to be drawn at SRA wanted to reduce the day 23rd October 2014 with a cess. The statistics for the first court but what we can be minimum level of PII cover to mix of presentations and in - two months have shown that sure of is that situation will £500,000. Not only has this teractive workshops. I am de - the email is being opened, not change. suggestion been rejected by lighted that Judge Peter read and forwarded by a far Manchester Law Society but Russell, acting regional em - higher percentage than the What does need to change is now the Council of Mortgage ployment judge for the north national average for such the professions attitude to - Lenders have criticised this west of England, will be deliv - emails and far better than we wards data protection. The In - decision. The Legal Services ering a keynote address on at MLS anticipated. In turn formation Commissioner's Board has decided to extend tribunal practice and reform. this is driving traffic to the Office has warned that solici - the time it will take to review course all Solicitors must this year or not the Manches - MLS web site which has seen tors could face financial and the feeling is that they Concerned by a feeling that complete before the end of ter Law Society professional a significant increase in the penalties of up to £500,000 may reject the proposal alto - trainees are simply not ready the third full CPD year. dinner club will hold its next number of ‘hits’ and shows for data breaches. It has is - gether. for work, at the request of event on Monday 22nd Sep - advertisers that there is signif - sued advice on how to keep members, Manchester Law Together with the annual HR tember at one of Manches - icant benefit in partnering information secure on its I am pleased to report that on Society is holding an inaugu - lunch, courses entitled Man - ter’s newest restaurants ‘Al with MLS. The members of webs site. This is something Thursday 22nd January 2015 ral conference for trainee so - aging your Stars, Steadies and Bacio’. This is a wonderful op - MLS Advantage are already well worth looking at. the president of the Supreme licitors on Friday 3rd October Slackers and explaining social portunity to meet fellow Man - aware of the benefits of part - Court, Lord Neuberger will 2014 with the aim of explain - media will take place. chester professionals, make nering with MLS. The word is The number of alternative address MLS members at a ing what is expected of them There will also be a fatal acci - contacts and exchange busi - spreading. business structures (ABS’s) is keynote lecture. This will be a and what they can expect dent update and Insurance ness cards. increasing. This is not a sur - significant event. Lord Neu - from their employer. Law - better protection for Sadly we are coming towards prise but we have now seen berger is not afraid to speak The annual PA and secretarial consumers will be held on How life changed in 1914. the end of summer but I did the SRA licensing a local au - his mind. His visit is a real conference will take place on Wednesday 17th September Lest we forget. think that the days of barris - thority as an alternative busi - coup for Manchester Law So - Thursday 4th September 2014, a seminar essential for ters bidding farewell to their ness structure. ciety and is bound to be a 2014 and a management all insurance lawyers. David Joseph clerks on the last day of July Buckinghamshire Law Plus successful and well attended stage one course will take President had all but disappeared but it Limited is made up of solici - event. place on Tuesday 16th Sep - Finally, whether you have you seems not. We as solicitors are tors from Buckinghamshire tember This is a compulsory have completed your CPD for Dr Joshua Adedokun MB BS, DA, FCARCSI, FRCA, FFPMRCA Chronic Pain Expert

Dr Adedokun has extensive clinical experience in the management of various chronic pain syndromes including persistent, neck, back and neuropathic or complex regional pain syndrome especially following personal or occupational injuries.

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Contact Person: Jane Griffiths (Medico Legal Manager) Tel: 01625 523355/07946 700859 Email: [email protected] Suite 6, Wilmslow House, Grove Way, Water Lane Wilmslow SK9 5AG 4 Manchester Law Society News News from Bridge Street CPD Programme The 5th annual UK Diversity Legal Management Stage One Awards are now open for submissions Tuesday 16th September CPD: 7 hours Have you or any of your team qualified since 2011? Management Stage 1 is a compulsory course all Solicitors must The UK Diversity Legal Awards are the only industry awards complete before the end of the third full CPD year. Mike Ode of Potential Unearthed will provide delegates with a which focus solely on recognising and promoting; equality, practical foundation of essential management skills. diversity and inclusion, across the legal profession - across Venue: Clarke Willmott LLP, 19 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 1FB all strands of diversity. Registration: 09:15 Training: 09:30-17:30 Cost: Member rate £120.00 + VAT (£144.00 total) Non-member rate £170.00 + VAT (£204.00 total) There are a number of legal organisations in the UK who are progressive and innovative in their approach to finding Insurance Law – Better Protection for Consumers and implementing solutions. So importantly, it is hoped these awards, and the subse - Wednesday 17th September 2014 CPD: 1.5 hours quent sharing of ideas, will help raise standards across the profession, as those making This talk is an essential for all insurance lawyers, as the better protection afforded to consumers under the 2012 Act submissions seek to create ever-more impactful policies, processes and initiatives. presents an entirely novel approach to insurance law. Venue: St John’s Buildings, 24a-28 St John Street, Manchester M3 4DJ The UK Diversity Legal Awards are open to organisations of all sizes and submissions are Registration: 17:30 Seminar: 18:00 – 19:30 welcomed from firms, chambers, in-house legal teams (private and public sector) and Cost: Member rate £20.00 + VAT (£24.00) Non-member rate £40.00 + VAT (£48.00) suppliers to the legal profession.. Annual HR Lunch in association with Manchester Law Society and HR in Law The new dedicated website contains full details about the awards; the history, the cate - Friday 19th September 2014 gories and how to make a submission. Join us for the popular annual lunch for HR professionals with guest speakers including Christine Heyting, Change Management Consultant for the United Nations. A black-tie event, the awards will be presented at a special dinner which will take place Venue: The Lowry Hotel, Manchester, M3 5LH on Tuesday 18th November 2014 at the Grange Tower Bridge Hotel in London. The host Registration: 11:30 Lunch: 12:15 – 16:00 for the evening will be BBC radio and TV presenter Zeinab Badawi. Cost: MLS or HR in Law Member rate £40.00 + VAT (£48.00) Non-member rate £50.00 + VAT (£60.00) The deadline for entries is 4pm on Friday 19th September 2014. Fatal Accidents Update Wednesday 1st October 2014 CPD: 3 hours The UK Diversity Legal Awards is a BSN initiative. Are you aware of the latest changes to fatal accidents litigation? Join us for a comprehensive update on practice and damages which will guide you all the way through the conduct of a fatal accident claim from the perspective For more information visit: www.diversitylegalawards.co.uk of both the claimant and defendant lawyer. Venue: JMW Solicitors LLP, 1 Byrom Place, Manchester, M3 3HG Meeting room for hire on Bridge Street Registration: 09:00 Seminar: 09:30 – 13:00 pm Cost: Member rate £45.00 + VAT (£54.00) Non-member rate £65.00 + VAT (£78.00) Manchester Law Society has a small meeting room for up to 10 people which is available to hire. Free hire of the room for members of the Society, Trainee Solicitors Conference £13.95 + VAT per hour or part thereof for non members. Friday 3rd October 2014 CPD: 5 hours Contact Manchester Law Society on 0161 831 7337 for bookings or for more Set your new Trainees up for success with advice on how to build their profile, techniques for effective networking information. as well as methods for managing stress and workload successfully. Providing an opportunity for local Trainee Solici - tors to build a support network and prepare for their roles ahead, this conference is one not to miss. Venue: BPP Law School, St James’s Building, 79 Oxford Street, Manchester M1 6FQ Registration: 09:00 Conference: 09:30 – 16:30 Cost: Member rate £60.00 + VAT (£72.00) Non-member rate £90.00 + VAT (£108.00) Get Social and Engage: Explaining Social Media Thursday 9th October 2014 CPD: 2 hours Do you know how to engage with social media, use it to increase your industry profile and win work? Discover the benefits of embracing social media be that Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook or Google Plus, and find out which plat - forms are most appropriate for your needs. Registration: 08:00 Seminar: 08:30-10:30 Cost: Member rate £20.00 + VAT (£24.00) Non-member rate £40.00 + VAT (£48.00) Managing your Stars, Steadies and Slackers Wednesday 15th October 2014 CPD: 1.5 Hours continued from front cover Managing the stars, steadies and slackers who sit within your teams can be fraught with difficulty if you take your throw up significant insight especially on large matters hensibly is of great value. eye off the ball. In this seminar Mike Ode of Potential Unearthed tackles how to manage these people head on. into the profitability, process where fee earners throw Venue: Brown Shipley, 3 Hardman Street, Manchester, M3 3HF inadequacies and areas for their time and expenses into To a large extent, most of Registration: 08:00 Seminar: 08:30 – 10:30 cost improvement. the bucket hoping to look the above mentioned chal - Cost: Member rate £20.00 + VAT (£24.00) Non-member rate £40.00 + VAT (£48.00) utilised. lenges can be overcome by Additionally, the conse - the adoption widely preva - Personal Injury Conference quences of inconsistent and Procurement is another area lent approaches to business Tuesday 21st October 2014 CPD: 5.5 hours inaccurate data are wider that law firms must nail. Due practices and technology. Join expert speakers as they debate the future of the PI sector, how to market firms and secure work. The afternoon still and proliferate through to disjointed systems, leak - Today, mid-tier law firms de - will focus on cost budgeting with an update from a District Judge, sessions will also be exploring techniques to the firm. A simple task such age is a major issue for law ploy a wide variety of tech - as raising an invoice I’m told firms. How many times does maximise profitability and the future of funding. nology systems, but truly Venue: Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ can take between two to it happen that costs of third integrating the systems has three days because data is party services are not in - been a longstanding chal - Registration: 09:00 Conference: 09:30 – 17:00 not only difficult to acquire, cluded in a client invoice? lenge. On top of this, trying Cost: Member rate £150.00 + VAT (£180.00) Non-member rate £175.00 + VAT (£210.00) but is handled so many Subsequently trying to re - to add new business times in multiple locations cover the cost after the mat - Employment Law Conference processes further com - Thursday 23rd October 2014 CPD: 4 hours that inaccuracies creep in. ter has closed is not only pounds the problem. With This unnecessary time spent seldom successful, but many large law firms strug - Judge Peter Russell, Acting Regional Employment Judge for the North West of England, will be delivering a keynote on raising invoices is a cost causes much angst to clients gling to harmonise their sys - address on tribunal practice and reform at this annual conference. The programme also includes a range of interac - to the firm. The billing guide and the firm. At the very tems and processes (despite tive workshops on a variety of topical issues. remains everyone’s worst least, control and visibility of the large budgets), for mid- Venue: Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ nightmare and partners reg - the purchasing process – tier firms, it simply isn’t a vi - Registration: 08:30 ularly receive 60-70 emails from requesting a purchase able option. A single Conference: 09:00 – 13:30 per day from credit control order through to accounts working platform that ties in Cost: MLS Members £45.00 + VAT (£54.00) Non-members £65.00 + VAT (£78.00) that they don’t read as they payable – is a must. Going a all the facets of business de - are cynical about the data step further, for procuring livers immediate efficien - Dates for your diary: accuracy around invoicing. matter specific resources, cies, which in turn enhances • 25th November: Travel Law Conference Furthermore, reconciling ex - such as staff counsel or new profitability, and most im - • 27th November: Surveillance v Privacy in the Workplace penses against matters staff with specific expertise, portantly benefits clients when the data is stored in integrated asset manage - too. A client-centric and an Keep up to date with the latest event information at www.manchesterlawsociety.org.uk or follow us different systems and for - ment capability that looks at astute commercial approach on Twitter @ManLawSoc mats is another challenge – business resources compre - will deliver long term gains. To book a place on any of the above events, please email [email protected] Regulatory Affairs Committee Update

August was a packed month licitors out there who will be the following: or parading in front of future it will enhance or devalue for the regulated commu - rather offended at the news • the ways in which regula - employers to secure that the currently coveted badge nity. Not in the least because that the ICAEW has decided tion can reduce the risk of elusive apprenticeship. I of solicitor. Buckinghamshire County that accountants, in order to claims arising; wonder how much this will Council and HB Public Law be deemed competent to • the extent to which the loss change in the next few years And finally….. (a joint venture between provide probate services, arising from claims should as the SRA seeks to turn its Harrow and Barnet council only need to attend a 2-day be apportioned between in - Training for Tomorrow pol - The Law Society has re - in London) became the first course and achieve a 50% surers, the Compensation icy into a reality. leased a new practice note and second local authorities pass mark. That puts law Fund, firms and claimants; on Mortgage Fraud which is to gain ABS licences from school in perspective! • the impact of the PII Mini - In August the SRA an - primarily aimed at con - the SRA. So, without further mum Terms and Conditions; nounced that it is working veyancers and contains a ado lets get cracking…. What’s happening with • the extent to which insur - to articulate the standard of rather sombre reminder that professional indemnity ance cover should be more competence that junior practitioners personally risk New chief executive for cover? closely aligned to the nature lawyers will need to meet in finding themselves at the the law society of the legal services pro - order to be entered onto the wrong end of the law if their We are all poised and wait - vided; and Roll. This is somewhat imag - clients go down this route. The Law Society has chosen ing to see what will happen • the extent to which client inatively entitled “Threshold Remember, the anti-money to appoint Catherine Dixon with solicitors’ PII and al - protection arrangements Standard” and requires 1000 laundering offences and the Michelle Garlick to replace Des Hudson as its though renewal season is in are understood by con - regulated individuals cho - wide definition of fraud in Chair, Manchester Law chief executive. Her exact full swing things remain sumers and are a driver of sen at random to complete a the Fraud Act 2006 means Society Regulatory Affairs start date is not yet known very much in the air and consumer behaviour. survey which is available to that it is possible to be held Committee but it is anticipated that she there are no guarantees that view on its website. It will be accountable even if you Weightmans LLP will take up her new posi - it is going to be a softer mar - Contributions can be sub - interesting to see how the were unaware of the fraud tion once she has finished ket this time round. We mitted to the SRA from 1 Au - profession will respond to and did not actively partici - working her notice at the know the SRA wants to drop gust – 30 September 2014 the SRA moving away from a pate in it. The note sum - NHS Litigation Authority. the mandatory level of pro - and I encourage anyone prescriptive pathway to marises the primary There is no doubt that fessional indemnity cover who has something to say qualification i.e. degree, CPE, methodology used by crim - Catherine’s pedigree as a but the LSB remains to be on the subject to make LPC, training contact to inals, the red flags to bear in lawyer working both in pri - convinced and has ex - themselves known to the something that may in an - mind and some practical vate practice and in-house tended its decision-making SRA. I think that the SRA other 5 years be unrecognis - pointers to reduce the risk of will help her to establish period until 8 October 2014. might have been taken able from the current your firm being targeted by credibility quickly in her new With many firms still work - aback by the response from system and whether or not fraudsters. role and we wish her the ing to a 1 October renewal conveyancers and lenders to very best. date, the decision may not what they had assumed was be published in time for going to be a crowd pleaser. Accountants v solicitors them to benefit from any After all – lower cover changes to the mandatory should mean lower premi - It is official. The Institute of level of cover. That said, ums and there is not a law Chartered Accountants in even if firms can in theory firm out there that does not England and Wales (ICAEW) drop the level of cover it have something to say has now been granted the may not be appropriate or about the cost of profes - power to regulate probate possible for them to do so. sional indemnity insurance. and authorise alternative Sadly ensuring that clients business structures and ac - The SRA has issued ‘a call for have the appropriate level of cording to the regulator the evidence’ which sounds ter - protection is never going to first licence could be issued ribly exciting but is, in fact, be as simple as assuming it as early as next month. just the authority’s latest in - is acceptable to drop cover ICAEW has confirmed that formation-gathering exer - to the de minimis and pre - its ABSs will be subject to cise on the back of the major liminary indications are that the legal ombudsman’s ju - programme of regulatory re - many clients will refuse to risdiction and required to form it announced back in accept a lower level of cover carry at least £500,000 of the spring. If you recall, the than currently enjoyed. professional indemnity SRA’s aim is to find a balance cover. I am sure that private between adequate protec - The future of the training client departments in law tion for consumers and a re - contract firms up and down the duced regulatory burden for country will be monitoring law firms. This call for evi - No-one can have missed the situation to see if there is dence focuses on how client that training contract sea - a discernable impact on the protection is achieved son has come around again. number of instructions re - through the compensation Traditionally the summer ceived in relation to probate fund and professional in - months have been filled matters. I am also sure that demnity insurance. Specifi - with hopefuls completing there will be a number of so - cally the SRA is asking about vacation placements in firms

The Law Society appoints Catherine Dixon as Chief Executive

Catherine Dixon will join the Law Society in the next few months and as soon as she has worked her notice period with the NHS LA. Interim arrangements are being made and will be announced shortly.

