.... with hire of Laurence Lieberman from DLA Piper. Taylor Wessing LLP has boosted its Banking and Finance litigation team in London with the hire of Laurence Lieberman as a partner specialising in banking and finance disputes, with a particular focus on claims involving the wealth management sector.
Laurence Lieberman was formerly a Senior Associate in DLA Piper's Litigation and Regulatory group, where he acted for Merrill Lynch, UBS and HSBC among others, and spent 9 months on secondment to Merrill's wealth management business. He has significant experience in contentious banking and financial services matters, particularly in the wealth management sector.
Shane Gleghorn, Head of the Banking and Finance Litigation Group at Taylor Wessing, comments: "We are delighted to have recruited Laurence. Given the impact of the credit crunch, it is important that we increase our banking and finance litigation expertise to complement the existing team and our commercial litigation practice. We are greatly looking forward to Laurence joining Taylor Wessing in what is a busy time for the team. There are strong links between Laurence's expertise in wealth management disputes, and the firm's finance and private client practice, as well as substantial opportunity for him to contribute to the continued success of our banking and finance litigation practice."
Laurence Lieberman comments:
"In these turbulent markets, banking and finance clients will continue to turn to Taylor Wessing's banking and finance litigation team to resolve their disputes. I am relishing the prospect of joining the team and contributing to its continuing growth and success."
Laurence will join Taylor Wessing on 24 November 2008.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Denton Wilde Sapte half year results show 6 % revenue growth
Its not all doom and gloom in the legal world! According to their latest press release "Revenue has grown by 6 per cent in the first half of the 2008-09 financial year"
"This is a solid result given the current level of uncertainty in the market," says Chief Executive Howard Morris.
The results from the firm's Middle Eastern network of offices show a particularly strong performance, with revenue growing by 59 per cent.
"Our strengths in a number of practices and high growth markets will be key to our activity levels for the second half of the financial year. Nonetheless, the events of the last few months have shown that huge upheavals can come with surprising speed, and we're taking a measured approach to our expectations for the rest of the year," adds Howard.
"This is a solid result given the current level of uncertainty in the market," says Chief Executive Howard Morris.
The results from the firm's Middle Eastern network of offices show a particularly strong performance, with revenue growing by 59 per cent.
"Our strengths in a number of practices and high growth markets will be key to our activity levels for the second half of the financial year. Nonetheless, the events of the last few months have shown that huge upheavals can come with surprising speed, and we're taking a measured approach to our expectations for the rest of the year," adds Howard.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Has the World gone Mad?
Not quite the world but certainly Nebraska State Senator Ernie Chambers has got to be a few sandwiches short of a picnic … he filed a lawsuit last year seeking a permanent injunction against God who he said made terrorist threats against him and his Omaha constituents!
The judge has thrown out the case against God - as the Almighty doesn't have an official address and legal papers can't be served!
The judge has thrown out the case against God - as the Almighty doesn't have an official address and legal papers can't be served!
Goodness me … read the full article on Yahoo! News
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Kevin Poulter has some tips to make it through the downturn
We have a guest blogger this week - Kevin Poulter, Board Member of the JLD Committee and represents the Division to the Leeds Law Society;
With the “credit crunch” already causing a stir it was only going to be a matter of time before the three R’s – Recession, Redundancy and Retraining – were going to cause the region’s lawyers some problems.
Some of the Leeds “Big Six” are already making redundancy announcements and with the region’s middle tier following suit it might be time to rethink your career path – at least as a precautionary escape route should the fateful Private & Confidential letter land on your desk.
An economic downturn gives firms and lawyers a rare opportunity to sit back and take stock, although this opportunity should not be neglected either.
After the files have been archived, the “to do” list exhausted and the desk tidied, cleaned and polished your thoughts should turn to you and your clients.
Rather than sitting by the phone waiting for it to ring, watching the inbox expecting work to be handed to you, be proactive and keep in touch with your commercial clients who might also be suffering from the downturn.
Certain industries are harder hit than others, but also recover much quicker. If you retain the relationship when times are bad you will be the first on the list when the upturn begins.
For firms, now is the time to invest in your lawyers. “Soft skills” training in presentation skills, handling awkward clients, networking and business development can be undertaken in quieter periods.
These new-found skills can be put to good use in seminars for clients, business networking events and generally when promoting the firm. Cross-selling opportunities should also be focused on, especially those which often go unrecognised when we are all busy and have no time for introductions.
Senior colleagues will remind you that there have been hard times in the past and we always pull through. Others will be clinging onto the traditional belief that being a lawyer is a guaranteed job for life. Unfortunately there is no longer such a thing (the exception to the rule being Posh Spice,s hairdresser).
