LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION SPECIALIST
I originally worked for a global IT company after completing my Degree in Management, Marketing and Software Engineering at Lancaster University. I worked across a number of industry sectors, focussing on early AI and expert systems, before eventually deciding to re-train as a lawyer. I completed my legal training at York College of Law in 1994 with a commendation and I qualified at Dibb Lupton Broomhead (as then was) in 1996. I’ve always maintained a keen interest in IT, new media and technology and new ways of doing business and I believe that the Legal sector will change radically over the next ten years.
I like variety and challenge and I have resisted the urge to specialise, so I’m comfortable in a number of different legal areas, most notably: contract disputes and breach of contract claims, partnership and shareholder disputes, construction disputes, commercial agents regulations, intellectual property and cohabitation & trusts of land claims. My experience covers most areas of business and contentious law and I’ve worked for a range of clients from sole traders to multi-national companies. I also act for individuals in certain specialist areas such as contract disputes, professional negligence, construction and high value co-habitation claims. I also conduct my own advocacy when I can. I enjoy the unpredictability and challenge of dealing with disputes and I like helping clients resolve their problems.
I worked as a solicitor post-qualification for nearly 20 years at a number of large and medium sized practices in Leeds, namely Dibb Lupton Broomhead, Dension Till and Lee and Priestley, before setting up Legal Studio in 2014.
Whilst I enjoy working in law, I don't like the restrictions placed upon lawyers by most law firms including all the law firms for which I have worked. As a conscientious solicitor, I always give my best for my clients and I don't want to work in an environment where management think it essential to control every aspect of my life. I want to work reasonable hours to spend time with my family and I want to see the upside from working hard and being successful. I think many lawyers feel the same way and Legal Studio is created for lawyers like that.
Legal Studio is a great place to work; it’s fun, challenging, friendly and supportive. We work hard for our clients, we work when we want to (and for who we want to work for) and we have fun. We also get paid properly for the work we do and when the firm benefits, we all benefit.
When I’m not working, I’m fell walking, cooking, skiing and spending time relaxing with family.