Catherine Dixon said:”I am excited and feel very honoured to be joining the Law Society. I am committed to ensuring that the Law Society has a strong voice for all our members. I want to help the organisation represent, promote and support the profession across the spectrum of practice, speaking up for them and creating an environment in which the en - tire profession can flourish.' 6 Movers & Shakers Stephensons reaches shortlist for Two new associates at Hugh Jones Hugh Jones Solicitors, Family Law Accolade Manchester, the North The Family department at ment has implemented a Mike Devlin, managing West’s leading independ - Stephensons Solicitors range of initiatives to ensure partner of the 90-strong ent Court of Protection LLP is celebrating after people can still gain access Family department, said: specialist, have made two reaching the shortlist for a to justice following the de - “Our Family team has new promotions. national award. cline of legal aid funding in - worked hard over the last cluding fixed fees and two years to adapt our offer - Specialist solicitors Rebecca Stephensons has been several expert teams who ing to ensure those who Brown and Jennifer Kerns shortlisted, along with three specialise in domestic abuse need family legal advice can have been promoted to As - other firms from across the and care cases as well as still access it. We are so sociate level. country, in the Family Law mediation and divorce. pleased to be considered Firm of the Year category at for this prestigious award Says Hugh Jones, Managing the annual Jordan’s Family The team, which is one of and are looking forward to Director, “These two new Law Awards. The event the largest in the country, the event.” promotions are justifiably recognises the important also works in partnership deserved and it will further work of those working in with other agencies/chari - The Jordan’s Family Law strengthen our existing family law across the coun - ties to tackle issues such as Awards will be held at The team. Whilst we are one of try and celebrates successes domestic abuse and has ex - Brewery in London on Octo - the largest and most experi - and outstanding achieve - panded with new offices in ber 8th 2014. For more in - enced teams in Court of Jennifer Kearns Rebecca Brown ments. Altrincham and Hammer - formation, visit Protection, it is vital for the smith, London in the last 12 www.familylawawards.com. growth of the firm that we Stephensons’ Family depart - months. both encourage and de - velop our own people.” Gorvins celebrates strong half year results and welcomes a dozen new appointments Leading Stockport law firm Gorvins Solicitors has performed strongly in the first half of the financial year (to 31st May 2014) and has bolstered its 100 strong team with 12 new appointments across a range of departments to meet the growing de - mand for its services.

The firm’s fee income for the period rose 12% to just under £3.3million, of which the strongest rise was in property related disciplines, cash flow targets, as we con - The firm’s Personal Injury reflecting the recovery in tinue to focus on financial department has welcomed the housing market and the management.” the arrival of Associate So - firm’s growing reputation in licitor, Paul Regan from Commercial Real Estate as a The successful six months Manchester, who previously Legal 500* Tier 1 firm. for the firm have resulted in worked for Tranter twelve new appointments. Freeclaim in Wythenshawe. Litigation, another Legal The Residential Property & Paul has more than 11 years’ 500 Tier 1 practice area, also Conveyancing department experience in the personal grew strongly, owing to in - has welcomed the largest injury field. creased confidence among number of new arrivals in - claimants that they shall cluding the team’s key hire, Further hires include Associ - convert judgements into Adrian Taylor, who has ate Solicitor Fatimah Khan, cash. joined as Head of Depart - five new conveyancing as - ment. Adrian has over 20 sistants, a new legal secre - The firm’s Private Client and years of experience, work - tary and two new business M&A teams also performed ing across a range of roles and marketing executives in especially well. which have included over - the marketing department. seas property lawyer, prop - Managing Partner Lorraine erty partner and Commenting on the recruit - Lockie said “Our perform - department head, as well as ment drive Lorraine said: ance in the first six months working in-house for vari - “The growth of the firm is of the year is a testament to ous companies including down to the professional - the success of our clients Hospitality Marketing Con - ism and proactive nature of and the hard work of the cepts Ltd. in California. our team and we wanted to team. We have started the ensure that as our client second half well and expect Sarah Edwards from Man - base grows we are still able the full year to improve on chester has joined as Senior to deliver the same high lev - our achievement of 7% Associate from Horwich els of service we’re known growth in fee income in Cohen Coghlan Solicitors for.” each of the last two years. It with more than six years ex - was also pleasing to see the perience in Residential firm surpass challenging Property.

The deadline for the October edition is 11th September Next month The Messenger will be celebrating its 20th birthday or 240th edition! BARRY FRIESLANDER MCIArb P: 08448 777 888 Certified Mediator M: 07973 394 803 Complex business & matrimonial disputes resolved E: [email protected] W: www.dispute-resolve.co.uk Barry holds Certified Elite Mediator status, compliant with the UK Ministry of Justice, EU & UK Civil Mediation Council Mediator Database and is accredited by the ADR Group. HRC Law strengthen employment department Clyde & Co expands Casualty and Healthcare practice HRC Law LLP strengthen with Partner hires in fraud and disease litigation their employment depart - Clyde & Co has hired Anto - ment and add a commer - nia Ford, formerly of DAC cial litigation offering Beachcroft and Judith with the appointment of Martin, formerly of Associate Sarah Arm - Keoghs, into their Casu - strong. alty & Healthcare practice. Sarah has a wealth of expe - Antonia specialises in all rience in all aspects of HR types of insurance fraud strategy and employment claims including road traffic law. Sarah also has exten - accident, employers' liability sive commercial dispute res - and public liability cases. olution expertise. She has particular expertise Sarah Armstrong Simon Whitehead regarding staged, fabri - Having trained at a leading cated and exaggerated em - London firm and practised ployers and public liability as a Solicitor for over 15 Managing Partner Simon in relation to restrictive cases and this specific expe - years, Sarah has held senior Whitehead commented covenant issues and busi - rience is invaluable in assist - positions in both the UK “Having Sarah on board will ness protection issues gen - ing with the development and Australia. allow us to continue with erally. Recruiting the right of management strategies the expansion of our em - person is key to ensure the for claims validation teams. Sarah said: “I am delighted ployment department. success and stability of any She has a strong reputation to have joined the team at organisation. Sarah is a per - for service delivery and is al - HRC Law. Exciting times lie “Sarah also brings to the fect fit for HRC Law and ready well-known to the in - ahead and I am looking for - table her commercial litiga - complements our existing Judith Martin & Antonia Ford surance, acting for a ward to helping the team tion expertise which will be team”. number of market leading PTSD claims and has suc - the range and number of expand and build upon its invaluable to our clients as insurance clients. cessfully defended a num - disease claims on the rise, we are regularly instructed very successful first year” ber of such claims brought this area of litigation that is Judith specialises in occupa - in the retail and gaming sec - a major focus for insurers." tional disease litigation and tor and led the Court of Ap - Brabners promotes eight has over 16 years of experi - peal case of Nicholls v James Dadge, Casualty & ence in the defendant dis - Ladbrokes (2013) ECWA Civ Healthcare Partner, Man - North West law firm Brab - erty law including patents, Steele (Litigation) have be - ease sector, having 1963. chester office, commented: ners has made up one trademarks, copyright, data - come Associates. managed a range of cases "In both London and Man - Partner, five Senior Asso - base rights, design rights including asbestos related Commenting on her ap - chester we already have a ciates and two Associates and domain names, as well Mark Brandwood, Brabners’ cases, stress at work, repeti - pointment, Antonia said: "I strong ability to address the in its annual round of pro - as in brand management Managing Partner, said: tive strain injury cases, car - am very pleased to join counter fraud needs of our motions. and strategy and registra - “These promotions demon - bon monoxide poisoning Clyde & Co's well-respected insurance clients. tion of trade marks. strate our continued com - and COSHH cases. She has Casualty & Healthcare team. With Antonia joining the Intellectual Property and mitment to support and also dealt with multi party Clyde & Co has a long her - group our fraud capability Commercial law expert In addition, the following invest in our people and ex - HAVS and deafness cases itage in insurance and a will become outstanding Colin Bell has been pro - lawyers have all been pro - pertise. I would like to con - and other more unusual leading reputation in this and bring a range of experi - moted to Partner. Colin moted to Senior Associate: gratulate each individual on cases such as nasal cancer area, my practice will sit ence and skill to our na - joined Brabners in 2007 Dewi Paddock and Helen their promotion, which is and chronic laryngitis. very well alongside their ex - tional Casualty practice that having spent five years at a Brown (Property), Paul recognition of their talent, isting capability." will be difficult to beat. In major London firm where Ryman (Employment), hard work and dedication to Judith has extensive experi - particular the team will offer he trained, qualifying in Richard Hough (Commercial clients, enabling us as a firm ence in abuse cases includ - Judith commented "I am innovative solutions to 2004. He has extensive ex - and Pharmacy) and Simon to offer the highest quality ing physical and emotional delighted to be joining clients in the highly special - perience in all aspects of Lewis (Corporate). of service at all times.” historic abuse as well as Clyde & Co, where I hope to ist areas of casualty fraud, contentious and non-con - claims involving the elderly. make a significant contribu - credit hire fraud and motor tentious intellectual prop - Jack Froggatt and Philip In addition she has consid - tion to their established Dis - sub-specialisms such as dis - erable experience and ex - ease Team. It is an exciting tribution and self-drive. " pertise in retail robbery and time in this area of law. With

Colin Bell and Mark Brandwood 8 Movers & Shakers Further growth for Citadel Law with Simpson Millar Travel Claims division PI costs specialist hire continues to grow Personal injury consulting ence in serious injury cases National law firm Simpson tour operating experience, further expand his team law firm, Citadel Law has including RTA, Industrial Millar is delighted to an - Claire was with both First and says “As a result of all appointed litigation and Disease, Employers Liability, nounce the continued ex - Choice and Thomson Holi - the consolidation going on costs specialist, Phil Sher - Public Liability, Occupiers Li - pansion of its travel claims days so she has a clear per - in the claimant legal mar - wood, as demand in - ability and Clinical Negli - team with the appoint - spective on the ketplace, Simpson Millar’s creases from law firms, gence involving complex ment of Claire Rabbetts. responsibilities and duties travel team has been a ben - accountants and banks to issues upon liability, causa - our travel industry has for its eficiary and this has en - access profit locked in law tion and quantum, Phil is Claire joins from Colemans customers.” abled us to continue to firm WIP. also a costs consultant, CTTS, and will bring the build our brand and signifi - working with both claimant number of fee earners on Nick adds that the practice’s cantly increase our market Phil will work closely with and defendant law firms, the team to 10 individuals expansion is coming at a share and profitability” Citadel’s established PI liti - and insurers. He is a mem - under the leadership of time when consolidation in gation and costs specialist, ber of the Civil Justice Coun - Partner Nick Harris. the market has helped Claire adds: “I’m very Emma Adams, to evaluate cil’s Costs Committee and Simpson Millar carve out a pleased to have joined how loss of success fees has reported to the Master Phil Sherwood “Claire’s experience will en - strong niche. “There are Simpson Millar which has a from paying parties is trans - of the Rolls with an evi - able her to fit perfectly into fewer and fewer nationwide justifiable reputation in the lating into fee income, by dence based review of financial performance, so it our growing team here at practices that can offer the travel claims market. I’m advising on WIP value and Guideline Hourly Rates. Phil is great to have someone of Simpson Millar,” says Nick. quality of service to cus - hoping to help make my PI caseload risks, as well as has also recently been ap - Phil’s calibre on board. Al - “Not only has she worked in tomers bringing claims own mark on the practice identifying issues to provide pointed a CILEX Council ready he has made a big im - private practice at her previ - against travel operators and and continue to develop the best profit and claimant Member. pact, working on a seven ous firm but, like myself and this has very much played the business with my new outcomes for Citadel Law’s figure banking facility for a a number of the other into our hands. colleagues.” law firm clients. Citadel Law managing di - fast growth PI firm and his members of the Simpson rector Lesley Graves, says: expertise further strength - Millar Travel team who have Nick is actively looking to Phil is a Chartered Legal Ex - “As well as banks and ac - ens our ability to manage ecutive and has, over a 26 countants instructing our increasing instructions.” year career, worked at a Citadel Law to help them number of firms across the better understand the true Citadel Law now has 12 UK, including P R Hanna, financial picture of their law lawyers operating from of - Andrew Isaacs, and Coles firms clients, we are also fices in Manchester and Miller, the latter two as head seeing more and more law London with plans to bring of department. firms approaching us to on more technical special - help them better under - ists. As well as significant experi - stand their WIP and improve Kings welcome Adam Aldred Kings Chambers is de - Band 1 for all regions in lighted to announce that Chambers UK. Adam Aldred, formerly of Addleshaw Goddard has Colin Griffin, Chief Clerk accepted an invitation to commented that " Adam join chambers. joining chambers is a tremendous coup for Kings Adam specialises in EU and and a great testament to competition law, including our reputation as one of the cartels, dominance, merg - country's leading sets. ers, market investigations, Adam joining allows us to Claire Rabbetts and Nick Harris litigation, trading agree - offer services from a leading ments and compliance. He practitioner in a new spe - all solicitors and companies is ranked as a leader in his cialist area for chambers. across the regions Kings field and has litigated as an We are delighted that Adam serves, and not just the se - advocate in a significant has chosen Kings." lect few who are clients of National recognition for Laura number of cases both in my old firm, Addleshaw Turner Parkinson Insol - court and before the Com - Commenting on his joining Goddard. Now, specialist vency Lawyer Laura Baker petition Appeal Tribunal chambers, Adam said “I am independent advice on has received national and the European Commis - excited to be joining Kings merger control, distribution recognition for her qualifi - sion prior to joining the Bar. Chambers and becoming strategies, dawn raids, in - cation as an Insolvency For many years, Adam has the first competition law vestigations, dominance, Practitioner at a gradua - been ranked by Legal 500 as specialist practising at the state aid and competition tion ceremony held by the 'the' leading indvidual in EU regional bar. I am particu - litigation is now available to Association of Business and competition law in larly looking forward to all locally, without having to Recovery Professionals in Yorkshire and is ranked in making myself available to go to London”. London.