More and more solicitors are turning their backs on the profession to re-train in trade skills where there is a particular shortage. Others might fancy a quieter life on the continent (or further afield) welcoming guests to their taverna or guesthouse.
It all sounds good, but don’t jump out too soon. For those who sit it out, the downturn can present a number of opportunities……
With the “credit crunch” already causing a stir it was only going to be a matter of time before the three R’s – Recession, Redundancy and Retraining – were going to cause the region’s lawyers some problems.
Some of the Leeds “Big Six” are already making redundancy announcements and with the region’s middle tier following suit it might be time to rethink your career path – at least as a precautionary escape route should the fateful Private & Confidential letter land on your desk.
An economic downturn gives firms and lawyers a rare opportunity to sit back and take stock, although this opportunity should not be neglected either.
After the files have been archived, the “to do” list exhausted and the desk tidied, cleaned and polished your thoughts should turn to you and your clients.
Rather than sitting by the phone waiting for it to ring, watching the inbox expecting work to be handed to you, be proactive and keep in touch with your commercial clients who might also be suffering from the downturn.
Certain industries are harder hit than others, but also recover much quicker. If you retain the relationship when times are bad you will be the first on the list when the upturn begins.
For firms, now is the time to invest in your lawyers. “Soft skills” training in presentation skills, handling awkward clients, networking and business development can be undertaken in quieter periods.
These new-found skills can be put to good use in seminars for clients, business networking events and generally when promoting the firm. Cross-selling opportunities should also be focused on, especially those which often go unrecognised when we are all busy and have no time for introductions.
Senior colleagues will remind you that there have been hard times in the past and we always pull through. Others will be clinging onto the traditional belief that being a lawyer is a guaranteed job for life. Unfortunately there is no longer such a thing (the exception to the rule being Posh Spice,s hairdresser).
More and more solicitors are turning their backs on the profession to re-train in trade skills where there is a particular shortage. Others might fancy a quieter life on the continent (or further afield) welcoming guests to their taverna or guesthouse.
It all sounds good, but don’t jump out too soon. For those who sit it out, the downturn can present a number of opportunities……
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The Yorkshire Lawyer Awards: This Years Winners
Over 300 of the most talented legal professionals, their peers, mentors and supporters were recently wined and dined at the auspicious surroundings of Rudding Park, Harrogate.
The awards, now in their eighth year, have been renowned for offering peers the opportunity to shine a light on thoses who have provided outstanding or innovative services to the Yorkshire legal profession and their clients.
The Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year award went to Neil McLean, of DLA Piper LLP – an eminent lawyer for regeneration and real estate projects and a central figure in the Yorkshire legal community. The Leeds born lawyer was chosen due to his commitment and diligence to the profession and opening new doors for the younger generation.
Jackie Boole from Barker Brooks Media was pleased with the event : “The Yorkshire Lawyer Awards aren’t just a pat on the back, they represent real solidarity and pride amongst the region’s legal professionals."
This Year’s Winners
Lawyer of the Year 2008
Neil McLean, DLA Piper
Presidents’ Award
Bob Heslett, Beachcroft LLP
Law Firm (1 – 30 partners)
Switalski’s Solicitors
Law Firm (31+ partners)
Pinsent Masons
Specialist Law Firm
Ridley and Hall Solicitors
Rising Star Award
Chris Caulfield of Hammonds LLP
Private Client Awards
Julia Rangecroft of McCormicks & Co
Corporate Finance Award
Jonathan Procter of DLA Piper
Real Estate Award
Real Estate Team, Shulmans
Dispute Resolution Award
Contentious Team, Leeds, of Addleshaw Goddard
Enterprise Award
Manuel Bravo Project
The awards, now in their eighth year, have been renowned for offering peers the opportunity to shine a light on thoses who have provided outstanding or innovative services to the Yorkshire legal profession and their clients.
The Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year award went to Neil McLean, of DLA Piper LLP – an eminent lawyer for regeneration and real estate projects and a central figure in the Yorkshire legal community. The Leeds born lawyer was chosen due to his commitment and diligence to the profession and opening new doors for the younger generation.
Jackie Boole from Barker Brooks Media was pleased with the event : “The Yorkshire Lawyer Awards aren’t just a pat on the back, they represent real solidarity and pride amongst the region’s legal professionals."
