Barristers

Timothy Becker

Tim’s practice is predominantly in the areas of Chancery, Company and Commercial Law and can be broken down into the following areas. Insolvency Practice This includes all areas of corporate and individual insolvency related litigation Corporate: Liquidations (voluntary and compulsory) including injunctions to restrain presentation and/or advertisement; Contentious Administration and Receivership claims (Pre Enterprise Act), actions against Receivers; contested costs issues arising from Petitions Personal: Statutory demand hearings, bankruptcy proceedings, applications to restrain OR advertising Petition, contested IVA hearings, breaches of Insolvency Act related to the actions of the bankrupt, litigation between bankrupt and trustees, matrimonial finance and bankruptcy, jurisdiction issues, contempt proceedings concerning bankrupts, costs issues Property Practice Landlord and Tenant (Residential and Commercial), Mortgage related litigation Proprietary estoppel and Constructive trusts claims Co-ownership of property, Actions for account in co-ownership claims Rectification of Land Registry, Boundary disputes. Conveyancing related litigation including professional negligence claims against solicitors and surveyors Inheritance Act claims. Probate related claims (including jurisdictional intestacy claims) Tracing. Company and Commercial Practice All aspects of company law particularly shareholder claims, boardroom disputes and Company Directors Disqualification actions. All levels of contractual disputes including guarantees and UCTA defences, claims for misrepresentation and fraud, joint ventures, credit hire (Accident Exchange preferred counsel), equine disputes Matrimonial Finance Practice Particular interest in high net worth Matrimonial Finance claims with Corporate or insolvency related claims or trusts (on or off shore). He acted for the late Keith Floyd. Tim retains an interest in Private law actions under the Children Act 1989. Professional Negligence Practice Tim has acted in claims against Solicitors, Barristers Surveyors, Stockbrokers Accountants, and Lloyds Members Agents. General Tortious Practice Negligence and other torts including Wrongful Interference with Goods. Direct Public Access (Directly/Intermediaries) Timothy Becker was one of the first members of the Bar to embrace the various opportunities that Direct Access instructions provide. 10 years on he is regarded as one of the leaders of the Public Access Bar. He regularly appears in the Court of Appeal and the High Court in direct access cases. He clients come from as far a field as Dubai, Morrocco, Portugal, Czech Republic, India, USA and Australia. He often is called upon by solicitors to provide direct access representation in situations of potential conflict of interest Appointments Barrister member (and standing Counsel )Bar Standards Board Qualifications Committee since 2009 Barrister member Ministry of Justice. Family Proceedings Rules Committee since 2009 Vice Chairman Public Access Bar Association Middle Temple Hall Committee. Middle Temple Advocacy and Mooting Judge Education Shrewsbury School Choral Scholar Kings College London University and Guildhall School of Music BA in Biblical Studies with Greek & Hebrew. AKC Diploma Westminster University. Graduate Diploma in Law (incl tax and Company law) Inns of Court School of Law Interests Professional opera and concert singer Prospective Aldermanic Candidate-City of London. Yacht racing Skiing Rowing

