Exchange Chambers opens in Leeds as local set for local firms

Director of chambers Tom Handley said the strategic move was aimed at encouraging local firms to use local barristers.

“There’s no need for work to go to London when the regional bar is so strong and can provide such an outstanding service,” he added.

The news comes just weeks after the set reported a 15.4 per cent rise in turnover, from £18.8m to £21.7m at the 2009-10 year-end.

The Manchester base contributed £10m of the set’s turnover. “We’re ­aiming for similar growth in Leeds,” Handley ­commented.

The set has taken 6,000sq ft of office space in the city centre and is ­expected to open within the next month.

Joint head of chambers Bill Braithwaite QC said: “Our Leeds chambers has huge potential and we’re looking to attract outstanding barristers across all practice areas straight away.

“We’ll also be working closely with local solicitors to provide them with the very best seminars, training opportunities and value-added services.”