This Year’s Winners
Lawyer of the Year 2008
Neil McLean, DLA Piper
Presidents’ Award
Bob Heslett, Beachcroft LLP
Law Firm (1 – 30 partners)
Switalski’s Solicitors
Law Firm (31+ partners)
Pinsent Masons
Specialist Law Firm
Ridley and Hall Solicitors
Rising Star Award
Chris Caulfield of Hammonds LLP
Private Client Awards
Julia Rangecroft of McCormicks & Co
Corporate Finance Award
Jonathan Procter of DLA Piper
Real Estate Award
Real Estate Team, Shulmans
Dispute Resolution Award
Contentious Team, Leeds, of Addleshaw Goddard
Enterprise Award
Manuel Bravo Project
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Leading Southern law firm appoints six new recruits
Thomas Eggar LLP, yesterday announced the appointment of Owain Morgan and Lindsay Haig, and trainees Lucy Robinson, Alexa Collis, Hannah Wharmby and Andrew Story to the Newbury office. Each individual joins with an impressive educational background.
Owain Morgan joins the firm following his graduation from Nottingham University with a BA in Politics, achieving a Graduate Diploma in Law and a Distinction for the Legal Practice Course at BPP London. Owain will be working closely with partners Tom Rossiter and Biddy Walker dealing with a wide range of commercial property based work and providing additional corporate support.
Lindsay Haig has been appointed into Thomas Eggar's corporate commercial team in Newbury, where she will be working closely with John Riddick, Leon Arnold, Jo Blazey and Andrew Story. Lindsay studied Business Law LLB at Bournemouth University.
Further recruitment in Newbury includes trainee appointments of Lucy Robinson, who graduated from Cardiff University and received a distinction on the LPC at Cardiff Law School, Alexa Collis, who graduated from Warwick University with a first class degree in Law, Hannah Wharmby, who studied Law and French at Cardiff University with a year spent at the University of Rennes in France and Andrew Story.
Andrew joins the corporate team in Newbury to specialise in mergers and acquisitions and company law. Having trained at Charles Russell in Guildford, Andrew joined Blake Lapthorn Linnell on qualification and moved to Thomas Eggar LLP in September 2008. Andrew graduated with a degree in Law with German Law and Language from the University of East Anglia before passing the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law, London.
Commenting on the appointments, Managing Partner, Tony Edwards, said: "We are delighted to have appointed a set of individuals with such a strong educational background that clearly display drive, capability and a passion for law. Thomas Eggar delivers a high level of service to our clients and I am certain that the new additions to the team will continue to uphold these high standards."
Owain Morgan joins the firm following his graduation from Nottingham University with a BA in Politics, achieving a Graduate Diploma in Law and a Distinction for the Legal Practice Course at BPP London. Owain will be working closely with partners Tom Rossiter and Biddy Walker dealing with a wide range of commercial property based work and providing additional corporate support.
Lindsay Haig has been appointed into Thomas Eggar's corporate commercial team in Newbury, where she will be working closely with John Riddick, Leon Arnold, Jo Blazey and Andrew Story. Lindsay studied Business Law LLB at Bournemouth University.
Further recruitment in Newbury includes trainee appointments of Lucy Robinson, who graduated from Cardiff University and received a distinction on the LPC at Cardiff Law School, Alexa Collis, who graduated from Warwick University with a first class degree in Law, Hannah Wharmby, who studied Law and French at Cardiff University with a year spent at the University of Rennes in France and Andrew Story.
Andrew joins the corporate team in Newbury to specialise in mergers and acquisitions and company law. Having trained at Charles Russell in Guildford, Andrew joined Blake Lapthorn Linnell on qualification and moved to Thomas Eggar LLP in September 2008. Andrew graduated with a degree in Law with German Law and Language from the University of East Anglia before passing the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law, London.
Commenting on the appointments, Managing Partner, Tony Edwards, said: "We are delighted to have appointed a set of individuals with such a strong educational background that clearly display drive, capability and a passion for law. Thomas Eggar delivers a high level of service to our clients and I am certain that the new additions to the team will continue to uphold these high standards."
Interview with Marie Haywood, HR Manager at Ellis Jones Solicitors
We recently interviewed Marie Haywood @ Ellis Jones Solicitors. Here is a snippet of her interview;
"When Ellis Jones were marketing for an H.R Manager their main challenge was to find someone who was wiling to 'do' as well as 'manage'. They had a need for someone flexible who didn't mind getting there hands dirty with the more mundane tasks and muck in where needed but also someone with appropriate management experience and who was strong enough in character to face the more 'managerial' and 'people focused' challenges. I think that my assertiveness coupled with my people management, operational, commercial and operational experience matched their requirements."
Read the Full interview with Marie on SimplyLawJobs/Careers
"When Ellis Jones were marketing for an H.R Manager their main challenge was to find someone who was wiling to 'do' as well as 'manage'. They had a need for someone flexible who didn't mind getting there hands dirty with the more mundane tasks and muck in where needed but also someone with appropriate management experience and who was strong enough in character to face the more 'managerial' and 'people focused' challenges. I think that my assertiveness coupled with my people management, operational, commercial and operational experience matched their requirements."