Dirk van Heck

Dirk’s practice covers the full range of commercial, business, property and employment law. He also has particular experience of cross-border disputes and cases with an offshore aspect as well as privacy law and data protection. Having previously worked for a leading international law firm overseas, Dirk was well placed to gain authorisation to conduct litigation when this became available to self-employed barristers in 2014. He has been running cases ever since, whilst continuing to undertake regular Direct Access work and to accept instructions from solicitors. As a trained mediation advocate with considerable experience, Dirk is as comfortable with alternative dispute resolution as he is fighting cases through the courts. AREAS OF PRACTICE Commercial Contract law, banking and financial services, consumer, IT law, and construction disputes. Business Company law, partnerships, joint ventures, fraud and asset recovery, insolvency, professional negligence, cross-jurisdictional disputes and those with an offshore element and employment law. Property Landlord and tenant disputes (commercial and residential), neighbour disputes and rights of way, service charge disputes, lease extensions, cohabitation and trusts of land, wills and probate. Privacy Law and Data Protection Breach of confidence, misuse of private information, harassment, anonymity orders and the GDPR. ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL RECORD MA (Cambridge University) – First Class Postgraduate Diploma in Law Jules Thorn Scholar & Astbury Scholar of the Middle Temple Completed the Keble College International Advanced Advocacy Course Completed Bar Council Mediation Advocacy training Called to the Bar of England & Wales (2001) Called to the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (British Virgin Islands) (2009) Qualified to accept instructions under the Public Direct Access Scheme (2008) Authorised to conduct litigation (2014) TESTIMONIALS “Dirk acted for me on a complicated trust of land case and successfully won the case for me due to his in-depth knowledge and professional capability. He is also extremely personable and totally dedicated to his work.” – Alison Middleton, homeowner. “My company recently had the privilege of being represented by Dirk in a county court action. He showed a great ability to cut through the issues and focus on the facts. Calm and eloquent, he quickly exposed the smokescreens and inconsistencies put up by the defence and resoundingly won us the day. I would have no hesitation recommending Dirk as an excellent commercial barrister and advocate.” – Anthony Dallison, CEO, Fern Marketing Ltd. “Dear Dirk, I just want to thank you for your assistance in our recent employment tribunal. We were all grateful for your professional yet charming manner throughout the proceedings. You made us feel as though you had a genuine interest in our case and calmly guided us through our first such tribunal, reducing the stress levels by some measure. We felt that you were a ‘safe pair of hands’, and the icing on the cake at the end of it all was that we won! I will not hesitate to recommend colleagues to you for advice and assistance…” – Colin Farmer FCA, Partner, Alliotts Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors.

Lewis Perry

Family Law Lewis undertakes all areas of family law including Child Arrangement Orders. Employment Law Lewis offers a range of specialist advice across the employment law spectrum including; Unfair Dismissal / All forms of discrimination; Disability, Race, Sex, Age, Sexual Orientation and Religious / Equal Pay / Industrial Action / Executive Contracts and Wrongful Dismissal / Restrictive Covenants, Confidential Information and Garden Leave / Transfer of Undertakings / Whistleblowing / Injunctions / Investigations Civil Litigation Lewis has a very busy practice in county courts across the country dealing with claims in relation to personal injury, RTAs, appeals, judicial reviews, detailed assessments, disposals, trials and interim applications. Licensing Lewis is instructed nationally for those who require specialist licensing advice for premises licenses, reviews of licences and include pub, nightclub and hotel owners, casinos, betting shops, amusement arcades and involve a range of activities including bingo, lotteries, on-line gambling and other competitions. Regulatory Work Lewis has built a very successful rural, agricultural, countryside and equine practice and is widely acknowledged in the shooting community and provides his specialist advice and guidance to many rural organisations and members including BASC, CPSA, Countryside Alliance, the NGO, NFU, CLA and the British Horse Society. Property Law Mr. Perry has experience in across the entire area of property law including both commercial and residential issues related to property, tenants and landlords, involving contracts for sale and purchase of land, funding of purchases, mortgages and easements. Mr. Perry deals with of all types of residential and commercial landlord and tenant matters and contractual disputes at all stages of litigation from pre-action costs to enforcement.

Farah Ramzan

Family and Civil Law Farah has developed a thriving practice in all areas of family and civil law including Child Arrangement Orders. Farah advises and represents clients in ancillary relief matters Her approachable manner and yet robust and practical style has transferred well to the civil arena where she is regularly instructed in fast and multi-track claims, personal injury matters, financial disputes and possession hearings. As these matters are heard in private, we cannot comment on specific cases but to say that Farah is extremely competent to deal with all Family and Civil matters. Criminal Law Farah has extensive experience in a broad range of criminal work from straightforward theft and public order offences right through to serious crime that includes kidnapping, robbery, sexual offences, violent crime, drugs conspiracies and fraud. She is constantly instructed as a result of her proficiency and her firm yet personable approach. She has experience in representing a diverse range of clients that include vulnerable young defendants, adults and individuals suffering from mental illness. Accompanied with considerable experience in criminal defence work she has regularly been instructed to prosecute on behalf of the Crown Prosecution Service and other prosecuting authorities that include the DWP, SERCO, G4S and British Transport Police. Immigration, Asylum and Human Rights Law Farah’s practice consists of Immigration, Asylum and Human Rights Law. She has covered areas involving unlawful detention and challenges to decisions to withdraw sponsor licenses from education institutes. She regularly appears before the Tribunal, Administrative Court of Appeal on all areas of immigration. She provides advice, representation and advocacy on national deportation, asylum, entry clearance, applications for leave to remain under the Points Based System. Farah also has experience of judicial review work and drafts grounds for reconsideration to the Tribunal, applying for emergency injunctions and has drafted grounds of appeal for the Court of Appeal.