Laura not only qualified as an Insolvency Practitioner but also won the Insolvency Lawyers’ Association Prize for achieving the highest marks of any lawyer in the country.

Commenting on her gradu - ation, Laura said: “Passing the JIEB exams and winning the Insolvency Lawyers’ As - sociation Prize is my proud - est professional achievement. My increased technical knowledge has al - ready been put into practice and I can now advise my clients having a better un - Laura receives her certificate from Graham Horne of the derstanding of the issues Insolvency Service. that Insolvency Practition - ers face”. Commercial Property specialists required through the North West, from Secretaries, to Paralegal, to ILEX to Solicitors to Partners, if you have worked within Commercial Property please get in touch. Firms are paying ABOVE market average for such professionals. To enquire about this position or many of the other vacancies we have on offer, or you would like some honest, straight forward career advice please call 01524 542655 or 07970252772 or email [email protected] Eventus Legal successfully recruit legal professionals for Private Practice across the North West on both a contract and permanent basis, from Secretaries to Senior Partner level. We are trusted as “the first point of contact” for many firms to resolve their recruitment needs whether contingent or retained. www.eventuslegal.co.uk Brabners advises Bolton Wanderers on Macron Catherine retires after 34 years in practice naming rights and kit deal for new season The Sports law team at increasingly prevalent area Brabners has advised of naming rights and mat - Bolton Wanderers on its ters relating to ground shar - agreement with Macron ing and event hosting. to become the Club's offi - cial kit supplier and nam - David Bentham, a Partner in ing rights partner from the Sports law team at Brab - the 2014-15 season. ners acted for Bolton Wan - derers in the negotiations Italian sportswear manufac - along with solicitor Oliver turer Macron will provide Sadler. match kits, training wear and leisurewear for the Club David Bentham com - from the beginning of the mented: “We were de - upcoming 2014-15 season, lighted to assist Bolton in with the new Bolton Wan - such an important agree - derers kits having been un - ment, with Macron provid - David Bentham veiled this summer. In ing the Club’s kit and with Club relating to two key addition, the deal with the Club’s stadium being re - areas of our business, being Macron includes the nam - named. The naming rights kit supply and naming ing rights for Bolton's sta - element in particular raised rights. We were delighted to dium, which has been various considerations and benefit from Brabners’ assis - The partners of WTB Solicitors were sorry to see their friend and senior solicitor Catherine renamed as 'Macron Sta - it was good to use our ex - tance and experience Vickerman retire after 34 years in practice. After completing her articles with a Manches - dium'. pertise and experience in throughout the process, ter firm Catherine specialised in family law. She later qualified as a family mediator and in this area to assist Bolton on which helped us negotiate this role provided sensitive and professional assistance to families in dispute. In recent The deal adds to Brabners’ this deal.” and finalise the arrange - years WTB valued her contribution to the firm as a mentor and wise counsel to col - wealth of experience of ad - ments as effectively and ef - leagues. She will be missed by her clients and the firm but is looking forward to spending vising on kit sponsorship Bolton Wanderers Chairman ficiently as possible, and we more time with her family and golden retriever, Molly. and supply arrangements, Phil Gartside commented: look forward to developing as well as venue related “This is clearly an exciting our partnership with agreements, including the and significant deal for the Macron.” Mills & Reeve advises Coronation Street on latest divorce drama

Mills & Reeve family lawyer Robin Charrot has advised Coronation Street on the latest divorce to rock the cobbles.

Producers at Coronation Street called on Robin to help with the storyline of Nick and Leanne Tilsley’s di - vorce, including the media - tion scenes which were aired on ITV earlier this week (July 28).

Robin said: “We are used to helping very high profile Robin Charrot couples from the worlds of entertainment and business “Sadly for Nick and Leanne their mediation doesn’t work. to resolve their disputes, so However, in real life, with an experienced and skilled medi - we were delighted to advise ator, it does work, and produces better outcomes for the on the ‘Nick and Leanne’ sto - family. It also helps to minimise the harm which is caused to ryline. children from their parents’ separation.”

Call: 01392 423607 10 PII The SRA Consultation on PII Reforms - The Right Solution?

The SRA Consultation relating to changes to the min - cision will become clearer as Professional Indemnity un - veyancing transactions with another firm. imum professional indemnity cover has brought derwriters begin to release their quotes. about much discussion amongst the profession. The claims made nature of the PII policy may also mean More accurately, the recent announcement of the Will insurers be prepared to offer the lower limits? Run- that firms reducing their cover have to contact their proposed reforms has created more debate than the off premiums are large sums to pay to effectively close clients to advise them of the reduction. Work performed actual consultation, to which around 1% of the pro - a business if a successor practice isn't available, and the with a PII limit of £2,000,000 would no longer have that fession responded. option of being succeeded seems to be the exception level of protection and it may have been a condition of rather than the rule now. Underwriters have the concern contract that such limits are continued, meaning yet The objective of the SRA at the outset of the consultation of being left with 6 years to cover a firm that may have more administration was to 'reduce the regulatory burden, provide targeted wound up in less than positive circumstances. regulation and increase competition'. Of the five propos - als put forward by the SRA, only a reduction in the Min - The run-off issue correlates directly to buying reduced The consultation has meant that many firms have de - imum Mandatory level of cover from the current levels of cover. What if a firm has a claim for £1,000,000 ferred deciding on their Professional Indemnity Insur - £2,000,000 to £500,000 was agreed by the SRA board. but only has the mandatory £500,000 limit? Being left ance placement for this year. Although there is new with a £500,000 bill to make up the shortfall could well capacity in the market, we would suggest you contact Some firms may see the potential to reduce the Indem - be the end for such a firm. Insurers would then have to your specialist Professional Indemnity broker to discuss nity cover they buy by 75% as an opportunity to save provide 6 years’ run-off cover with little or no chance of the possible impact of the consultation on your firm money on their PII premium. Current opinion in the press receiving the premium. This will be on any underwriter’s sooner rather than later. suggests most insurers will offer reductions in the region mind when reviewing a risk, which will mean closer of 5% for the lower limit. Whilst it is acknowledged that scrutiny on the financial stability of a firm, the Limits of Tony Brown certain firms with very low risk and similarly low poten - Indemnity and Excesses to be offered. Partner - JLT Specialty Limited tial claim payouts may benefit by reducing cover, it should follow that such firms would already have a rela - Lender panels will need to feel a certain level of comfort tively low Professional Indemnity premium. in the limits of cover firms carry. A reduction in the level of cover taken by some firms and not others may lead to The potential downsides of reducing the firm’s PII cover fewer opportunities for these firms, and likely more re - seem to outweigh the benefits of a relatively small pre - quests for levels of cover confirmation not only from mium saving in a number of ways. The impact of this de - lenders but also between solicitors involved in con - SAS Daniels LLP reports new insolvency Stephensons secure place on instructions up by 43% procurement panel The Insolvency Service re - seem counter-intuitive it cently released the insol - does make sense as the di - National law firm benefit from their purchas - vency statistics for the rectors and shareholders of Stephensons Solicitors ing power. period April to June 2014. companies that are strug - LLP has been appointed gling, often referred to as to the Procurement for David Baybut, partner at It is fair to say that the re - zombie companies, decide Housing (PfH) framework Stephensons and the firm’s sults are mixed. to cut their losses and pur - for the supply of legal PfH relationship manager, sue other ventures. At the services in England and said: “Stephensons has been The company liquidation same time as markets im - Wales. delivering legal services to rate (i.e. the percentage of prove creditors may lose pa - housing associations and active companies put into tience and calculate that PfH is a national procure - local authorities for more liquidation) fell to 0.56%, they will get a better return ment consortium for the so - than 30 years and we have which is the lowest level via an insolvency as asset cial housing sector and it is developed an in-depth un - since records began in 1984. values increase. supported by the National derstanding of the issues Paul Formby Housing Federation, the they face. The reduction is a result of The corporate insolvency Chartered Institute of Hous - ing and HouseMark. “We are extremely pleased David Baybut continued decline in the figures, therefore, suggest and corporate insolvency to have been appointed to number of creditors' volun - that there is some way to go cases, as much as 43% in - Stephensons was successful this panel for the first time framework agreement to tary liquidations (CVLs) (i.e. before the economy can be crease in the last four in four areas covering Prop - and we are looking forward procure a full range of legal companies taking a proac - considered to have recov - months. tive approach and entering ered completely." erty, Development, Employ - to working with PfH’s mem - services. ment and Housing bers to resolve their legal is - liquidation on the basis that We think this is down to Management and will join sues.” “By working with our se - they cannot continue to Conversely, there has been creditors now putting more five other law firms from lected panel, our members trade). CVLs have fallen for a significant rise in personal pressure on debtors and across the country on the Martin McGuire, interim cat - will benefit from greater ef - the last four quarters. insolvency numbers, up pursuing those in debt as panel. Importantly, the egory manager at Procure - ficiencies, cost savings and over 5% on the same time the economy and the framework agreement will ment for Housing, said: “The access to legal suppliers Winding up orders remain last year which has been prospect of recovery im - enable PfH’s 850 members primary objective of this without the need to go relatively stable with 974 driven by an increase in proves. compulsory liquidations for IVAs, Individual Voluntary to access legal services from contract is to provide PfH through a tendering approved suppliers and members with a flexible process themselves.” the quarter. Arrangements, up 20% in "Like so much economic the same period to a record news at present, there is Paul Formby, Insolvency & high since IVAs were intro - enough here to suggest to Corporate Recovery Associ - duced further to the Insol - the optimistic that this is ate at SAS Daniels LLP in vency Act 1986. further evidence of a recov - Promotions at Just Costs’ Manchester Stockport, said: "In previous ery which is well underway, recessions insolvency num - Paul concludes: "At SAS whilst the pessimistic will Head Office bers have risen as the reces - Daniels, we have seen a sig - feel that there is little room Just Costs Solicitors has cruitment drive which has sion ends. Whilst this may nificant increase in personal for complacency." promoted two fee earners seen the firm create 30 new and two non fee earners jobs. from its Manchester head office to Associate level. The firm, which was granted Manchester’s Citadel Law shortlisted an ABS licence last year, has Promoted to Associate in also appointed Kevin for prestigious national award Manchester are fee earners Doolan, formerly Head of Phil Bradbury and Simon Client Relations at Ever - Manchester’s Citadel Law Richmond Chambers, and Gayfer, Northern Region sheds, as a consultant and has been nominated for Virtuoso Legal. Business Development non-executive director. the Award in Innovation Manager, Iain Cherry and Fi - at this year’s prestigious Citadel Law managing di - nance Team Leader, Pauline Announcing the promo - Halsbury Legal Awards. rector Lesley Graves says: Lyndon. tions at the firm’s AGM, “We’re delighted to have Managing Director Paul The awards aim to celebrate been shortlisted and feel The promotions were an - Shenton said: "These pro - Iain Cherry the values the legal com - honoured to be recognised nounced at Just Costs’ AGM motions reflect our planned munity embodies and against some of the sector’s with four other fee earners programme of targeted which are prized by the pro - most respected names in - from the firm’s London and growth across the business. fession and wider commu - cluding two Top 20 law Chesterfield offices also tak - As well as recruiting exter - nity. The Award in firms. Being recognised by ing on new roles. nally, we are committed to Innovation specifically aims Halsbury’s independent recognising and rewarding to reward firms who, judges shows that Citadel The promotions comple - home grown talent.” through innovation and Law’s innovative work in the ment Just Costs’ recent re - radical change, introduced legal sector is making a dif - new ways of providing legal ference. Lesley Graves services and / or new work - ing practices, which are in - “The legal sector, in particu - Coming next month..... fluencing the future of law lar personal injury, has faced Citadel Law will find out if and practice. massive challenges in the they’ve won the award on last 12 months and the ex - 24th September at a cere - The shortlisting places panding team at Citadel mony in London. More in - NQ retention in Manchester Citadel Law, a personal in - Law have worked hard to formation about the jury consulting law firm set help our clients adapt en - Halsbury Awards can be up in 2010, against some abling them to become bet - found at: http://www.hals - We would like to hear from firms and NQs big names in the legal sec - ter run law firms and burylegalawards.co.uk/ tor, such as: DAC Beachcroft, ensuring improved out - Halebury, Hogan Lovells, comes for injured clients.” Please contact Julia Baskerville on 01253 829431 The deadline for October is 11th Sep [email protected] 12 Feature Talking Heads This month we asked practitioners and experts “How is the profession adapting to the E-disclosure reforms?”