Read the Full interview with Marie on SimplyLawJobs/Careers
How To Keep Your Job In The Current Credit Crunch
Michelle Jones, Marketing Manager for Simply Law Jobs has a Few Tips!
Fearful of losing your job? In these economic times it is no surprise. With everyone from the Prime Minister to your Legal Assistant is looking worryingly over their shoulders as job security is becoming increasingly important. The cliché is often ‘last in first out’ and in this article I will outline how to make sure you do your best to hold on to your job, regardless of how long you have been in your current position.
The key is making yourself indispensable within your company and we don’t mean by sleeping with your boss!
12 Tips to help secure your Job;
Ø Treat each day as if it was your first – don’t take extra time on your breaks or waste time on facebook, emailing friends or selling/buying things on ebay. Be really positive and up-beat about what you have to do that day and complete everything realistic.
Ø If you have spare capacity at work ask for extra tasks – don’t over commit though as it will make you look like you can’t cope.
Ø Go to your bosses with solutions not problems.
Ø Innovate at work – think of ways to save the firm money and time.
Ø Stay on top of current trends & let your bosses know that you are – maybe do a monthly newsletter addressing current issues in the market.
Ø Update your skills and acquire new ones. Take up the offers of training and even seek out training that will add value to your role and as result, the company’s.
Ø Generate sales leads even if you aren’t in sales – think of friends, family and others in your immediate circle who may work for businesses that could use your services.
Ø Don’t be a clock watcher, in fact make an effort to arrive early and leave later on a regular basis.
Ø Don’t pull any ‘sickies’ – if you are genuinely unwell, go into the office and then be sent home. Make sure any appointments for dentist/doctors are at the least disruptive time to your firm.
Ø Don’t get involved in office politics, gossip or cliques - save your energy for working. Also - keep your own personal problems out of work.
Ø Be professional and well turned out at all time. Don’t roll in with a hang-over or say anything derogatory about your work colleagues (especially the boss). Earn a reputation for being dependable, professional, and cooperative.
Ø Be known - the more people who know you, know your strengths and abilities, know your value to the organization, the less likely you are to be put on that redundancy list.
It is important to maintain your work life balance and not to become a slave to the job. Don’t allow yourself to be exploited by your employer, make sure that you are being rewarded for your efforts. However, if you have any inkling that your company are making cut-backs then put the extra effort in now and it could be your saving grace.
Michelle Jones ©
Fearful of losing your job? In these economic times it is no surprise. With everyone from the Prime Minister to your Legal Assistant is looking worryingly over their shoulders as job security is becoming increasingly important. The cliché is often ‘last in first out’ and in this article I will outline how to make sure you do your best to hold on to your job, regardless of how long you have been in your current position.
The key is making yourself indispensable within your company and we don’t mean by sleeping with your boss!
12 Tips to help secure your Job;
Ø Treat each day as if it was your first – don’t take extra time on your breaks or waste time on facebook, emailing friends or selling/buying things on ebay. Be really positive and up-beat about what you have to do that day and complete everything realistic.
Ø If you have spare capacity at work ask for extra tasks – don’t over commit though as it will make you look like you can’t cope.
Ø Go to your bosses with solutions not problems.
Ø Innovate at work – think of ways to save the firm money and time.
Ø Stay on top of current trends & let your bosses know that you are – maybe do a monthly newsletter addressing current issues in the market.
Ø Update your skills and acquire new ones. Take up the offers of training and even seek out training that will add value to your role and as result, the company’s.
Ø Generate sales leads even if you aren’t in sales – think of friends, family and others in your immediate circle who may work for businesses that could use your services.
Ø Don’t be a clock watcher, in fact make an effort to arrive early and leave later on a regular basis.
Ø Don’t pull any ‘sickies’ – if you are genuinely unwell, go into the office and then be sent home. Make sure any appointments for dentist/doctors are at the least disruptive time to your firm.
Ø Don’t get involved in office politics, gossip or cliques - save your energy for working. Also - keep your own personal problems out of work.
Ø Be professional and well turned out at all time. Don’t roll in with a hang-over or say anything derogatory about your work colleagues (especially the boss). Earn a reputation for being dependable, professional, and cooperative.
Ø Be known - the more people who know you, know your strengths and abilities, know your value to the organization, the less likely you are to be put on that redundancy list.
It is important to maintain your work life balance and not to become a slave to the job. Don’t allow yourself to be exploited by your employer, make sure that you are being rewarded for your efforts. However, if you have any inkling that your company are making cut-backs then put the extra effort in now and it could be your saving grace.