Haresh Sood

Profile Having qualified as a Solicitor, Solicitor Advocate and Barrister with direct access & conduct of litigation rights (which means Haresh can be approached directly without a solicitor being involved who can also manage the paperwork and correspondence all in one for clients), Haresh has a unique skillset. Consequently, Haresh has very good client skills which he provides using his spoken languages (Spanish, Hindi & Punjabi and intermediate Italian and basic French). Haresh also conducting home visits to assist those with access difficulties. Haresh offers legal services to clients throughout the U.K and to ex-pats in Andalucia (Spain, particularly Sevilla) where he has a base. Haresh’s practise is drawn from his personal and professional experiences as he has a wide understanding of various industries in which he has either worked or continues to work. For example, Haresh has 12 years teaching experience of, English, Modern Foreign Languages and Law. He has also worked in a hospital teaching, and consequently, he has advised many people from the education and medical world and advised many medical professionals such as nurses and doctors. Furthermore, Haresh has extensive experience in the Media world as he has worked as a Journalist for BBC and a Professional Actor in London and performed/written comedy. During these experiences he has advised on performing contracts, censorship, films, defamation and freedom of expression and more . Haresh is also an avid documentary film maker and recently graduated with a distinction in his MA in filmmaking from film school at Sheffield Hallam University learning about the legal issues concerning film companies and film makers. His first debut film received multiple awards around the world called ‘My Nieces Big fat Delhi Wedding’ which with a nationwide red carpet cinema release at Arc Cinemas followed by a global release on Paus.tv. He therefore takes instructions on film law also. Furthermore, Haresh has spent the last two years researching on the legal issues concerning the adult industry and now offers advise to people working/offering services within this industry on a direct access basis. Areas of Law; Employment Law (all areas) & Regulatory law (Medical professionals) Entertainment law (Actors, Filmmakers, Adult Industry, Defamation and more) Civil matters (Mixed, i.e. Education, Appeals, Family (some) etc. Please enquire within International Work: Haresh has conducted placements abroad learning the law on different jurisdictions and international arbitration in Brazil and South Korea on Bar Council missions abroad. Haresh also represents Teachers and education professionals who appear before panels in conduct hearings with the Teachers Regulation Agency. Awareness and Charity work: For 25 years since the age of 17, Haresh and his friends have been involved in a number of Human Rights, Equality and Charity projects and raised more than £10,000 for a variety of causes. Between 2007-2022 one of their projects he continues with is called ‘Give Yourself’, whereby Haresh donates his hair for a wig to be made for children who undergo chemotherapy. Haresh has made 5 donations over the last 15 years. Haresh also reports on local events to hospital patients on Millside Radio based at Kings Mill Hospital. Awards and achievements: Haresh currently sits on the Policy and Editorial Board of Counsel Magazine. He is also a member of the Bar European Group, Employment Law Bar Association and the Criminal Bar Association. In 2001, Haresh was awarded an accolade as Tomorrow’s Lawyer in the Times Newspaper National Student Awards, and in 2002 he was shortlisted in the GG2 diversity and leadership awards. In 2004, Haresh was invited to be part of Her Majesty’s Judging Panel for Unsung Heroes. In 2010, he was recognised in the Law Teacher of the Year Awards by Oxford University Press. Interests: Haresh is an avid runner and swimmer and also enjoys writing and writes legal articles on ‘Lexology;. Haresh has contributed articles on discrimination and equality in magazines such as the Parliamentary Monitor, and his dissertation is archived in the library of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg which covers the subject of Freedom of expression Vs privacy dealing with the Article 8 and 10 clashes of the ECHR. Haresh also writes comedy poetry on his blog called ‘Haso’.