In many instances e-dis - to discuss the various op - ties can also be ordered to The increasing willingness tween ‘standard’ e-disclo - closure platforms are only tions presented by each provide information about of the court to examine sure and the more forensic used to manage docu - individual case, and to de - document retention poli - cost budgets and test the examination of meta-data ments in practical terms termine the most effective cies. estimates provided by the which might ordinarily be (i.e. for the viewing and or - and cost-efficient method - parties challenges practi - considered to be e-disclo - ganising of documents). ology. The lack of a document re - tioners to understand sure. It probably remains This doesn’t reduce the tention policy can assist more about the technical - the exception rather than amount of work involved CY4OR can take strategic an experienced opposing ities of capturing, storing the rule and many clients in determining the rele - costs budgeting a step fur - litigator. Costs must re - and, most importantly, are reluctant to spend sig - nificant money on it yet. vancy of documents ther by attending the case main proportionate searching the data. which is still done manu - management conference throughout but in many The relatively slow start ally at great expense. (CMC), providing expertise cases, specialist IT support Those who understand does now seem to be trail - Greater reliance on tech - and independent advice will be brought in to push the process of searching ing off though. Matthew Taylor nologies such as predic - to help litigators gain a an opponent into provid - data and the various tech - We are starting to see signs Partner tive coding would help to focus and agree upon a ing detailed electronic dis - niques available maximise that parties are pushing for Eversheds reduce the amount of practical eDisclosure closure. This increases their chances of persuad - greater compliance. human input needed and budget. This allows not costs but is inevitable and ing a judge that the exer - Equally, as our working life The continual integration therefore help reduce only the court but all in - in my experience the court cise is proportionate, and continues to shift towards of new technologies into costs. However, this will volved parties to appreci - understand that these thus the costs associated an electronic base, some el - our work and social lives take time – it needs a ate the volume, timeframe costs are necessary and recoverable. ement of e-disclosure is al - not only blurs the lines be - greater understanding on and complexity of the should be recoverable most certain to be needed in every case. tween work and home, it the part of the profession, case, thus, reducing costs from the losing party but This translates into the also means that the quan - but also better demon - where possible and im - is alive to whether parties practitioner maximising stration that it works so proving profitability. have complied with the their client’s prospects of Firms which do not have tity of electronically stored their procedures in place data increases exponen - that lawyers are prepared specific e-disclosure re - meeting their disclosure to put their trust in it. quirements set out in PD obligations first time and are going to find it increas - tially. Who knows when ingly hard to conduct litiga - we will be seeing disclo - 31B. uncovering helpful evi - dence from the oppo - tion in the coming months sure of someone’s Google and years.” Glass records? nent’s disclosure at proportionate cost, whilst This creates a major chal - minimising challenges by lenge when it comes to clients about the disclo - disclosure – balancing the sure exercise undertaken. desire to have all the rele - vant documents before the court so that it can reach the right decision with the need to control the costs of a large e-dis - David Joseph closure exercise. The e- Partner disclosure reforms try hard Lawrie Hall, gunnercooke to address this challenge, CY4OR eDisclosure Melanie McGuirk however there is still a de - Consultant The answer is very mixed. Partner - IP & Media gree of ignorance within Experienced and astute Pannone Corporate LLP the profession as to how One of the most critical commercial litigators are e-disclosure can effec - parts of the eDisclosure very aware of the extent of In most commercial cases, tively utilised. process is the preservation e-disclosure and its use in parties are forced to get to Niall Innes of data. Unfortunately, certain cases to gain a tac - grips with e-disclosure at a clients will sometimes try Insurance Disputes Team The key to the effective tical advantage for their very early stage due to the Mills & Reeve use of e-disclosure is to to save money by at - client. I find that there is requirement to prepare a address the issue as early tempting to take parts of still a real need to educate costs budget. The budget Most firms will have their as possible. However, this the process into their own clients on document re - must include an estimated systems up and running. means front loading costs hands. This can not only tention policies. cost figure for the e-disclo - They will have question - and, understandably, this jeopardise the validity of sure exercise. Sensible naires for clients, they will is often not high on a the data but cause a num - The lack/inadequacy of practitioners will support have preferred experts lined client’s list of priorities. ber of problems when one can be a real hurdle to that estimate by a report up and they will have they are passed to the ex - overcome when a client from an e-disclosure trained their staff as to the There does therefore need perts for processing, re - becomes engaged in com - provider who has already obligations which arise. to be a cultural shift in view and analysis. plex litigation. reviewed the data (if the We have spent quite a lot of mindset as to when to amount of data warrants time getting everything in start dealing with disclo - Now that the Jackson Re - The Electronic Documents this). This is predicated on place. sure. forms have been imple - Questionnaire specifically an assessment of which of There also needs to be a mented a sensible budget asks the question "Do you However, there still seems the menu of disclosure or - to be a feeling amongst greater understanding must be agreed upon by have a document reten - ders is most appropriate many litigators, and many and exploitation of the in - both parties, allowing tion policy?" One now and the level of costs creasingly sophisticated e- clients and their lawyers to clients, that the issue can often sees enquiries from which would be appropri - still generally be side - disclosure platforms in the forecast the depth of the opponents regarding the ate to the exercise in the required investigation. stepped. We don’t yet see e- market. However, many content of document re - context of the value of the disclosure actually taking This information allows parties are failing to make tention policies and, in the claim. place in every case and use of these technologies the eDisclosure service context of a specific dis - there is still a division be - effectively. provider, such as CY4OR, closure application, par - Local News 13 Bringing back old values into the business of law Hugh Jones Solicitors have recently been granted ABS status. Julia Baskerville talks to Hugh Jones about his alternative approach to creating a sustainable law firm... Launched in March 2013, Hugh Jones Solicitors have ex - Hugh is passionate about providing a quality service to his panded steadily in a short space of time and have re - clients and in his opinion it is the single most important fac - cently recruited their 30th member of staff. Hugh Jones tor in building his business. He adds “We are not building a also won Partner of the Year Award at the MLA awards brand; we are offering a bespoke, professional service. We earlier in the year, along with the practice being nomi - want to be able to help our clients live their lives in the very nated for “Boutique Practice of the Year” by the national best way they can. Many of our clients are the most vulner - Lawyer magazine. able in society. Whether they are incapacitated adults through accidents, have dementia or learning difficulties. The firm has premises in the iconic Threlfalls Brewery in Sal - We will provide a service that is dedicated to their needs and ford and are specialists in Court of Protection. Before launch - to those who care for them.” ing on his own, Hugh spent 30 years at Pannone latterly building a unique department. The new firm now has 10 The firm is the only independent Court of Protection spe - qualified lawyers, including director Rachel Dobson who is cialists in the North of England and possesses one of the responsible for HR, Compliance and Regulation. In addition, most experienced and dedicated teams of any firm in the highly experienced accountant Jon Miller is Finance Direc - country. Hugh himself has over 30 years’ experience as a so - tor. licitor and is regarded as one of the country’s leading spe - cialists in Court of Protection. He says “I believe the niche law Hugh has decided to take a very different approach to be - firm is the future. We are building a strong business which coming an ABS than other firms. Hugh already includes all values and rewards its staff whilst offering clients a quality staff in weekly meetings at which financial progress is dis - service at a reasonable price. Some of my fellow profession - cussed. However, he wants to go further by creating ways to als considered me to be naïve when I decided to set up my distribute shares to all employees irrespective of status. This own business but I wanted to build a business which has is a very radical business model, which Hugh feels works longevity and is genuinely working in the interests of the both ways – for both the client and the team. Hugh says “I client. I would like to think that we are bringing some old want all employees to be involved in the decision making of values back into the business of law. It’s all about respect the business, along with being able to share in its success. and service.” This philosophy creates a team culture rather than an indi - vidual mentality.” Not only does this create a pleasant work - ing environment but it provides consistency in developing further a one-to-one relationship with our clients. It is vital that we are personal and approachable to them. 14 Feature Ontime - building an industry-wide reputation The Ontime Group was es - personal injury and clinical spinal nurse in Bedford who are always in expert hands. legals, who are trained to tablished in 2007 as On - negligence firms over the could visit a client and pro - The Agents in our Investiga - deal with all areas of costs time Reports, set up by past few years, those af - duce a quantum report tions team have been law and practice. Director of prominent personal injury fected need to know that within 7 days, and a behav - highly trained to handle a Costs, Sharon Denby, is an solicitors James Maxey they can rely on service ioural optometrist with a wide range of tracing en - experienced solicitor who and Robin Patey, who providers and medical specialty in paediatric brain quiries that are regularly re - has enjoyed a successful ca - found that the established agencies in particular. And injuries. Thanks to the deter - quired for personal injury reer in personal injury litiga - medical agencies were Ontime have proven time mination and dedication of cases. Using a variety of tion. Following the falling short of their ex - and time again that they are Laura and her team, they databases, our lead agent implementation of the Jack - pectations. Motivated by more than up to the job. leave no stone unturned in Jake Hacking is able to lo - son Reforms in April 2013, the poor service and out - Each department is con - their search for the most ex - cate or re-locate any clients, Sharon recognised the even comes they were receiv - stantly evolving and im - otic and sought after ex - witnesses and defendants greater need to provide a ing, they made it their proving as expectations are perts. needed to progress a case, dedicated and specialist goal to provide the kind of consistently exceeded and even using minimal details service in this particular service they wished they difficulties are overcome. Ontime’s pagination team such as a mobile phone area of law. Sharon has had received from the includes numerous quali - number or a nickname. Our trained her team to under - competition. Ontime Reports has built an fied nurses, each specialis - Investigations team also stand costs from a practi - industry-wide reputation ing in a different field, and offer a translation and inter - tioner’s point of view, service or combination of Ever since, Ontime Group for the exceptional service each with over 20 years’ ex - preter service, which has focusing on the delivery of services you choose, you has continued to grow and and outstanding respon - perience in the nursing pro - gone from strength to an efficient and professional will always talk to the same expand to provide a variety siveness they provide, re - fession. Responsible for strength ever since its in - service that can always pro - educated and professional of legal support services in - gardless of how simple or preparing all client medical ception. Jake and his team duce results. The Ontime individual who can provide cluding expert medical re - complicated the case may records for evaluation and are exceptionally skilled at Costs team can deal with a an outstanding service ports, medical records be. All medical reports are litigation, the nurse’s knowl - locating interpreters for wide range of services in - every time. pagination, tracing and in - handled by a dedicated edge, professional training face-to-face or over the cluding costs negotiations vestigations and a specialist team whose sole purpose is and understanding of med - phone meetings and trans - and budgeting, preparation At Ontime Group, we pride costs recovery service to locate medical experts ical practice proves to be in - lators who are highly quali - of costs statements and trial ourselves on getting to headed up by leading costs and manage the reports valuable when it comes to fied and experienced when statements, drafting points know you as a firm and as solicitor Sharon Denby. On - they produce. The team is the comprehensive pagina - dealing with Court, Medical of dispute, bill drafting and an individual, and we con - time is the only medical led by Laura Peters, and to - tion service offered by On - and Witness documents. consultancy. The team’s liti - stantly strive to understand agency built by solicitors, gether they handle the time, which includes The team have never had a gation background gives the specific requirements for solicitors, and has there - needs of more than 20 managing disclosure, sort - translator they couldn’t find, them a thorough under - that you and your client fore been created to under - client firms, setting them - ing and collating, pagina - and are especially skilful at standing of costs and, more need. stand and consistently selves apart by their ability tion and indexing, bespoke locating uncommon lan - importantly, budgeting that exceed the expectations of to deliver on even the most chronologies and memo - guages such as Gujurati, other competitors simply So when you need a per - personal injury and clinical challenging and complex randa of clinical observa - Urdu, Lithuanian and Mal - cannot match. sonal and professional serv - negligence solicitors. instructions. Ontime’s chal - tions. From initial tese. ice, turn to Ontime Group. lenges in recent weeks have instruction to completion, Whether it’s reports, costs, With the surplus of chal - included locating a GP with you can enjoy complete Ontime Costs is home to a pagination or investiga - James Molloy lenges that have bom - experience in a very special - peace of mind knowing that team of costs specialists, in - tions, Ontime’s promise re - The Ontime Group barded the claimant ist form of skin cancer, a your client’s medical records cluding solicitors and para - mains the same: whichever

16 Feature Fanfare for the Commonwealth Man Richard Yates, who is a solicitor in Farleys’ Commercial Litigation and Sports Law department, competed in the final of the 400m hurdles in the Commonwealth Games last month. Richard, 28 has been involved in competetive athletics for many years, he talks to the Messenger about his experiences...

How much training do you do?

I train 6 days a week with one rest day. This will generally consist of two gym sessions, two track sessions, one hill run - ning session and one technical session. I will generally train in the evenings and at weekends. The evening sessions allow me to work during the day and then concentrate on my training in the evening. I am aware of the fact that most of my competitors do not even work part time which may place me at a disadvantage but I have taken the decision to balance the two as there is not much money in athletics and athletes need to have something in place for when they stop competing. I feel that the balance is ok as long as I get enough sleep and recover well after my heavy training ses - sions with the correct nutrition and rest.

How does your training and competitions impact on your working life as a sports lawyer?

My firm, Farleys Solicitors, are very flexible with me when I need time off for races abroad. I realise that I am very lucky in this respect as I do not think some of the other law firms would be so willing to allow me to do this. I work under Daniel Draper, the Partner who heads up our Sports Law and Commercial Disputes Department and he has been great in allowing me the flexibility to compete at such a high How did you become involved in running? level. He also feels it could be advantageous in obtaining ad - ditional publicity for the firm. I first became involved in running around the age of 4 when my parents took me down to the local running club. I also Did you enjoy the Games in Glasgow? played football and was member of a swimming club from a very young age. I always preferred playing sport and being Glasgow was a very friendly and enjoyable games. It was active to spending my time sitting at home on computer very close to a home games and the crowd was fantastic. It games. was an excellent stadium to race in and the competition was very strong compared to previous Commonwealths. I had said to myself before the games that I would see making the What competitions you have taken part in? final as a real success and I ultimately qualified out of my heat to make the final. I finished 7th place which was pretty I started taking my athletics seriously around the age of 21 respectable for such a strong event. and became British Champion over 400 hurdles in 2008 and controversially was not selected for the Beijing Olympics Glasgow was different to Delhi in that it was a lot cooler and that year. I competed in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, closer to home in that we could easily leave the athletes vil - India in 2010 and finished 5th in the 400 hurdles and won a lage and head into town. Delhi posed more of a terrorist bronze medal in the 4x400 relay. I also competed in the Eu - threat so we had to be careful as to what we could and ropean Championships in 2012 and regularly race on the could not do. I am now aged 28. A lot of the top 400 hurdlers prestigious Diamond League circuit. My athletics career has are still running good times well into their 30s so provided seen me travel the world and in recent years I have com - you are able to stay injury free there is the potential for me peted in Qatar, Iceland, Australia, Brazil, India and Czech Re - to continue up to the next Commonwealth Games which public. will be held in Gold Coast 2018. AlphaBiolabs mark 10 years of excellence in DNA Testing

This month, Warrington based AlphaBiolabs, celebrate 10 years of providing As well as providing DNA, drug and alcohol testing for the legal sector, AlphaBiolabs DNA, drug and alcohol testing across the UK. has been providing DNA tests for the Jeremy Kyle show for the past seven years. Since the launch of the daytime talk show in 2007 there has been a massive increase in de - The business, which was originally established at the University of Liverpool MerseyBio mand for DNA paternity tests and AlphaBiolabs can provide a whole range of genetic Incubator has expanded to become one of Europe’s leading DNA, drug and alcohol tests which can identify fathers, grandparents, and even aunts and uncles, with results testing laboratories and the longest established drug testing company in the UK. available within 24 hours.