Michelle Jones ©
Monday, October 20, 2008
Legal 500 lists Thomas Eggar as number one
Leading law firm, Thomas Eggar LLP, has achieved a Tier 1 ranking in the Legal 500 listings for its Corporate & Commercial service and Employment service, for the first time. The firm also maintained the top position in Insolvency & Corporate Recovery, Agriculture & Estates and Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate in the South East. The annually produced Legal 500 report ranks law firms by sector and highlights key individuals.
Thomas Eggar was also commended in the sports arena for representing Milan Mandaric on his purchase of a 75% interest in Leicester City FC. Caroline Armitage, partner in Southampton, is recommended as a key individual in the report.
For its Employment division, Thomas Eggar rose to the first tier after the acquisition of Pennington Solicitors LLP’s offices in Newbury, which added four employment practitioners. The expansion of Thomas Eggar LLP into Newbury and Southampton means that Thomas Eggar now has an impressive geographical spread of offices.
The London office maintained its 2007 high positioning in 2008, with the Rail practice area progressing from tier six to tier five. Thomas Eggar was applauded in the rail sector for property related issues in the rail industry, while London partners Guy Clements and Louise Middleton were recommended.
In the Thames Valley, Thomas Eggar achieved tier 2 for the Personal Tax, Trust and Probate sector, with partner Claire Hamilton-Russell recommended for Family law and Partner Tom Rossiter for Real Estate and Commercial Property.
Tony Edwards, Managing Partner at Thomas Eggar comments, "We are delighted to continue to achieve top positions in the Legal 500. This demonstrates that Thomas Eggar's continued growth, ambition and consistently high standards of client service are recognised by our industry".
Has your firm got a reason to be proud with this years legal500 entries?? Let us know,
Thomas Eggar was also commended in the sports arena for representing Milan Mandaric on his purchase of a 75% interest in Leicester City FC. Caroline Armitage, partner in Southampton, is recommended as a key individual in the report.
For its Employment division, Thomas Eggar rose to the first tier after the acquisition of Pennington Solicitors LLP’s offices in Newbury, which added four employment practitioners. The expansion of Thomas Eggar LLP into Newbury and Southampton means that Thomas Eggar now has an impressive geographical spread of offices.
The London office maintained its 2007 high positioning in 2008, with the Rail practice area progressing from tier six to tier five. Thomas Eggar was applauded in the rail sector for property related issues in the rail industry, while London partners Guy Clements and Louise Middleton were recommended.
In the Thames Valley, Thomas Eggar achieved tier 2 for the Personal Tax, Trust and Probate sector, with partner Claire Hamilton-Russell recommended for Family law and Partner Tom Rossiter for Real Estate and Commercial Property.
Tony Edwards, Managing Partner at Thomas Eggar comments, "We are delighted to continue to achieve top positions in the Legal 500. This demonstrates that Thomas Eggar's continued growth, ambition and consistently high standards of client service are recognised by our industry".
Has your firm got a reason to be proud with this years legal500 entries?? Let us know,
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Diana Ross Tribute & Student of the Year {ILEX}
On saturday afternoon I made my way across the severn bridge to the delightful city of Cardiff to attend the ILEX South Wales Branch Annual Ball. The ball was at the Park Plaza Hotel, which I was lucky enough to stay in - big bed, nice pool & so I discovered in the morning, an excellent breakfast!
The ILEX South Wales branch invited many guests including Mark Bishop {ILEX President}, several Senior and Distric Judges, Geraint Williams of The Law Society of Cardiff and the Chairman & Secretary of The Confederation of South Wales Law Societies. The delightful Frances Edwards {Branch Chairman} welcomed us all and ensured the evening went smoothly.
Drinks reception - warm white wine {!), followed by Leek & Potato Soup {what else in wales}, Chicken Supreme & Veg, Chocolate Mousse and Cheese & Biscuits. It was a good spread and no measely portions. We then had the charity raffle followed by the Student Awards.
SimplyLawJobs.com donated the £100 cash prize for the ILEX Level 3 Student of the Year, which was won by Angelina Davies of Bridgend College. Her tutor spoke about Angelina "She is the most outstanding student we have had in the 12 years we've been delivering ILEX. She studied A level law at college and really enjoyed it so decided to take it further. She enrolled with us 2 years ago and her overall results were outstanding. She had 5 Distinctions in the case studies – and only missed Distinction in the Tort and Civil Litigation by 2 marks. She then achieved a Distinction in the final examination – which, considering how horrid a paper it was and only 8 people in England and Wales achieved that, was a fantastic result."
Wow! Well done Angelina - despite her having flu she still attended and put a brave face on throughout the evening.
We all sat back then waiting for Jacky Webbe - Diana Ross tribute act - and I have to say she was really good. Very entertaining and totally engaging. I sloped off to bed after her 1st session and happened to share a lift with her - 'that is some wig' I said & she agreed!