Sana Mushtaq

Sana is a passionate, skilled, tenacious and meticulous advocate. Her initial practice encompassed only criminal law, undertaking both defence and prosecution work. She then moved to family law, having always had equal interest in this field and now exclusively practices in childcare law specialising particularly in private law matters involving domestic and sexual abuse, intractable child arrangements disputes, internal and external relocation applications and injunction proceedings. Sana has developed a firm reputation for her forensic advocacy and sound case preparation. She provides tailored advice, robust representation and works to ensure her clients are placed in the best possible position. She is personable, approachable, quickly able to attune to the needs of her clients and commits to client care. She is often specifically requested by both professional and lay clients. Prior to coming to the Bar, Sana worked as a civil advocate and legal assistant within the housing and family department of councils. Shortly after being called to the Bar, Sana completed an internship at the Islamic Human Rights Commission where she wrote published articles. By way of legal volunteer work, Sana has been a panel list member of the Waltham Forest Youth Offending Team for several years and is a trained volunteer for the National Centre of Domestic Violence.

Ayesha Smart

Ayesha enjoys a mixed practice of Crime, Civil, Commercial Litigation and Regulatory. She has a breadth of experience in defending in criminal cases. She also accepts instructions across a broad range of civil and commercial litigation including contract disputes, bankruptcy proceedings and intellectual property disputes. With her medico-legal background, Ayesha has particular strength in cases involving forensic, healthcare or regulatory issues. Crime Ayesha has extensive experience of a range of hearings in the criminal courts and is equally comfortable prosecuting and defending in both the Magistrates and Crown Courts. Ayesha conducts trials, sentences, ‘Proceeds of Crime Act’ (POCA) hearings, appeals to the Crown Court and appeals to the Court of Appeal, in addition to the usual run of the mill hearings i.e. applications, case management hearings and mentions. Ayesha has experience of handling vulnerable witnesses, conducting youth trials and navigating cases where interpreters are requires. She is known for her ‘to the point’ style of advocacy and is at ease dealing with serious criminal offences or those which are sensitive such as domestic or sexual offences. Civil Ayesha is experienced in acting on behalf of Claimants and Defendants and accepts instructions from both. Ayesha regularly advises clients throughout the various stages of proceedings and is adept at drafting all statements of case and schedules. Ayesha undertakes Small Claims, Fast Track and Multi-Track personal-injury cases involving road traffic accidents, accidents at work, highway accidents, and industrial-disease cases. He is experienced in advising at all stages of proceedings on liability, causation, evidence and quantum, as well as drafting statements of case. Ayesha also deals with cases involving civil fraud which include exaggerated personal injury and damage claims, low-velocity impacts (LVIs), fabricated, staged and/or induced accidents, bogus passengers and phantom witnesses. She has also dealt with cases where a finding of Fundamental Dishonesty has been sought. Ayesha has built up a successful practice in residential and commercial property disputes. She has experience acting on behalf of public landlords, private landlords, freeholders and tenants. In court, Ayesha regularly appears in interlocutory applications, final disposal hearings and case management hearings. Her practice consists of possession claims, unlawful evictions, dilapidation claims, easements, boundary disputes, nuisance and breaches of covenant. She often deals with claims under the Occupiers Liability Acts, the Defective Premises Act and the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act and regularly settles pleadings or advises in respect of such matters. Ayesha advises and represents clients in a full range of civil, commercial and residential landlord & tenant disputes. She is able to assist with company, partnership and shareholder disputes, debt recovery, contractual disputes, and professional negligence

Edward Counsell

Edward Counsell has many years’ experience as an advocate and advisor, practising in crime, family law and selected areas of chancery. His work involves almost daily appearances in forums ranging from local magistrates, through the Crown and Family Courts to the High Court. In the criminal courts, Edward is very experienced, both as prosecutor and defender. He is known for tenacious, but fair, examination of witnesses. He has particular experience in the fields of road traffic offences and domestic violence. In the family court, where he deals mainly with disputes concerning children, Edward brings to cases an approach of trying to resolve issues and find solutions in situations where emotions can often run very high. His general approach is to try to build consensus between parents wherever possible. In this, he adheres to the philosophy of collaborative law. Where this does not succeed, he is quite prepared to bring to the case the same firm examination of witnesses that informs his criminal work. Edward’s chancery work involves disputed wills and claims for family provision under the Inheritance Act. In such cases, he maintains a strong awareness that valuable assets are at stake and that early resolution of matters can be preferable to lengthy and costly litigation. In all his work Edward believes that early and realistic appraisal of a case is essential in the best interest of his clients. To achieve this, he combines an approachable manner with robust analysis and clear advice. Formal Education 1988-1989: Bar Finals ISCL, London 1987- 1988: BCL degree, Oxford University 1984- 1987: BA (Jurisprudence) Oxford University