AlphaBiolabs was the first laboratory to receive the prestigious UKAS ISO17025 accred - David Thomas concludes “I am delighted that we are celebrating 10 years as a business itation for the 24 loci Promega Fusion Powerplex DNA testing process. ISO17025 is in what has been, at times, a difficult economic climate. Over the past decade we have the internationally recognised standard for Testing and Calibration Laboratories and il - had to adapt and change in accordance with the needs and demands of our clients, lustrates that both the management systems and technical competency of a labora - whether they are lawyers, the courts or the general public. One of the key factors in tory have been assessed and shown to be compliant and that all the testing processes our success has been our staff who are committed to providing all of our clients with a are extremely accurate. truly first class service, that is both accurate and cost effective. “

Managing Director David Thomas comments “There are two crucial factors in the suc - cess and longevity of AlphaBiolabs, firstly it has been our commitment to providing an accurate and accredited service and, secondly, the hard work of our team. We employ staff from the surrounding areas as well as sustaining a nationwide network of nurses and sample collectors. We are accredited with Investors in People and provide ongoing support and training to our staff which allows them to flourish and develop their ca - reers within the business.” Law News 17 No Brainer - passing on the risks and costs of dealing with fraud alleged personal injury claims No matter what level of the into contested fraud matters As a result of the likelihood of market your Law Firm oper - that seem to have no the rare recovery of standard Monday evening in respect of ates within, or is striving to prospects; we regularly take costs in an RTA matter, many a litigated matter, with a trial operate within, the issues work at both ends of the firms attempt to dabble in date scheduled for the Thurs - faced are similar, do we scale, from a handful of files fraud work, however, giving a day of that same week; for have the requisite knowl - from a local firm, to hundreds claim the best possible many firms, this would likely edge to deal with a matter, of files from large depart - chances of success, necessi - be seen as a massive problem can we employ the time to ments in well-known national tates specialist working to be avoided at all costs. progress the issues, and can firms. knowledge, and the correct Fraud had been alleged by an the firm withstand the par - working partners -which are insurer, and the claim had ticular risks involved? We take over conduct of mat - thin on the ground to say the been struck out first time Alan Nesbit least. around, the Claimant, then ters in situations where other on to a specialist such as NLG Having operated in the con - pushed for the claim to be re - it must be said that it is only Solicitors believe that the are felt by both sides. tested fraud road traffic acci - matter is untouchable; we The number of contested RTA instated, and so the matter the fact that NLG knew what dent arena for some time, and fraud trials that NLG has dealt progressed with a trial date had to be done, and had the take pride in having the abil - The immediate impact is that following on from the ity to deal in the most difficult with, and the amount of fraud having been scheduled. methods and working part - 'Claimant Personal Injury work being progressed on a the fee-earner in your firm ners in place to act accord - of circumstances. who is either pretending that Team of the Year' at the daily basis, means that we Unfortunately, the acting So - ingly, that gave the claim a the file does not exist, or who Eclipse Personal Injury have amassed skills that can licitors decided at the last chance to be successful; make The Claimant personal injury is spending too much time Awards 2012, Nesbit Law be applied to provide positive minute that the risks involved no mistake, contested fraud industry is constantly on the procrastinating, trying to see Group are well versed in deal - outcomes, in an area in which were too great, and came off work is a headache, albeit one back foot, whether as a result all the angles, is freed to ing in this highly complex the skill-set for both Claimant the record. NLG were sought that NLG are happy to deal of negative media coverage, progress claims within their area. and Defendant legal teams is as specialists, and the with. the post-Mitchell narrowing comfort zone, reducing becoming more specialised Claimant was instructed to at - of the tightrope with regards wasted time. NLG routinely deal with work to progressing litigation, or day-by-day. tend one of our regional of - Alan Nesbit passed to us by Solicitors who fices, where their evidence Nesbit & Co the ever diminishing costs re - The long-term benefit is that have decided to stop engag - In a recent example, initial de - was tested with the result covered for a successful claim. if the claim does prove suc - ing time, money and effort tails were passed to us on a being that the Claimant came Alan set up Nesbit & Co So - cessful, then NLG and the pre - up to proof. licitors in Bury in 2003. An vious firm will receive costs APIL-accredited lawyer at that would otherwise have Rapid preparations for trial Senior Litigator level, he No need to instruct unregulated costs firms disappeared via a drop-hands were undertaken, including has worked on both the settlement or application to getting Counsel onboard (not claimant and defendant in - come off record. anymore says Just Costs on a CFA) and success at trial surance side with various followed thanks to a lot of practices and now spends Just Costs Solicitors has message to every regulated Whilst the above example hard and complex work un - his time managing and driv - welcomed Lord Dyson’s de - legal professional who spe - does highlight an incredible dertaken within the shortest ing forward Nesbit Law cision to adopt two impor - cialise in the law relating to feat, with a 2 day turn-around of timescales. Group LLP, which also has tant recommendations legal costs,” said Paul Shen - before a contested fraud trial offices in London, Birming - within the suggested re - ton, Managing Director at ending in a positive outcome, ham and Liverpool. forms to guideline hourly Just Costs Solicitors. “It also The benefits of passing work rates in civil litigation for endorses our commitment to costs lawyers, saying civil encourage all our fee earning litigators will no longer staff to pursue professional need to instruct junior fee qualifications.” earners at unregulated costs firms. Added Nick McDonnell, Northern Regional Manager The Master of the Rolls has ac - and Costs Lawyer at Just cepted some of the recom - Costs Solicitors: mendations of the Civil Justice Council (CJC) Costs “As well as costs lawyers, this Committee which provide is a positive development for that all Cost Lawyers “suitably civil litigators who have his - qualified and subject to regu - torically wanted to instruct Paul Shenton lation” can be considered as experienced, qualified costs Grades B or C, depending on specialists but worried that junior fee earners in unregu - the complexity of the work. they would not recover all of lated firms - in the knowledge their fees from an opponent. that they are much more “By recognising the value of Now they can instruct experi - likely to recover the rates and the Costs Lawyer status, Lord enced professionals - rather fees that justify that level of Dyson has sent a very positive than being forced to instruct expertise.” Davis Blank Furniss sees 55% rise in demand for Pre-nups but warns of risks to clients

Davis Blank Furniss - the upheld provided they are fair. Blank Furniss’s Family team, Manchester & Glossop Unsurprisingly, this has been commented: “Historically, based law firm - has re - another contributing factor in pre-nups were considered ported a 55% rise in clients the upturn in demand for ‘unromantic’ and a tool avail - enquiring about prenuptial them. able only to celebrities and agreements over the past the super-rich. However, they 12 months, but is warning It claims that clients need to are now increasingly being potential users not to be be wary as a pre-nup could be used by a broader range of complacent and to under - a way for the financially dom - couples including those earn - stand their potential pit - inant party to limit any dam - ing an average income and falls. age they would otherwise more so for spouses of retire - suffer on divorce. The team ment age on their second, or Although not legally binding also believes that it’s very im - third, marriage who wish to in accordance with present portant for family lawyers to ring fence assets for their chil - legislation, the firm’s Family ensure correct procedures are dren’s inheritances. team says this isn’t putting followed such as giving de - clients off despite lawyers not tailed written guidance; and Anita added: Our prediction is being able to guarantee that carefully advising on the im - that demand and interest in the terms of a pre-nup will be plications marriage has on fi - them will only get stronger mirrored in court orders. A re - nances and assets with, or but the onus is on us, the cent decision in the case of without, a pre-nup being in lawyers, to give accurate ad - Radmacher v Granatino place. vice to ensure clients enter [2010] has, however, opened into them with their eyes the door to pre-nups being Anita Shepherd, head of Davis open.” 18 Charity & CSR Chafes Solicitors donate £8,869 dormant Charity says thank you for Marathon funds to charity contribution Chafes Solicitors has do - every possible way of ensur - counts,” said Caroline. nated £8,869.29 of dor - ing the money was given to Mary McLaughlin of The mant funds to The Christie. the rightful owners but our Christie charity, said: “We are Dormant funds are un - leads were exhausted. With grateful that Faye and Caro - claimed client monies left the approval of the SRA we line pursued the option of in the firm’s possession. are delighted to give this donating these dormant money to The Christie. The funds to The Christie. We rely Conveyancing Executive money will go towards help - solely on the generous do - Faye Allen has been working ing those with bowel cancer nations of our supporters tirelessly to find clients to re - as it has affected the lives of and funds we receive di - turn the money. This in - colleagues in recent years.” rectly impact our patients by cluded searching the developing our world-class internet and contacting the Caroline believes that cancer treatment, research Department of Work and Chafes’ situation is far from and education. The decision Pensions. After all avenues unique and wants to encour - by Chafes Solicitors has were exhausted, Chafes age other practices to follow shown what potential there made an application to the suit. “Hundreds of solicitors is with these sleeping funds.” Solicitors Regulation Author - across the country have dor - ity to release the money to mant funds in their accounts. Since 2012, Chafes has do - charity. It’s usually small amounts nated over £25,000 of dor - but these could add up to a mant funds to The Christie. Practice Manager Caroline substantial donation so I Calverley said, “We explored urge firms to review their ac -

From left, Vicky Biggs, Commercial Litigation Solicitor at Myerson, Steve Dayman, Founder of Meningitis Now, Denis Law, charity patron, Richard Lloyd, Partner at Myerson, and Becky Dodd, Meningitis Now North West fundraiser Former Manchester Meningitis B in September Partner at Myerson, said: “It United and Manchester 2010. was fantastic to see so many City football legend Denis members of staff at Myer - Law lines up alongside Isabelle was just 7 when she son take part in the Greater local solicitors and menin - became gravely ill after con - Manchester Marathon. We gitis charity staff to re - tracting Meningitis B. For a are really pleased to have ceive a cheque for £11,000 time, she was in paediatric raised such a significant to help fight the disease. intensive care. Over the amount of money for week that followed there Meningitis Now and we are Denis, patron of the UK’s were signs that Isabelle was sure it will be put to good largest meningitis charity slowly stabilising, but her use”. Meningitis Now, was joined family was told that she by the charity’s founder would have to have her Meningitis Now founder Steve Dayman, North West lower arms and legs ampu - Steve Dayman MBE, who regional fundraiser Becky tated as they had been so launched the UK’s meningi - Dodd and Richard Lloyd badly damaged by the sep - tis movement after losing and Vicky Biggs of Altrin - ticaemia. his baby Spencer to the dis - cham-based solicitors Myer - ease in 1982, said: “We’re re - Sailing success for Jefferies Solicitors son, who raised the money Isabelle underwent her am - ally grateful to Denis for his through a team of runners putation surgery in October support and to the Myerson Altrincham-based Jefferies licitors comprised Michael great team building exercise successfully completing the 2010 and has since made an team for taking on this Solicitors Ltd secured a Jefferies, Mike Mawdsley, and a lot of fun for all in - Greater Manchester amazing recovery. She went marathon challenge. What podium finish at the 2014 Karl Rushton, Karl Dilworth, volved.” Marathon in April. back to school in January an amazing achievement to Temple Legal Regatta - Geraldine Bailey, Debbie Gill, 2011. She now has pros - raise so much money from raising £810 for charity in Deborah Adams, Frances Jefferies Solicitors is splitting thetic blades which she it. Without people like them, the process. Marsh, Michelle Read, Lizzie the £810 equally between Myerson chose to raise walks and runs everywhere we couldn’t continue our Woodcock, Joanne Waring, two charities - Headway money for Meningitis Now The Regatta, which took Danielle O’Connor, Lorraine Brain Injury Trust and C.A.F.T because the charity pro - on, and has prosthetic lower lifesaving work to fund pio - place from Port Hamble Ma - Watkins Duffet and Di Stow. Children’s Adventure Farm vided invaluable support to arms with which she can neering preventative re - rina, just outside Southamp - Trust. Richard Lloyd, a Partner in now write, paint and enjoy search, raise awareness and ton, saw Jefferies Solicitors “The Temple Legal Regatta is the Commercial Property life to the full. support survivors and their enter two teams on board a fantastic event,” said Jefferies Solicitors has been team, and his family when families. superb Beneteau 40.7 Michael Jefferies, Managing providing personal injury his niece Isabelle contracted Carl Newton, Managing yachts, under the expert Director at Jefferies Solici - legal services for 18 years. guidance of a professional tors. “It is all about charity, The firm is jointly managed skipper and first mate. with competitors racing for by Michael Jefferies and the honour of donating to Monina Ramsden. The crews from Jefferies So - their chosen cause. It was a

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To advertise in The Messenger please call Julia Baskerville on 01253 829431 email: [email protected] Charity & CSR 19 Slater & Gordon in training for Tough Mudder Charity Football match raises funds for Slater & Gordon Lawyers Women’s health charity have become the largest Corporate Team to event Stockport-based solicitors chaired by Professor Robert year-long fundraising drive the Tough Mudder chal - Gorvins have hosted a Winston and its patron is TV for Genesis that is being led lenge on 13 September. charity football tourna - presenter Fern Britton. Gen - from the top. The team will face a 12- ment at Soccer in the City esis raises funds for the mile slog including fire, in Manchester to raise largest UK-based collection “We aim to inspire our em - water, and electric shock. £1,200 for women’s health of scientists and clinicians ployees and partners to get charity, the Genesis Re - researching the causes and involved and make a differ - A whopping total of 49 men search Trust. cures for conditions that af - ence, and the tournament is and women from their staff fect the health of women testament to that.” have already signed up to Gorvins raised funds for The and babies. the challenge. Members of Genesis Research Trust to in - Paul Longmire, Marketing Slater & Gordon’s Manches - crease awareness of the The football tournament is Manager and Chairman of ter and Liverpool offices are charity among its business the latest in a series of Gorvins’ Charities Commit - currently training hard for networks and the Greater fundraising efforts to sup - tee commented: “The char - Tough Mudder. Manchester community. port Genesis Research Trust. ity tournament was a great Eleven teams from Gorvins’ Managing Partner Lorraine opportunity to spread the Neurosupport intend to use suppliers and clients battled Lockie is spearheading word about the fantastic the money raised to help us it out on the pitch before Gorvins’ activities by taking work Genesis Research Trust expand the information and Natwest Commercial Bank - part in a sponsored cycle does, and raise valuable advice we can offer to chil - ing won the final match ride across Tanzania in No - funds in the process.” dren and young people against Kings Chambers, 2 - vember, with a fundraising with neurological issues. 1. target of £5,000. Professor Robert Winston, chairman of Genesis Re - Neurosupport CEO Nanette The competing teams, Lorraine’s bike ride marks search Trust also said: “We Mellor said:"When we think along with Gorvins, who the start of the firm’s latest are very grateful to Gorvins about people with neuro - participated to raise money CSR drive, which each year for hosting this event and logical issues such as de - included Booth Ainsworth will see a different equity would like to thank them mentia and Parkinson’s LLP, Cake Solutions, Cobden partner nominate a charity and all the competing Disease we often only even House, Carbogen Amcis and lead fundraising activ - teams for their efforts in think about older people. (part of Dishman Europe), ity across the Firm. raising over £1,000. It’s great But there are many children Kings Chambers, Midshire to make people aware of and young people who are Business Systems, Natwest, Lorraine Lockie, Gorvins what the charity stands for faced with a similar diagno - Prest Financial, St John’s Managing Partner, said: and to have an event held in sis and for them, the world Buildings and The Vinden “Fundraising for charity has the North West is a fantastic can become a very lonely Partnership. always been important to opportunity to do this.” place Gorvins – but this year we Genesis Research Trust is are upping the ante, with a At Neurosupport we would really like to be able to offer children and young people the kind of information and advice they might need when faced with something like a brain tumour or a brain haemorrhage."

to the sing off which will be judged by some the very Singalong-a-Fran best in the Manchester music industry. Future pro·manchester in tition to be held on the 9th conjunction with LDA – Oct 2014 at Revolution De This is a not for profit event Creating Shared Experi - Cuba, Manchester. and all monies raised will be ences are creating an ex - split equally between the citing new charity event in Each singer will be tasked two charities. aid of Macmillan Cancer with raising as much money Support and Francis as possible in order to get Fran Eccles-Bech, the Chief House Hospice. through to the final at the Executive of Manchester end of the night. Law Society will be singing Eight high profile business in the event, dueting with leaders from within the The two acts with the high - the Chief Executive of pro Greater Manchester region est amount of money raised manchester, John Ashcroft. will go mic to mic in an ‘X (after all 8 acts have per - Factor’ style singing compe - formed) will be put through A night not to be missed! Mike Malone, captain of the winning team, Natwest Commercial Banking, receiving the win - ner’s trophy from Mark Deverell of Gorvins Solicitors

