A firm opening in the City this week combines the expertise of solicitors and barristers under one roof.
Barrister turned solicitor-advocate Michael Jones, formerly of 1 Essex Court, has created Jones Warner with two solicitors.
He says that instead of joining a firm as an employed barrister, he is using his experience of 20 years at the Bar to set up a new practice.
He says: “We were brainstorming about the ideal law firm and the idea took wings.
“We are very excited at setting up a firm from scratch which encompasses our ideals and experience of how best to serve clients.”
Jones set up the practice with other named partner David Warner, a former solicitor at Lovell White Durrant and they are joined by former Baker & McKenzie associate, Jennie Wade, who will also be a partner of the firm.
Jones Warner will advise primarily on employment-related issues in the financial and commercial sectors. Clients will be drawn from the major corporations in the City.
A source at a leading employment firm says: “From a client's perspective, this is a fabulous idea, particularly as the client can have direct access to a specialist barrister. This may be the way forward for firms.”
Under Law Society rules, solicitors cannot enter into partnership with barristers. However, Jones acquired solicitor status in 1993.
A Law Society spokesman described the new firm as “a bit of a first”.
Shulmans wins employee ruling
Leeds-based Shulmans has won a ground-breaking emp-loyment law case in the Court of Appeal.As a result of the win, the controlling shareholder of a company is now recognised for the first time as an employee.The ruling means controlling shareholders are now entitled to the same rights as employees.The Court of Appeal ruled in favour of […]