Jibreel Tramboo

Education BPTC – BPP Law School (Holborn) LLB – Brunel University London Practice Jibreel specialises in Sports Law, Commercial Law and Public Law & Human Rights Law. Sports Law: In Sports Law, Jibreel undertakes all work relating to regulatory, contractual and commercial matters. Jibreel particularly specialises in matters relating to Football. He has advised a Football Club in acquiring a franchise agreement with Juventus Football Club and premium the partnership with Celtic Football Club. He has drafted and settled commercial agreements for various sports clubs which include agency contracts and coach contracts. Jibreel is the Legal Director for the sports company Ultimate Sports Group (USG). Jibreel also undertakes work on other sports matters including disciplinary and anti-doping. Commercial Law In Commercial Law, Jibreel’s practice includes appearing for, and advising, businesses and individuals on all contractual matters from contractual and business-to-business disputes, property disputes and contractual interpretation. He regularly appears in both the High Court and County Courts at all stages of proceedings, from interim relief, pre-action advice through to trials and appeals. He regularly advocates in several multi-day trials inclusive of Fast Track and Multi Track trials. Public Law and Human Rights In Public Law and Human Rights, Jibreel has drafted and appeared at all levels of court, challenging the point of law in respect of administration so as to ensure a fair, just and streamlined execution of administrative law. He regularly drafts grounds for judicial review on points of challenge which is aimed at deciphering and solving issues which are of great public importance. Jibreel has appeared at the First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) including claims presented at the High Court and appeals to the Court of Appeal with complex public and human rights issues. He regularly advocates on the engagement of Article 8 the ECHR. He often appears on matters of immigration for both the Appellant side and the Secretary of State for the Home Department having expertly dealt with all relevant issues on Immigration to which he has provided effective and successful outcomes. Outside from his practice, Jibreel has also undertaken Human Rights work with a UN accredited Non-Governmental Organisation on various human rights situations across the world (including Yemen, Kashmir, Alaska, Palestine). He has attended sessions within the United Nations Human Rights Council (Palais Des Nations, Geneva) and the European Parliament at Bruxelles. He has also assisted in organising round tables and side events in which official members of the UN and EP would regularly attend. Jibreel is also a qualified football coach and is passionate about football. Memberships British Association for Sport and Law Pro Bono Legal Advice Panel Member of Sport Resolutions Law Tutor at BPP Member of LawInSport