Send your Charity & CSR news to [email protected] The deadline for the October edition is 11th September 20 Events Deans Court celebrate Eliminating the stress from On the 20th June 2014 We also celebrated wining could not be achieved with - your event Deans Court Chambers Regional Chambers of the out them and they deserve held a dinner at The Lowry Year at the Manchester our appreciation.” By Parallel was launched to celebrate a fantastic Evening News Annual by Alison Hibbert over 10 year following the success Awards ceremony - the first More recently on 28th July years ago. With a back - of the set in the last 12 set on Circuit to have won Chambers was delighted to ground in the hotel and months. the award for 2 consecutive hear that Jonathan Butler catering trade, she de - years. was appointed to the Circuit cided to use these skills This included a number of Bench and will predomi - and experience to build a notable achievements by Head of Chambers, Craig nantly sit in Chester with a business providing event members and former mem - Sephton QC, commented: Family ticket and with s.(9) management, marketing, bers of Chambers. “This dinner reflects the (1) authorisation to sit as a social media and business best of Deans Court. First judge of the High Court on development to a whole Tim Smith was appointed to class advocates who have more complex cases. The host of diverse busi - the Circuit Bench, His Hon - the intellect and outstand - set has also recruited estab - nesses. Adding to these our Judge Stockdale QC was ing ability to demonstrate lished practitioners James services she also estab - appointed as the Honorary our worth in the market Hogg to its civil team and lished Confetti Queens, Recorder of Manchester (a promoting the expertise in Arron Thomas to its family organising wedding first for Deans Court) and the North for national and Court of Protection and fayres and events for that we celebrated the retire - recognition. Community Care Law team special day. ment of The Honourable Mr - to emphasise its ability to Justice Henriques. Notable We should not forget, how - attract first class advocates Alison offers a whole range cases whilst at Deans Court ever, those who deserve which meets its strategic of services for law firms, included the prosecution of most praise are the clients aims of excellence. from organising christmas the Bulger case, and prose - who continue to support us. parties, summer events, cuting Harold Shipman be - We are committed to being teambuilding events and fore being his appointed to a leading set in this country corporate hospitality. Alison the High Court Bench. and on this Circuit and this can manage any event from the original concept. She which fit their requirements in terms of size, location and says “I take a very hands-on within their budget. Every client is different and may have a approach to organsing specific “wish” list, I make it a priority to find the perfect events. This starts with a venue and there is no cost at all to the client.” meeting with the client and tailor-making a package To find out how By Parallel can arrange your event or which fits their needs and source the perfect venue, call Alison on 0161 498 9046 matches their budget. It’s all or email: [email protected] about listening to what the client wants, but also help - What clients have to say...... ing to eliminate the stress.” What an absolute delight it has been working with you over the When organising events, Al - last year at Chill Factore and previously at other venues. The ison is able to meet clients’ ‘client evenings’ which you arranged throughout last summer, very specific requests; from introduced us to a whole new ‘Corporate’ clientele and the table and room decorations bookings that resulted have been plentiful and of excellent to themed evenings and quality and value. We also asked you to organise the New Year children’s birthday parties party at Chill Factore and your attention to detail and perse - verance, resulted in a brilliant event, much enjoyed by all the As well as organising guests. events, Alison offers a no cost venue finding service. Andrew Johnson Clients often come to Alison Sales Manager - Chill Factore with requests to find hotels for events, training, parties "What a fantastic evening we had, not only did our ball go and she will find a number without a hitch but the professional manner in which every de - of suitable options which fit tail was arranged by Alison and her team made the night a The picture shows the current members, former members who sit as full time judges, with their specific require - stress free event for all. Cannot wait to get planning our next retired judges, senior clerks and partners. We raised a toast to you all say a massive ments and budgets. Alison event with you. The North West Air Ambulance team would can also book hotels for have no hesitation in recommending your services." “Thank you”. We very much value and appreciate your business and look forward to weekend breaks, away days working with you for the future . and business meetings. She Ged Jones adds “I have found venues Head of Fundraising - North West Air Ambulance for a number of law firms Events 21 Express Solicitors Summer Party 2014 Charlotte’s ambassadorial role On 5th July 2014, employees at Express Solicitors were treated to a summer party at Community charity ‘For - Managing Partner, James Maxey’s house in Winsford. ever Manchester’ has added a new ‘Ambas - The party commenced with Prosecco and canapés, which was soon followed with a hog sador’ to its ranks, in the roast, lasagne and salad amongst many other delicious accompaniments. shape of family law solici - tor Charlotte Brinsley, Entertainment for the day comprised of a children’s entertainer, face painting, a charity from law firm Slater & raffle, bouncy castle, and a live 80’s tribute band! Gordon.

Everyone had a fantastic time and luckily the weather stayed glorious all day so everyone Forever Manchester, which could sit out and enjoy the sunshine. describes itself as ‘The char - ity for people with a passion The charity raffle raised an impressive £640.00 which has been donated to the Forever for Manchester’, raises Manchester charity and you can find out more about that here. money for people and groups trying to make a positive change in neigh - bourhoods across Greater Manchester. As a commu - nity foundation, they do in - valuable work, strengthening local com - munities, creating opportu - nities and tackling issues of disadvantage and exclu - sion.

Ambassadors for the charity commit to contributing ideas for fundraising cam - Said Charlotte, who was born and brought up in Romiley paigns and raising the For - and went to school in Cheadle Hulme, “We raise and distrib - ever Manchester profile, ute money to support local people and groups trying to with the ultimate aim of make a positive change. Without funding these groups and building a £50 million infin - projects would really struggle to even exist. I got involved ity fund to ensure Manches - two years ago and have seen first-hand how Forever Man - ter communities can be chester helps to raise funds and help so that people can be served ‘forever’. proud of where they live.

Social: out of the silo, into the strategy A few years ago it seemed give it a helping hand by personality. everyone was buzzing using social to distribute about social media. While your content. Advertising challenges Charity Raffle Raises £640.00 for the buzz has died down, the importance really hasn't. That process will be all the Not to be overlooked of Forever Manchester Charity In fact, as usage becomes more effective if you have course is the paid option, i.e. more ingrained, as plat - invested time in building up placing advertising on so - forms become more refined a good presence, with en - cial networks. As some of On 5th July 2014, employees at Express Solicitors were treated to a summer party at Man - and as content discovery gaged and relevant follow - the most-visited sites on the aging Partner, James Maxey’s house in Winsford. becomes paramount, it ers who are in the habit of web, social networks pres - could be argued that social interacting and sharing - ent a huge audience for During the party a charity raffle was held to raise money for the Forever Manchester char - is more important than building relationships with your ads, which further - ity. There were some fantastic prizes up for grabs that were supplied by the partners for ever; which is why putting it 'power users' can also work more can often be targeted the raffle. 1st prize was a weekend in an Aston Martin DB9, 2nd prize was a flat screen TV, in a silo distinct from your wonders. The desired effect by demographics and inter - and 3rd prize was a £200.00 red letter day voucher. Other prizes included chocolates, marketing strategy is a is that - like ripples in a pond ests to capture only the champagne, whiskey, a car valet, and an evening on the driving range with Partner, huge mistake. - every share broadens your most relevant audience seg - Richard Lowery. reach, and increases the ment. However, social ad - The power of your pres - likelihood of you earning a vertising requires a certain ence link or a lead. knack to ensure effective messaging, design and tar - A good social media pres - As for brand, 21st century geting, and of course, can ence can offer several bene - habits mean social has be - be costly. fits, both to an SEO come an indispensible tool campaign and your brand. for awareness, reputation Treating social as a silo or af - In 2014, SEO relies on pro - and engagement. The way terthought will result in in - ducing irresistibly creative customers interact with consistencies and missed and useful content – the brands has fundamentally opportunities. For forward- links gained from which are changed – we don't write thinking businesses, social a sure sign of authority and complaint letters any more, is now a core part of their trust, meaning Google will we tweet for all the world to digital strategy – and is still rank you more highly. But see. Social is an unmissable worth buzzing about. creating and publishing chance to win trust, to con - that content is only half the nect with your audience battle; you then need to and to give your business a

Overall the raffle was a huge success and there were a number of lucky winners! The raffle managed to raise an impressive £640.00 which has been donated to the firm’s nominated charity – Forever Manchester.

Compli by Weightmans

Michelle Garlick is a Partner at Weightmans and heads up Compli which is a bespoke risk management consultancy service. Compli delivers a full-service, flexible package of tailored support to lawyers, in - cluding expert legal and best practice advice, as well as assistance on regulation, compliance, business management and structure. Michelle is frequently invited to undertake risk-sensitive audits on behalf of law firms whose man - agement teams are keen to have an independent expert benchmark the firm against both their com - pliance obligations and industry best practice. Here Michelle answers some questions.

What is a law firm audit all about?

It is easy to buy-in to the idea of an audit without first appreciating what an effective audit is designed to achieve. It should integrate with your risk management framework and assist you in identifying the key issues your firm needs to tackle as a priority. Investing in an independent expert report not only gives the benefit of a fresh pair of eyes, it also acts as currency for COLPs/COFAs and risk managers who need to gather support from within the business for risk management initiatives.

What does an audit typically cover?

There is no magical formula used to produce the perfect audit since no two law firms are the same. Because I spent the early part of my career pursuing and then defending negligence claims against professionals, I have hands-on experience of the range of issues that make lawyers vulnerable. This translates to our audit: as well as covering the traditional favourites e.g. compliance with the SRA Code plus Authorisation and Framework rules, my team pays particular attention to uncovering the behaviours we associate with the average law firm’s Achilles heel.

How does an audit help firms get to grips with the cost of risk and compliance?

I asked a number of COLPs and COFAs how long they spent on risk and compliance, bearing in mind many compliance officers wear multiple hats e.g. MLRO, complaints/conflicts partner, and found that on an av - erage they could easily spend 10 hours a week fire fighting. For those firms who do not have the luxury of full-time compliance support (and even those who have), very few have the necessary management infor - mation to understand the true cost of compliance. An audit should empower a firm to decide where it wants to focus its limited resources and it can also be used to generate a risk management submission for issuing to insurers come renewal time.

What happens next?

The Compli team delivers an audit service which can be tailored to suit the needs of your firm and is of - fered as either a stand alone service or as part of our Bronze, Silver, Gold retainer package of compliance support services. If you want to discuss how we might be able to assist you please get in touch on 0845 070 1047 or [email protected] 24 Feature Management Matters This column is now into its fifth year and feedback is still good. We would still like to receive observations and ideas for future issues. Please mail Bill Kirby at [email protected] or the publisher Julia Baskerville at [email protected]

Just back from the holidays – in time for the ferent these days from any other business apart from the fact • Working capital required – lock up management, pricing and management cycle that we have owner managers in the business. payment terms • Risks – activities above plus compliance, market trends I guess the key message at this stage is; It is essential that we do not assume the status quo and base • Support requirements 1. push push push to year end and our budgets on the number of fee earners we are likely to have 2. plan properly for next year sufficiently early. Here is my and the expected billing performance from realisation against It is only then that we can ask department heads to start work checklist and innovations to help……………. an hourly rate. on their budgets for the new fiscal. Marketing initiatives, Billing increase guideline of say 20% year on year, GP guideline with September is a great month of the year – holidays over and back We need to know where our business is going to come from – say a minimum of 60% for some departments, adoption of IT to to the joys of work - and if your financial year end is December retained existing clients repeat and new work types and new up the business processes. Unfortunately you cannot ask peo - it is a critical time. For those whose financial year end is March business and what other factors are going to influence our prof- ple to up GP % in isolation as they may be tempted to cut costs then this paper applies from January 2nd. itability. and not actually grow revenue. We have three months to go (that’s all) to the year end and the Many firms now have a three year rolling strategy that is up - As well as the guidelines there are a minimum of three key job publication of our financial performance it is essential that per - dated annually around about this time to give budget guide - descriptions that need to be issued and accepted as part of the formance against key criteria is essential and availability of rel - lines for the next fiscal. Also many firms have not got this process (others can follow). It is following on from my needs of evant KPIs is critical at least on a weekly basis in order to affect discipline. clear accountability (and who knows meritocracy with profits performance. share). From day one all fee earners must be very clear on the The ne xt essential step is to develop this three year outline strat- expected contribution that they will make as delegated by their egy. Th Billing is is often done at a gathering of partners and irrespec- department head. So clear job descriptions and accountabili - tive o Gross Profit f size of firm is not well enough documented with ties for the managing partner (plus a deputy if another partner milest Chargeable Time ones and certainly not communicated well enough to the is overseeing IT or business development), the head of finance people Working Capital and Lock Up that are going to make it happen. The very next event is and perhaps most important of all that of the department head, often - Unpaid bills the budget with little notice taken of the strategy. We who should be the person completing the budget for his de - have t - Unpaid disbursements o change all this. partment within the guidelines. - WIP - Realisable WIP Taking Stock We have discussed the department head accountabilities be - It is pretty essential that we know where we are as a business at fore but in summary Every individual, team leader, department head and support this point in time and where we were a year ago so we need to • Personal and team billing performance v targets consistently functions need absolute clarity on what is expected of them capture some basic data. We do not have to overdo the exercise • Cost reduction – GP performance, business process, use of IT, along with milestones and continuous review. It is pressure, staff structure • Locat pressure, pressure. ions and staff numbers by grade • Response to KPIs to actively recover or enhance situations real • Work -types by locations and value an % of business time We are nine months into our year with three months to go to • Gross Profit by work-type • Working capital – realisable WIP, time recording, billing, pay - meet the expectations of our banks, our staff and ourselves. • Majo r clients and contribution to revenue ment terms, cash collection It is probably too late to depend on new business development The year ago figure can be a static number but the current year • Team business development – cross selling, new business, activities affecting this year’s performance apart from files that numbers need to be trended by month and with a forecast for more of the same can generate a quick turn round – Wills, LPAs, Conveyancing. the year end. This will indicate to all a potential running rate for • Ensure a strong client experience, minimising complaints en - The activities need to continue to provide work going into the the start of the new year. couraging advocates and referrers New Year. • Accountability for team compliance Before we do • Staff management and development – succession planning, It goes without saying that expenditure on overheads and the In many cases strategic development workshops are futile as ensure resource to respond to business development and key recruiting of new staff needs to see a related Return on Invest - often partners, many of them have known one another for years objectives ment. are no t necessarily honest or should I say open. So I always rec- Some current department heads may not want this – hence the ommend a little questionnaire is circulated ahead of any such Next Year pre strategy meeting questionnaire which is fine if they wish to meeting by the managing partner and he then consolidates In three months time we also start a new financial year and will remain as a key fee earner but they have to be prepared to step and issues a report. be operating with a new budget and I am afraid the preparation aside and allow the new blood to operate with their support. time needs to start now. The fir m needs to know which partners enjoy management and Measuring Our Success the ad ditional tasks associated with it – there could well be a Many people say the budget is the budget and this is how we Our business, whose products and service are “law” are no dif - more a ppropriate junior person in the team. The same applies should measure ourselves – not so I am afraid. As a business we to bus iness development – again there are naturals, some good, at all times need to be able to adapt to changing circumstances some bad and some that hate it. Finally and perhaps the most – recognise pit falls as early as possible and capitalise on oppor - critica l is the career expectations of the partners. If they are tunities. This means continuous review. asked, some are able to stun their colleagues by talking about retirement in two to three years and a real fundamental is good All key measures need to be reported on a trend basis and by succession planning for management purposes and certainly month 2 we are in a position to consider where we are stand - the retention of commercial client relationships. ing. Up or down on the two months budget so we need to de - cide if a loss is recoverable and what actions we are going to With these cards on the table we can then review strategy and take to do so or if we have landed in a gold mine how much consequently the basis for our budget activity and maybe even more can we do. something closer to hand - the next three months. With noth - ing to hide and the interest of the firm at heart we can be at our There is therefore a responsibility on a department head to re - most constructive. port on the reason for plus or minus and then to forecast to the Our Strategy year end – 2+10, 3+9, 4+8 etc. He needs to seek approval from Again we do not have to overdo this exercise. We have already his peers for revised figures (or the managing partner or both) taken stock and seen what is going well and what not quite so and that revised figure then becomes the forecast and conse - well. quently the new item for future measurement or adjustment. In two months someone has exceeded GP by say £20k he should We have to decide what sort of firm we are going to be bear - be asked to confirm that that money will be added to the fore - ing in mind the capability, the market and the partner’s ambi - cast for the balance of the year. If someone is down by £20k tions. What is fundamental is that we cannot plan to continue then he needs to make clear what he is going to do about it or as we are and not to grow. not and again appropriate adjustments made to the forecast. • Current, more or less locations If someone wants to spend discretionary money such as mar - • National or further regional ambitions keting or additional IT, it does no harm to get them to justify the • Work type focus ROI and to readjust the forecast as a result. Likewise, if someone • Balance of new business, client retention and repeat and ad - is not committing to the IT and business process capabilities, to ditional business – more work-types enhance performance to budget levels, then there is a neces - • The kind of structure that will operate and deliver this sary discussion. • Key staff – lawyers and business development, finance and HR professionals Bill Kirby is a director of Professional Choice Consultancy offering • Growth objectives – fee income, GP, GP% by work-types advice to firms on business issues from strategy, planning, business • Profitability source – leverage, staff mix, costs, efficiency, utili- development, the effective use of IT applications and IT hosting for sation, IT compliance, business continuity and DR. He can be contacted at • Business source and route to market [email protected] Local News 25