If you are looking for a Law Job in Wales visit Simplylawjobs.com/wales
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
A 3rd of Lawyers are Lardies!!
This article from Roll on Friday was a great source of amusement to me as they report that LIPOBind claim that Lawyers are second only to truckers in a league table of the fattest workers!!
In a survey sponsored by LIPObind - a "natural weight management partner" - a third of male lawyers have waistbands in excess of the national average of 38 inches. A spokesman said that lawyers have "lavish business lunches and nights out. They are also synonymous with driving smart cars and have less time to exercise when holding down such a demanding job".
IT workers came 3rd, Doctors 4th and plumbers 5th. The complete article by the Telegraph can be found here; Truckers and Lawyers top of the Fat Professional list!
In a survey sponsored by LIPObind - a "natural weight management partner" - a third of male lawyers have waistbands in excess of the national average of 38 inches. A spokesman said that lawyers have "lavish business lunches and nights out. They are also synonymous with driving smart cars and have less time to exercise when holding down such a demanding job".
IT workers came 3rd, Doctors 4th and plumbers 5th. The complete article by the Telegraph can be found here; Truckers and Lawyers top of the Fat Professional list!
The 100 most important cases in British Law?
Over at the The Times they have launched a wonderful archive of law reports from the newspapers long established court reporting section. The reports date back as far as 1785 and you can search the archived law reports here. They have every single court report for a 200 year period between 1785–1985; now that’s some database!
In order to highlight the service they have asked Gary Slapper director of The Centre for Law at the Open University to select what he believes to be the 100 most important cases in the archive. Visit the site and see if you agree with his choices.
Visit Simply Law Jobs for a vast number of Lawyer Jobs.
In order to highlight the service they have asked Gary Slapper director of The Centre for Law at the Open University to select what he believes to be the 100 most important cases in the archive. Visit the site and see if you agree with his choices.
Visit Simply Law Jobs for a vast number of Lawyer Jobs.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
We all break the Law everyday - apparently!!
This interesting article in the telegraph last week is worth sharing with you. "Millions of people who declare themselves innocent law abiding citizens actually commit around seven crimes a week". The top 20 crimes we commit;
1. Speeding
2. Talking on a mobile/texting while driving
3. Dropping litter
4. Illegally downloading music
5. Cycling on pavements
6. Eating or drinking while driving
7. Having sex in a public place
8. Parking partly on a pavement
9. Taking drugs
10. Not wearing a seatbelt
11. Having sex under the age of 16
12. Parking on double yellow lines
13. Cycling with lights after dark
14. Not cleaning up dog poo
15. Smoking in a public place
16. Driving through a red light
17. Not having a TV license
18. Not informing the DVLA of a change of address/name
19. Taking a child out of school for a holiday without the head's permission
20. Carry an offensive weapon
Crikey! I think I did two of those this morning before I got to work! One - parking part on a pavement to run & drop my son off at nursery & two - speeding, not much but enough! Oh dear, what about you??
1. Speeding
2. Talking on a mobile/texting while driving
3. Dropping litter
4. Illegally downloading music
5. Cycling on pavements
6. Eating or drinking while driving
7. Having sex in a public place
8. Parking partly on a pavement
9. Taking drugs
10. Not wearing a seatbelt
11. Having sex under the age of 16
12. Parking on double yellow lines
13. Cycling with lights after dark
14. Not cleaning up dog poo
15. Smoking in a public place
16. Driving through a red light
17. Not having a TV license
18. Not informing the DVLA of a change of address/name
19. Taking a child out of school for a holiday without the head's permission
20. Carry an offensive weapon
Crikey! I think I did two of those this morning before I got to work! One - parking part on a pavement to run & drop my son off at nursery & two - speeding, not much but enough! Oh dear, what about you??
Sixth Annual Legal Aid Awards Launched
I receive the Institute of Paralegals regular newsletter and was delighted to read about these awards;
The Legal Aid Practitioners Group are calling for nominations for the sixth Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year (LALY) Awards, which celebrate the work of solicitors and barristers and other legal aid practitionerswho have dedicated their careers to the service of some of the most vulnerable members of society.
LAPG Director Carol Storer said, “The Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards are a chance to honour the practitioners who work so hard on behalf of some of the most vulnerable people in our society. So what better time to honour those who continue to advise people on their rights and represent them to ensure that those rights are meaningful. This is a chance for colleagues and local communities to honour the groups and individuals who continue to provide such an invaluable service. Every year we hear about the hard work, the dedication, the professionalism and the tenacity of the lawyers still carrying out legal aid work to ensure that the vulnerable members of our society have a voice. We look forward to receiving nominations that will as in previous years highlight that commitment.”