Julian Gun Cunningham

Professional Qualifications Lincoln’s Inn advocacy and ethics trainer since 2004 Called to the Bar in 1989 by Lincoln’s Inn Admitted a solicitor in 1988 Law Society’s Finals in 1987 Common Professional Examination in 1986 Practice description Property and Common Law Litigation As a solicitor, I was involved in property and common law litigation. I spent several months working on a constructive trust/tracing claim. I was also involved in acting for solicitors and other professionals in partnership disputes and professional conduct issues. I have developed a practice in solicitors’ negligence claims, partnership disputes and conduct issues. This has branched out into other professions, including accountants, financial advisers, surveyors and clinical professions. I also do solicitors’ costs cases. I continue to be regularly instructed in contract-based litigation. This includes sale of business agreements, shareholders’ agreements, franchises, insurance, banking and construction. I also advise on and draft terms and conditions. Assset Recovery I do asset recovery cases, including tracing and constructive trust claims. This involves a range of remedies from summary judgment on debts to freezing injunctions. I have also been involved in applying for and resisting committal for breach of freezing injunctions. Property Law and Property Disputes Having had a background in property law at Gamlens (including 12 months in the property department), I have regularly been instructed in property litigation, particularly real property disputes over boundaries, easements and adverse possession. I also do landlord and tenant, mortgage and joint ownership of property litigation. Employment Tribunals I am regularly instructed in employment tribunal cases and have taken and resisted appeals in the EAT. These cases usually concern unfair dismissal and/or discrimination. I also advise employers on general employment issues, including equal pay and the Working Time Regulations. I have obtained and resisted injunctive relief on restrictive covenants in an employment context. Publications Sole contributor to Atkins’ Court Forms, Trespass to Goods and Conversion, 2006 Joint contributor to Atkins’ Court Forms, Landlord and Tenant, 2005 (and forthcoming 2009 edition) Author, Delay in Legal Proceedings, Longman, 1994 Lectures & podcasts Lecture on “Liquidated Damages clauses” for CLT conference on Recovery of Financial Losses in Litigation, 1st February 2008 Lecture on “Tactics on Disclosure and Requests for Information” for CLT conference on Evidence, Disclosure and Privilege in Civil and Commercial Disputes, 29th February 2008 “Damages Workshop” for CLT conference on Motor Vehicle Sale and Supply Claims and Disputes, 14th March 2008 Lectures on “Developing a Trial Strategy” and “Handling Live Witnesses” for CLT conference on Aspects of Civil Advocacy on 31st March 2008 Lecture on “Limitation update” for CLT Professional Negligence Update conference to be held on 13th March 2009 Podcast on “Are bank charges unfair?” for CPDcast.com Podcast on “A practical guide to disclosure in litigation” for CPDcast.com Education 1984 to 1986 College of Law, Lancaster Gate 1980 to 1984 University of Edinburgh, Politics MA, class 2i 1979 to 1980 Gap year working and travelling in France, Greece and Israel 1974 to 1979 Sherborne School, Dorset 1969 to 1974 Headfort School, Kells, Co Meath, Republic of Ireland Interests Seido karate, running, sport, history, politics, museums.

Robin Howard

Robin undertakes work in all aspects of business and property. As a CEDR-accredited mediator, Robin looks for pragmatic and cost-effective solutions. At the same time, when the need arises, Robin is a tenacious and effective court room advocate. sales of goods and supplies of services construction claims franchising insurance individual insolvency economic torts restitutionary claims directors’ liabilities shareholders’ remedies corporate insolvency His work Robin accepts work from individuals and companies under public access. Where it is still available he welcomes legal aid instructions. He accepts instructions under Conditional Fee Agreement. Much of his work is advisory and so unreported. His recent cases include a Commercial Court dispute concerning the destruction of stored oats; the “Thakrar litigation”, a five-year-long saga involving fraud, insolvency in almost all forms (bankruptcy, receiverships, administrations) and a multi-million pound property company; anti-competitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry; company fraud centred on horseracing; disputes within motor industry trade associations and franchise groups; complex franchising disputes in the recruitment industry, and claims against solicitors, accountants & surveyors.

Marc Brittain

Marc’s practice covers a broad range of Chancery and commercial litigation and he has substantial experience in both litigation and advisory work. He is also qualified to undertake direct access work and frequently does so. In particular, Marc’s practice covers general contractual disputes, insolvency (both company and individual), company related disputes (including fraudulent/wrongful trading and breach of director’s duties), property and land registration. Furthermore, Marc has developed a practice acting for lenders and in particular short- term bridging lenders and mortgage/civil fraud related disputes. He has also recently advised the British Darts Organisation. Marc has also been a High Court Examiner for the purpose of litigation in the United States of America and has appeared in the Privy Council on appeal from the New Zealand Court of Appeal as well as advising in the Isle of Man on a case involving British litigants and Her Majesty’s Customs and Excise. He has also recently acted for Defendants in a number of complicated ‘land banking’ claims brought in the Chancery Division by the Financial Services Authority. Current work includes: Acting in a number of substantial linked cases proceeding in the High Court involving claims in which the Claimants are suing for the return of money allegedly paid to the Defendant for the purchase of property in Dubai, alleging fraudulent misrepresentation by D. A substantial case proceeding in the High Court in which C, a Kuwaiti, is claiming a right to ‘trace’ money into a property purchased by D in this jurisdiction. A case proceeding in the Chancery Division of the High Court involving the use of alleged ‘confidential information’ obtained from the husband by the wife in which the Husband is seeking to injunct the wife from using the material in Family Proceedings. Marc’s practice covers a broad range of Chancery and commercial litigation and he has substantial experience in both litigation and advisory work. He is also qualified to undertake direct access work and frequently does so. In particular, Marc’s practice covers general contractual disputes, insolvency (both company and individual), company related disputes (including fraudulent/wrongful trading and breach of director’s duties), property and land registration. Furthermore, Marc has developed a practice acting for lenders and in particular short-term bridging lenders and mortgage/civil fraud related disputes. He has also recently advised the British Darts Organisation. Marc has also been a High Court Examiner for the purpose of litigation in the United States of America and has appeared in the Privy Council on appeal from the New Zealand Court of Appeal as well as advising in the Isle of Man on a case involving British litigants and Her Majesty’s Customs and Excise. He has also recently acted for Defendants in a number of complicated ‘land banking’ claims brought in the Chancery Division by the Financial Services Authority.