As an active member of the That brings my year as Chair The Manchester Trainee So - MTSG during my first year as to a close. I would like to licitors Group provides social, a trainee, I have been able take this final opportunity educational, sporting and to witness first-hand the to thank the Manchester networking opportunities for MTSG News hard work and effort of the Law Society who have wel - junior legal professionals in committee in all areas. The comed and supported me and around Manchester. If newly elected committee throughout the year. To the It’s been a great summer so you would like to join us as a SAS Daniels - give your - James Parker – BLM; Treas - and I intend to continue and Council and the MTSG far. The photographs from paralegal, prospective selves a pat on the back! urer Purva Arora – JMW So - build on the successes of 2013/2014 committee – it the MTSG Summer ball have trainee, trainee or newly licitors LLP; Activities the former committee. has been a pleasure work - been released and are a Of course, this year would Secretary Kate Berry - Pan - qualified solicitor, please visit MTSG 2014/15 promises to ing with you. the ‘Join Us’ section of our great reminder of the fun not have been possible none part of Slater & Gor - be an exciting year and we that was had on the night; website: www.mtsg.org.uk without our loyal and sup - don. look forward to working Raana Afsarpour visit our website for the full portive sponsors: Express with both current and new Express Solicitors set. Pictured are Gemma Solicitors, Deans Court Congratulations to Kieran members.” Chair 2013/2014 Rush and Iona Chambers, Wesleyan, Dou - and the rest of the commit - Kobbekaduwe from the glas Scott, BCL Legal, tee; I wish you the very best headline sponsor, Douglas Anakin Seal, Hays, Search, of luck. Scott Legal Recruitment. University of Law, BLM, DWF IWM North is available for and Turner Parkinson to corporate and private hire. name a few. We are very The iconic building is lo - grateful for your commit - cated next to the new Coro - ment to the development of nation Street studios and is Manchester’s legal profes - an innovative and dynamic sionals. exhibition space, ideal for dinners, drinks receptions, Now without further ado, product launches, award following a highly con - dinners, summer parties, tested election, I’m pleased Christmas parties, wed - to announce this year’s dings, conferences and MTSG election winners and meetings. To find out more the 2014/2015 committee: email: [email protected]. Chair Kieran Duignan – Pan - The MTSG elections drew to none part of Slater & Gor - a close last month and the don (pictured); General When asked for comment hundreds of votes were Secretries Jessica Holt - Pan - Kieran said: “It is an honour counted and verified reveal - none part of Slater & Gor - to have been elected as ing a stellar committee for don and Camille Chair of the MTSG. Man - the year to come. I’d like to Stephenson – Laytons; So - chester is a diverse and vi - take this opportunity to cial Secretaries Adam Hat - brant city replete with thank the 2013/2014 com - tersley – BLM, Soibi talent and I, along with all of mittee for their tireless work Iketubosin – Leslie Charles the MTSG committee, am on behalf of the MTSG and Solicitors, Anne Marie Cas - excited at the prospects for its members this year. In no sidy – Kennedys Law LLP; the year ahead. particular order: Ellie Clarke Sponsorship Secretaries Ed – JMW; Stacy Albrighton – Lister - Pannone part of Each year the MTSG grows MYSG News Heaney Watson; Claire Slater & Gordon and Alex both in number and reputa - Tilson - Heaney Watson; Peliza – Laytons; Education tion, and that is something I Hannah Fletcher – Turner Secretaries Adam Russell – will seek to continue. For all The MYSG have plenty of Manchester to join our Parkinson; Rachael Norris ing events. There are also DWF and Tom Parry – Hill those beginning their ca - forthcoming events to group. We arrange social and Nicola Flood - Irwin plans afoot for a netball Dickinson; Sports Secre - reer in the legal profession, welcome the newly quali - events for solicitors, network - Mitchell; Iain Naylor – Ad - tournament, a beer tasting taries Anna Middlebrook – regardless of the route they fied solicitors of Manches - ing events with other profes - dleshaw Goddard; Dave event and a joint event with DLA Piper and Jess Davies – take, it is no secret that, al - ter to the Group. St John’s sional groups in Manchester Murray – Eversheds; Mark MYCAG which will take DWF (Female) and Thomas though rewarding, the work Buildings have kindly including bankers, account - Maclean – BLM; Dan Linton place in late September / Mortimore – DAC can be difficult and time agreed to sponsor our ants and surveyors, educa - – Pannone Part of Slater & early October, so please do Beachcroft (Male); Ball Sec - consuming. Indeed I think newly qualified event tional and CPD seminars, Gordon; Nina Higham – keep checking the website retaries Amy Cassell – Ex - the majority, if not all, who which will take place at and other events which we BLM; Kelly Charlton - Pan - for more details. press Solicitors, Emma Bates enter the legal profession Lock 91 on the 18th Sep - think will be of interest to our none Part of Slater & Gor - – Express Solicitors and appreciate what may be re - tember 2014, we are sure members. Membership is don; Helen Kanczes – DWF; The committee are always Emily Taylor – DWF; Charity quired of them. The work of the event will be a great free and the costs of our Karolina Kola – PWC Legal; keen to bring on board new Secretary Laura Wilkinson – the MTSG in supporting its success and will provide events are met by sponsors. Laura Evans – Eversheds; members, so if anyone does JMW Solicitors LLP; FELT members by organising the newly qualified solici - If you would like to join the Sarah Lewandowski - Pan - want to join the committee Representative Steve Ban - networking, educational, tors some respite from MYSG and you do not cur - none Part of Slater & Gor - please do put yourself for - nell – O’Neill Morgan Solici - social, sporting, charitable their chargeable hours re - rently receive our emails, don; Natalie Churney - ward via the website, any tors; Online Secretary Luke and development/training sponsibilities! please email us at Pannone Part of Slater & new members would be Ainsworth – Berg; JLD Rep - events is therefore of great [email protected], or contact Gordon; and Steven Percy – very welcome! resentative importance. If you do want to attend us through our website, this event please do visit the The MYSG has over 1,000 www.mysg.org.uk or via our MYSG website at members and we invite Facebook page, "Manchester http://www.mysg.org.uk qualified solicitors up to 10 Lawyers". and click on “membership” years PQE (excluding Part - to sign up for the forthcom - ners) from in and around

Call: 01392 423607 26 PII Getting to know you... This month Charlotte Faid, Associate Solicitor at Stephensons Solicitors talks to the Messenger

Name: cuts to public funding in pri - worked through their issues much time to really relax. Charlotte Faid vate disputes. The majority and have been empowered However when I do, I love of people involved in family by reaching their own set - gardening and sitting on Job Role: disputes – such as divorce tlement which they both my patio with a book, a cat Associate Solicitor, Collabo - and finances or child con - think is fair. on my knee and a good cup rative lawyer & Mediator tact issues - no longer have of coffee. access to legal aid, so there Who inspires you? Firm: has been a surge in the My mum - she is a selfless, Is there a book that had an Stephensons Solicitors LLP amount of unrepresented hardworking and beautiful impact on your life? parties at court. The re - person (not that she thinks My Family and Other Ani - Area of practice: moval of legal aid has that about herself which I mals by Gerald Durrell. The Family Law, with a special - threatened access to justice love about her too). book values the importance ism in mediation for many, especially for vul - of everything in life, from nerable people. Do you have any advice the smallest bug, to family What if you hadn’t gone for anyone considering a life, to growing up and all in into the legal profession, What work gives you the career in the law? the lovely setting of sunny what alternative career most satisfaction? Give it a try first. Work dur - Greece. would you choose? Since Mediation Informa - ing your holidays or year I would have liked to have tion and Assessment Meet - out to get a feel for what Sum up yourself in 3 worked outdoors, maybe ings became a mandatory might be involved before words. doing outdoor activities or requirement for separating making any big decisions or Reliable, compassionate, running a campsite- some - couples seeking a court financial commitments. If friendly thing completely different. order to resolve a dispute you decide to go for a career over children or finances, in law, hopefully it will mean What do you see as the mediation has become a that you will already have a biggest challenges facing greater part of my work - foot in the door. If you would like to be featured in the profession today? load. I get the most satisfac - “Getting to know you” please I think the biggest chal - tion from a successful How do you relax? lenge to the legal profes - mediation case when the I’m a scout leader in my email sion is the Government’s parties involved have spare time so I don’t have [email protected] 1ERGLIWXIV0E[7SGMIX] QIQFIVVI[EVHGEVH 

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For Psychiatric reports in Civil & Criminal Cases Many of their psychiatrists work at LAA rates and typically complete reports within 1-2 weeks of instruction. They also offer flexible payment terms incl. deferred payment to solic - Consulting rooms nationwide: LAA Rates itors in compensation claims.

Call us now for CV’s of Experts local to your clients, fee estimates & With over 800 consulting rooms across the UK, solicitors are now able to instruct the most swift report completion local expert convenient to their client, save time and travel costs Solicitors can call: 0845 838 1715 to obtain expert CV’s and detailed fees estimates or 0845 838 1715 email [email protected] [email protected] Nationwide Network of Independent Psychiatrists

The Adult, Child, Forensic, Learning Disabilities, Substance Misuse, Older Adults Pychiatrists Practice A Consultant Neurologist since 2003, Dr Hinds provides General Neurology, specialist pe - ripheral nerve and nerve Conduction/EMG services to the population of South and West Dr Hinds Wales. Prior to his current appointment at ABM University Health Board in Swansea, he was a Con - Consultant Neurologist sultant at The Walton Centre in Liverpool providing specialist peripheral nerve and Nerve Areas of expertise include all general Neurological disorders including conduction/EMG service as well as lecturing medical students from the University of Liver - pool on a regular basis. Dr Hinds has undertaken specialist training in Neurology and clinical epilepsy, peripheral nerve disorders, and spinal cord disease/injuries Neurophysiology at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London and Uni - including whiplash and traumatic brain injury. versity Hospital of Wales, Cardiff. His areas of expertise include all general Neurological disorders including epilepsy, periph - Medical Negligence work is undertaken on a national basis. eral nerve disorders, and spinal cord disease/injuries including whiplash and traumatic brain injury. Medical Negligence work is undertaken on a national basis. Dr Hinds has written peer Tel: 01792 703688 review publications and has 10 years of medico-legal report writing experience and training. He has completed training in Medico-Legal Report Writing in Civil Claims (Core Skills) and Fax: 01792 703249 has been certified as having achieved the required standard by the Expert Witness Institute Mobile: 07767 354453 (EWI.). Email: [email protected] Website: www.neurologist-wales.co.uk

Dr Russell Keenan is a Consultant Paediatric Haematologist with over twenty years experience Dr Russell Keenan across all aspects of paediatric haematology, including clinical and laboratory aspects of malig - nant haematology , leukaemia, stem cell transplantation, haemophilias and other bleeding dis - Consultant Paediatric Haematologist orders, thrombophilias, sickle cell disease, thalassaemias, transfusion medicine and benign haematological disease. He has over eight years of experience in producing Medico-legal expert reports, which have in - Consultant Paediatric Haematologist with over twenty years cluded cases of medical negligence in relation to paediatric haematology and child protection experience across all aspects of paediatric haematology, in relation to the presence or absence of a bleeding disorder. including clinical and laboratory aspects of malignant Dr Keenan has worked extensively with counsel and has court experience. haematology, leukaemia, stem cell transplantation, haemophilias and other bleeding disorders, thrombophilias, His reports are succint, with all scientific and medical language explained and the basis of any sickle cell disease, thalassaemias, transfusion medicine and opinions explained and referenced as required. He has attended an Expert Witness Intensive benign haematological disease. Course for Healthcare professionals and this is reviewed annually in his appraisal within the NHS. He is a member of United Kingdom Haemophilia Centre Directors Organisation, UK Na - Also experienced in the haematological aspects of child protection cases. tional Childhood Leukaemia Working Party organising leukaemia clinical trials, American Soci - ety of Haematology, British Society of Haematology and The Haemophilia Society. Dr Keenan is also a member of the UK Haemoglobinopathy Forum and has written national guidelines with Tel: 0151 228 4811 the National Institute of Clinical Excellence. Email: [email protected]

Risk Update

Welcome to the September edition of Risk Update.

Reduction in Minimum Terms

TThehe Legal Services Board has brought some sanity into the Solicitors Regulatory Authority’s attempt to bounce through changes to the Minimum Terms with obscene haste.

It would appear that all the major Stakeholders, including The Law Society, Insurers and Lenders have voiced their objection.

FromFrom a broker’s viewpoint, there appears to be no logic in the proposed changes, other than from a misjudged political perspective.perspective.

The SRA do not have access to any meaningful claims statistics (other than SIF, pre 2000) and therefore are simply not in a pospositionition to make judgements wwhichhich revolve around the pricing of covers for particular bandings of Legal Firms, it’s just a nonsense.

Whilst the LSB could possibly respond prior to their new deadline of Mid October, therefore post 2014 renewal, I very much doudoubtbt they will given the strength of opposition to the proposals.