Nominations are being sought in nine categories:
Criminal Defence
Family
Legal aid firm/not-for-profit-agency
Young Solicitor
Barrister
Immigration and Asylum
Social and Welfare
Young Barrister
Barrister
Immigration and Asylum
Social and Welfare
Young Barrister
The panel of judges, chaired once again by Cherie Booth QC, will also be making an award for Outstanding Achievement.
Good luck to everyone from the SimplyLawJobs Team!
For Legal Aid Jobs, visit Simply Law Jobs/LegalAid
{Source; http://www.lapg.co.uk/legalaidlawyer.cfm}
Monday, September 22, 2008
High bills for Solicitors on NHS cases
It was recently reported that the NHS bill to pay solicitors acting for patients in compensation claims has more than doubled in four years. The annual bill in England now tops £90m - a 122% increase in four years, despite the fact the number of cases has remained similar. The NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) told the BBC the rise was due to an increase in no win, no fee claims, which has led to some solicitors doubling their rates to £600 an hour.
About half of the cases the NHSLA sees now are brought by solicitors on a no win, no fee basis as opposed to under a fifth in 2000.
(Source: Yahoo News; read the full story)
About half of the cases the NHSLA sees now are brought by solicitors on a no win, no fee basis as opposed to under a fifth in 2000.
(Source: Yahoo News; read the full story)
TLT introduces full flexible benefits scheme
Top 100 law firm TLT is introducing a new flexible benefits scheme in a bid to continue attracting and retaining the best talent in the increasingly competitive national and regional recruitment market. TLT will be one of only ten of the Top 100 UK law firms offering a full flexible benefits plan (source: Vebnet). The launch of the scheme demonstrates the firm's innovativeness as full flexible benefits plans are typically offered by only the very largest of law firms.
The scheme, which launches on 1st October, will give TLT's UK-based staff the opportunity to design their benefits package to meet their own personal lifestyle needs. Staff will be able to 'purchase' additional new benefits and enhance their existing benefits, while benefitting from tax and National Insurance contribution savings. The scheme will also allow staff to 'sell' some of their existing benefits to increase the monetary element of the remuneration package. Staff will be able to review and adjust their benefits package and see its impact through an online 'reward statement'.
TLT staff will be able to choose from a range of benefits including dental insurance, retail vouchers, health screening, private medical insurance, critical illness insurance, life assurance, childcare vouchers, travel insurance and bicycle leasing amongst others. Staff will also have the opportunity to buy and sell annual leave and to enhance some of their benefits to cover their partner and family.
TLT is also offering 'TLTShop', a way of shopping online that gives staff access to corporate discounts at thousands of retailers including well-known high street retailers.
The scheme is being launched following a series of focus groups and a web-based survey of staff across the business which found that 90% of respondents wanted flexibility, choice and responsibility over their benefits package and that over 66% were interested in 'buying' new benefits.
TLT's HR Director, Graham de Guise, says "TLT already has a strong track record of recruitment and retention and this latest offering will further enhance our competitiveness as we become an increasingly national player in our chosen markets. This initiative supports our ambition to be an employer of choice and will help us win the war for talent."
Described by industry commentators as 'the firm to watch', TLT is one of the UK's fastest growing law firms employing approximately 650 staff across its Bristol, London and Piraeus offices. The firm has been recognised in The Sunday Times' Best Companies To Work For report.
For Law Jobs in Bristol, visit Simplylawjobs.com/Bristol
The scheme, which launches on 1st October, will give TLT's UK-based staff the opportunity to design their benefits package to meet their own personal lifestyle needs. Staff will be able to 'purchase' additional new benefits and enhance their existing benefits, while benefitting from tax and National Insurance contribution savings. The scheme will also allow staff to 'sell' some of their existing benefits to increase the monetary element of the remuneration package. Staff will be able to review and adjust their benefits package and see its impact through an online 'reward statement'.
TLT staff will be able to choose from a range of benefits including dental insurance, retail vouchers, health screening, private medical insurance, critical illness insurance, life assurance, childcare vouchers, travel insurance and bicycle leasing amongst others. Staff will also have the opportunity to buy and sell annual leave and to enhance some of their benefits to cover their partner and family.
TLT is also offering 'TLTShop', a way of shopping online that gives staff access to corporate discounts at thousands of retailers including well-known high street retailers.
The scheme is being launched following a series of focus groups and a web-based survey of staff across the business which found that 90% of respondents wanted flexibility, choice and responsibility over their benefits package and that over 66% were interested in 'buying' new benefits.