It is now essential that those Firms ZKRPD\KDYHEHHQD΍HFWHGE\ZKRPD\ KDYH EHHQ D΍HFWHG E\ ProfessionalProfessional Indemnity Insurance: tthehe changes, and as a consequconsequenceence have delayed progressing renewal, now act quickly to obtain terms. TTIMEIME IS RUNNING OOUT.UT. Cyber Liability (Handling of Data)

In a recent Times Article, headed GETGET YYOUROUROUR RENEWRENEWALAL TTERMSERMS NONOW!W! Ȋ/DZ\HUVULVNeȴQHIRUȊ/DZ\HUVULVN e ȴQH IRU data loss”, it is explained in rather alarmist fashion that Legal Firms couldcould be at substantial risk for not adequatelyadequately managing their data ThankThank youyou for explaining KDQGOLQJSURFHVVHV7KHVHȴQHVDUHKDQGOLQJSURFHVVHV 7KHVH ȴQHV DUH ssomeome ofof thethe covercover issues not covered under the Professional Indemnity (Minimum Terms) cover. to me... MFL Professional can provide cover WWRPHHWWKHVHW\SHVRIȴQHSOXVDRPHHW WKHVH W\SHV RI ȴQH SOXV D ȴȴUVWSDUW\FRYHUWRDVVLVW/HJDO)LUPVUVWSDUW\ FRYHU WR DVVLVW /HJDO )LUPV  wwithith the containing and handling of the reputational issues which would inevitably follow.

Regulatory Fine and Penalties

In her latest article for The 00HVVHQJHU5HJXODWRU\$΍DLUVHVVHQJHU5HJXODWRU\ $΍DLUV Committee Update, Michelle Garlick has made the point that the majority of insurers exclude defence costs if a lawyer comes under the radar of the SRA/SDT. She is quite correct. ThisThis is a complicated areaarea and much ...I...I willwill now finalisefinalise mymy is open to interpretation, usually where a combination of events is renewalreenewalnewal quotation! involved.

//HJDOȴUPVVKRXOGVHHNWRSURWHFWHJDOȴUPV VKRXOG VHHN WR SURWHFW tthemselveshemselves and arrange separate cover for both defence costs and cover for Civil Fines.

ContactContact uuss fforor ffree,ree, nono obligation quotations or advice: MMFLFL PrProfessionalofessional is a ddivisionivision of MMcParlandcParlandarland Finn Ltd. McPMcParlandarland KevinKevin McPMcParland,aarland,rland, Managing DirDirectorector - TT:: 01601611 236 25325322 E: [email protected] FinnFinn Ltd is authorised and rregulatedegulated JohnJ Jones,Jones, DevDevelopmentelopmentelopment ExExecutiveecutive - TT:: 0101601611 232377 7739 E: [email protected] bbyy tthehe FFinancialinancial CConductonductonduct AuthorityAuthority..

32 Lifestyle

- Decrease stress! - Take 1-2 tablets of DIM (diindolylmethane, naturally found in cruciferous vegetables) How To Lose The Moobs per day - Take Calcium-d-Glucarate, which supports healthy oestrogen metabolism in the If you’re a man who could currently use a size B bra rather than a tight t-shirt, and want to liver, especially if you encounter spots or any other symptoms indicating that oestr boost your performance in the bedroom and become leaner, read on… ogen is having a hard time being eliminated - Take zinc (50mg per day for 8-12 weeks is a good amount unless you’ve had a Red Excess adipose tissue around the pectorals – moobs - are a sure sign that all is not as it Blood Cell test performed and/or are under the care of an appropriately qualified should be when it comes to male hormone balance – and the affects are not limited professional – zinc can be toxic at very high levels) solely to an unmanly chest, but also to your body composition, sex drive, and longevity. - Take resveratrol - Take a tablespoon of ground flax seeds every morning, not only will it help to bind The reason for this is aromatase – an enzyme produced in the liver that converts what and carry oestrogen out of your body, but it’ll work wonders for your digestive sys should end up as testosterone into oestrogen, making you hormonally more female than tem function! you might want to be. Remember as well, that aromatase is not only a problem for men with moobs, but also a So what can I do? serious consideration for women when thinking about reducing the risk of oestrogen re - ceptor positive breast cancer – the class of drugs including Arimidex are powerful aro - Luckily there are several natural strategies and compounds that can aid in our quest to re - matase inhibitors. duce aromatisation and oestrogen, and increase testosterone conversion: three sixtyº Personal Training is based on Bridge St and is a unique, private health - Reduce visceral adipose tissue (the fat on the inside of your body around your waist) clinic and personal training gym dedicated to taking care of Manchester’s busy pro - - Control your blood sugar levels, follow a low glycaemic load diet fessionals. - Exercise regularly - Increase your vitamin D (test every 12 weeks - vitamin D can be toxic at very high For more information visit www.threesixtypersonaltraining.co.uk, call Matt on levels). 125-150nmol is a good level to shoot for 07971 192357, or email [email protected] - Drink green tea twitter: @threesixtyfit facebook: /threesixtyfit - Reduce your inflammation – we measure a blood marker called C-Reactive Protein, which should be under 1.0 – fish oil, vitamin D and turmeric are all great, natural, Manchester Law Society Members receive a 10% discount on personal training anti-inflammatories upon production of their Benefits of Membership Card Lifestyle 33 The W rld according to Fran This month I shall be telling you all about my other man, my lovely Spanish husband, Peter - his was also put into the sat nav (so what’s the point of the hand written ones I ask myself?). real name is Pedro. (Actually his real full name is Pedro Pablo Bech Casanova – as if I was EVER going to be called Casanova!!!!!) And they were off – very excited (and a bit nervous I think). He promised me he would ride carefully, text every morning and ring every night so I knew he had left the hotel and then ar - Pedro is half Spanish and half German. Apparently his grandfather, who lived near Bamburg in rived safely at the next one. I got a call on the day they were getting the ferry to Spain. Their Germany and produced white wine, went over to somewhere near Barcelona and asked the plan had been to get the ferry to Santander, leaving on the Sunday at 15.45 arriving in San - Mayor of the village if he could import his white wine and export their red wine. The mayor tander on Monday at 12.15. Peter asked me if I wanted the good news or the bad news. said yes, but only if you marry my 17 year old daughter. That was Pedro’s grandma and the rest, as they say, is history – they got married and went to live in Bamburg. Obviously this is a very The good news was that they had arrived in Portsmouth safely. The bad news was that the potted history of events and Pedro’s family history. ferry was going from Plymouth!!!!!! Pedro had assumed that the ferry was leaving from there as that is where we usually go from. He tried to blame me and I was on the floor, on my back Pedro was in the hotel business all of his working life and was very suited to it – the Spanish in laughing, with tears streaming down my face, I told him that he had had the paper work for him bought out his charming, welcoming, courteous, proud, enthusiastic, honest and noble weeks and had been looking at it every day for all of those weeks in great detail and should side. The German in him bought out his hard working, efficient, disciplined traditional, well or - have realised where the ferry was going from and I WAS NOT TAKING THE BLAME FOR THIS ganised and punctual side. Brilliant traits for a general manager and then operations director ONE!. of a hotel group (a bloody nightmare to live with though!) Anyway they got there eventually. They wouldn’t have got to Plymouth in time so they had to I am sure that you are all sick to the back teeth of hearing about Jacko and my trials and tribula - get a ferry from Portsmouth later than night about 10 pm which was going to Roscoff and then tions with him and Pedro, my “big man”, has actually MADE A MISTAKE which I felt I had to the ferry from Roscoff to Bilbao but they didn’t get until the Tuesday morning. I had to cancel share with you and give you a break from my “little man”! the first hotel as they would still be on the ferry on their “mini cruise!”

Pedro is very traditional in many ways – you know - he thinks reverse parking is done better by I did feel a bit sorry for him but have pointed out since, at every available opportunity that he men and ironing by women. He retired (for the third and final time!) a couple of years ago and made a mistake – how can one so perfect make a mistake? Anytime he tries to tell me how to how he has changed! He is now a house husband and does all the cleaning, laundry, food do something, that I have made a mistake etc I just say the one word – “Plymouth.” shopping and irons his own clothes! He is amazing. Everybody should have a Pedro in their life. (Before you ask he is NOT for hire!). Thank goodness Eddie is laid back and saw the funny side and it didn’t spoil their holiday. It made my day, week, month, year!!!!!!!!!!! He will be 70 in October so “an old dog can learn new tricks!” When he isn’t looking after Jack and I, the house and our dog, Daisy, he likes nothing better than to go out on his motorbike Pedro, Ti amo siempre mi cielo! (BMW F 800GT) Fran Eccles-Bech We used to have a Morgan that we went on holidays in, touring around Europe. We had a plus Chief Executive 4 and then a plus 8 and probably did four or five years of holidays. I loved it, as did Peds but he did say that it was quite an expensive thing to have when we could only really use it once or twice a year and the rest of the time it was either being polished to within an inch of its life by Pedro or sitting in the garage. Monthly Competition He thought it would be a good idea for both of us to learn to ride a motorbike and we could then have one each and go on holiday on them. To cut a very long story short we did Verdure Floral Design – Your chance to win a bouquet both learn and both passed our tests (Pedro very quickly, me after about 87 lessons and four retakes of the test. So much of flowers worth up to £100!! so that when I went for my last test and went to tell the ex - aminer my name he said “Fran I have seen you so many times you are on my Christmas card list!) Award Winning Florists

To cut another long story short we did both get a motorbike Hello and a very warm welcome to Verdure, where but my bum looked FAR TOO BIG in the leathers and I really flowers are designed around you. couldn’t get all my stuff into two small paniers and a top box so didn’t think that I would use it for holidays! Welcome to originality, fresh thinking and even fresher In the end we sold both of them and bought the one we flowers. Pedro and his “baby”! have now. I do ride on it occasionally but Pedro rides it mainly. Welcome also to consistently excellent standards of personal service. He and his brother decided that they would go on a bonding holiday to Spain and France on their bikes in June this year. Pedro started looking into the hotels and routes about 18 months At Verdure we fuse style and flair then hand craft quality flowers into beautiful flo - ago and spent hours (and I mean HOURS) poring over maps of Spain and France. He then ral designs, tailoring them to your needs and delivering at times to suit you. moved onto hotels throughout these two countries after which every ferry route from England to France and Spain was checked. He then wrote out, in long hand, the route they would take and where they would stop and on which day. I then had to find hotels in these areas and Our dedicated team of florists are committed to their profession, love to innovate book them. He then re-wrote the long hand list, adding the list of the hotels, the address and and enjoy pushing the boundaries of floral design. post code, phone number and room booking reference. He then moved onto the ferry. I was drafted in to make the ferry booking. I duly looked up the web site, put in the dates for We're delighted to have won several prestigious medals at consecutive RHS Tat - Portsmouth to Santander but it wasn’t available. I went through all the other options with him ton Park Flower Shows from 2010 to 2013 and have most recently been awarded on the days before and after the chosen one. He decided on a date and I duly booked the ferry. the RHS Gold medal at this year’s Tatton Park Flower Show. This was then added to the long hand list (“tour bible”). Verdure: Fresh, Flourishing, Green and Luscious The bookings for the hotels and ferries were printed off and he put them all in order in a folder which he read with great interest every night for WEEKS before the event. It could have been his specialist subject on mastermind. He knew everything about each hotel, the mileage be - tween each hotel, how long it would take them to get there, where they would stop for coffee, To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize simply answer the following question: lunch, the latitude and longitude, whether it had a car park, what time the bar shut – you get the picture. Q: At which flower shoe did Verdure win the RHS gold medal? The packing of the bike took a couple of weeks as things were put on the pile, taken off the and send to [email protected] no later than 11th September 2014 pile, put back on again, rolled, wrapped in plastic and put into the top box and panniers. I could have done a rubix cube quicker. Anyway the big day arrives. He is setting off to go to The winner of the Spa 303 competition was Emma Nawaz of Blackstone Solicitors Bristol to meet Eddie (Eduardo the little brother) armed with his hand written list, in triplicate – one for Eddie, one for him as tour leader and one in case they loose the other two, everything 34 Classified Classified Directory

Situations Wanted Shareholder Disputes Locums Expert Witnesses CEDR Mediation

Mark Mattison, a Mediator Senior Residential Property Solicitor with 23 years Commercial Property Locum Solicitor available. Computer lit - based in South Manchester is Solicitor experience in such matters seeks position erate. Recent experience available for commercial available on an Agency basis (full time or part time). includes a year’s Commercial to assist firms who wish to mediations and for training on Over 30 years coveyancing Property Locum work for a lead - all forms of ADR. experience keep clients in-house. ing commercial practice. Phone Please contact by email Paul Bryson at 01457 763340 or (29 years as a sole practitioner) 07831 302797 Anywhere in the Greater [email protected] e-mail [email protected] Manchester area. or telephone/fax: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 0161 445 1850 Senior residential and www.markmattison.co.uk or telephone David on commercial property Solicitor 07896 617287 with over 4 years continuous Locum experience offers you cost GET YOUR BUSINESS effective solutions for holiday NOTICED maternity and sickness cover .No Agency fees to pay. Please contact Martin Libman on 0161 To advertise in the 485 1240 or 07939 508543. Messenger please call

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Call: 01392 423607 WHY PAY AGENCY FEES? Senior Residential Property Solicitor with over 30 years coveyancing experience (29 years as a sole practitioner) available Easedale is a delightful rural retreat set in several acres of wooded hillside grounds for holidays, maternity and which are graced with the presence of many different varieties of birds, badgers, To place an advertisement in deer and red squirrels - one in particular who regularly visits the tree right outside sickness cover. Reasonable rates. the front door! If I can help, please telephone The Messenger please David on 07896 617287 (or email There are some well-known walks from the door including Alcock Tarn, Loughrigg, Fairfield and the Rydal Round. Grasmere village is only a short walk down the hill, [email protected]) where you will find a wealth of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs and the famous call Julia Baskerville on further details and availability. Gingerbread shop. Dove Cottage and Grasmere lake are also only a short walk away. 01253 829431 DUAL QUALIFIED , very experi - Accommodation: Front door entrance into hallway with space for coats and boots. enced criminal specialist advo - Door leading off to the sitting room/dining room/bedroom (TV/DVD/CD/Ipod cate with higher rights. Crime docking station), which has high ceilings, period cornicing and large sash win - work and Crown Court work. dows with lovely views towards Grasmere lake and Silver Howe beyond. Further Very resonable rates, short term doors lead off the hallway to the shower room with corner shower, basin and wc, and also to the well equipped kitchen in a modern shaker style. or email locum contract considered. Please contact Christine on Available for short breaks Friday to Monday, Monday to Friday or week long book - ings in October, November & December 2012 and January – March 2013 from as 01772 741816 or 07967 530138 [email protected] little as £200 To check availability please email [email protected] or call 07810 793649 Notary Public

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Contact us.... Advertising enquires THE MANCHESTER LAW SOCIETY [email protected] 64 Bridge Street, Manchester M3 3BN www.baskerville-publications.co.uu Tel: 0161 831 7337 Fax: 0161 839 2631 www.manchesterlawsociety.org.uk All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part without written permission from the Publisher and Manches - Editor: Fran Eccles-Bech ter Law Society is not permitted. Photographic material and manuscripts are supplied at owners risk, neither the E-mail: [email protected] company not its agents accept any liability for loss or damage.

Publisher: Julia Baskerville Publications The Society welcomes articles and letters from members on any topic and items should be sent to the above ad - 25 Southworth Way, College Farm, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire FY5 2WW dress Tel/Fax: 01253 829431 The views and opinions expressed in the Manchester Messenger are those of the individual contributors and not E-mail: [email protected] of the Manchester Law Society