TLT's HR Director, Graham de Guise, says "TLT already has a strong track record of recruitment and retention and this latest offering will further enhance our competitiveness as we become an increasingly national player in our chosen markets. This initiative supports our ambition to be an employer of choice and will help us win the war for talent."
Described by industry commentators as 'the firm to watch', TLT is one of the UK's fastest growing law firms employing approximately 650 staff across its Bristol, London and Piraeus offices. The firm has been recognised in The Sunday Times' Best Companies To Work For report.
For Law Jobs in Bristol, visit Simplylawjobs.com/Bristol
Monday, September 15, 2008
As DOG is my witness!!
Shouldn’t that be God!! No, in this mad French case a DOG has been called as a witness in a murder trial, and the dog is called Scooby!!! Has the judge gone barking mad? A 59-year old woman was found hanging from the ceiling in her Paris flat and whilst the police believe it is a clean cut suicide case, her family say that someone murdered her.
The only witness though, is Scooby. One lawyer said “Human evidence is unreliable enough, let alone canine evidence. Besides, the victim died two and half years ago, which is seventeen dog years! How is the animal supposed to remember that far back?"
For the Full Story: What do you think?
The only witness though, is Scooby. One lawyer said “Human evidence is unreliable enough, let alone canine evidence. Besides, the victim died two and half years ago, which is seventeen dog years! How is the animal supposed to remember that far back?"
For the Full Story: What do you think?
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
TLT welcomes new Trainees
Top 100 law firm TLT welcomes five new trainee solicitors to the firm's training scheme. Claire Kershaw, Robert Dyson, Ashley Borthwick, Chris Diamond and Iain Taylor start their two-year training contract at the firm this week.
Each of the new trainees will spend six months in a different 'seat' or specialist team, getting first hand experience of law in action and advising and dealing with TLT's clients under expert supervision. They will benefit from a designated trainee supervisor, regular partner contact and comprehensive technical and skills training. The training is broad-ranging and includes professional skills courses and the firm's T to 2 scheme, where lawyers from trainees through to two year post-qualification receive training on key practice areas, which can involve direct contact with referrers and key clients. Trainees are also actively encouraged to participate in the firm's environmental and charity work.
This year's trainees will initially join TLT's banking and financial services litigation, corporate finance and commercial property teams at both the firm's head office in Bristol and also its growing London office. TLT has 21 trainee solicitors participating in the training scheme, which is heavily oversubscribed and enjoys a very high retention rate. As the firm has grown it has recruited an increasing number of trainees and this is set to continue across both of the firm's offices in its March and September intakes.
TLT's Training Principal and Partner Maria Connolly says, "Career development at TLT is about giving people the support they need to achieve their professional and personal goals. We recruit the best people and invest heavily in them to ensure that they are able to fulfil their full potential. I'm delighted to welcome Claire, Robert, Ashley, Chris and Iain to TLT."
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Law Firm Podcasts
We found this recent blog post regarding Law Firms and those that offer legal updates via podcasts. There is a list of good firms that do.
The blog poster was impressed with firm Maclay, Murray and Spens LLP - who have several specialist podasts, and with Burness, the first Scottish firm to offer such a service. Have a look at the list & links, which we hope you find useful.
The blog poster was impressed with firm Maclay, Murray and Spens LLP - who have several specialist podasts, and with Burness, the first Scottish firm to offer such a service. Have a look at the list & links, which we hope you find useful.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Norton Rose announces new contentious Intellectual Property partner in London
Norton Rose LLP, the international legal practice, recently announced that Jonathan Ball is to join the practice in London as a contentious Intellectual Property partner. Jonathan joins from DMH Stallard, where he is a partner in dispute resolution specialising in intellectual property and technology. Previously, Jonathan was a senior associate in the Intellectual Property department at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer until June 2007.
Jonathan is a specialist in the field of contentious intellectual property with extensive experience in patent litigation. His experience covers patent cases in the pharmaceuticals, engineering and electronics sectors, as well as other intellectual property litigation including trademarks, copyright, design and confidential information.
Following Jonathan’s appointment there will be 19 dispute resolution partners and 46 associates in London.
For Patent Law Jobs visit Simplylawjobs.com/PatentLaw and for Litigation Solicitor roles visit Simplylawjobs.com/LitigationSolicitor
Jonathan is a specialist in the field of contentious intellectual property with extensive experience in patent litigation. His experience covers patent cases in the pharmaceuticals, engineering and electronics sectors, as well as other intellectual property litigation including trademarks, copyright, design and confidential information.
Following Jonathan’s appointment there will be 19 dispute resolution partners and 46 associates in London.
For Patent Law Jobs visit Simplylawjobs.com/PatentLaw and for Litigation Solicitor roles visit Simplylawjobs.com/LitigationSolicitor
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