Paul Newman

Paul is a specialist in building and construction law, property litigation and party wall disputes and regularly accepts instructions on a direct access basis. Paul practised at the Bar in Manchester before joining a firm of construction claims’ consultants, then to a solicitors’ practice, before returning to the Bar in 2007. Construction Law: Paul advises across a broad range of construction disputes, both under standard form contracts and under less formal arrangements. His practice includes matters under The Party Wall Etc. Act 1996. He is experienced in arbitration, adjudication, mediation and Court proceedings. He is an ADR Group accredited mediator (2001), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (1999) and an RIBA accredited adjudicator (1998). He is permitted to undertake public access work (2007) and regularly does so. Property Law Paul’s practice extends to property cases. He advises on and has conduct of claims relating to rights of way, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, trespass, nuisance and boundary disputes. He will accept instructions to appear before HM Land Adjudicator and the LVT. Though Paul’s practice as a mediator is substantially based on construction and property disputes, he has also mediated disputes in other sectors. Languages Fluent French and German with a good working knowledge (including written) of Spanish. Testimonials “We would like to thank you for your valuable contribution you made toward the litigation we were recently exposed to. Your quick grasp … proved a real salve and we are both very grateful.” “It was a pleasure meeting you yesterday and on behalf of this firm and the parties, may we take this opportunity of thanking you for your assistance and perseverance throughout the day.” “Thanks go to you for your invaluable assistance!” Directories “Vast experience and reassuring depth of knowledge.” “Very impressive advocacy skills. Mr Newman dealt with an application to enforce an adjudicators’ decision for us. His advocacy skills were most impressive, and we were granted the enforcement.” Chambers and Partners 2014 Legal 500 2013 “He is very personable and always understands what is required from him” Legal 500 2014 “Very personable and approachable” Legal 500 2015

David Mendes Da Costa

David has practised as a family lawyer and civil barrister since 1980. He has extensive experience at all levels of the family court system, whether initial hearing, trials or appeals. His practice has ranged from financial remedy issues, Inheritance and Family Provision trials to Residence and Contact cases. His area of particular interest is jointly owned property where the shares are in dispute. He has advised in a number of cases involving powers of attorney. He now specialises in work as a direct access barrister and as an accredited litigator. David has a Litigation Extension which means that he can go on the record in the same way as a solicitor. Where possible David likes to offer package deals for litigation. This means quoting a price to act for you throughout your case to its conclusion. If a deal is agreed it can help make sure that you will be able to finish your case. Though he prefers to steer a reasonable and non-contentious course if it is in his client’s interest, David is a fierce fighter when required. Being accredited both as a family and commercial mediator and having considerable experience in civil and commercial work too; David is able bring a wealth of experience and expertise when acting as an advocate and negotiator in civil and commercial mediation. It also enables him to understand and provide the support some clients need in litigation.

Stuart Stevens

Stuart is a defence advocate who regularly conducts serious cases as a leading junior, many of which have regularly attracted national media interest. Notable cases include the Brinks-Matt trial (largest gold heist in British history, money laundering trial) and Daqir (The Euromac Case – for allegedly supplying nuclear triggers to Saddam Hussein). Stuart is also the only English Barrister to appear in the ‘Areios Pagos’ (Supreme Court of Greece) in a successful appeal (explaining “specimen counts” which his client had been acquitted of in London and was then charged with the remainder in Athens, where the concept of specimen counts was not known). As a leading defence junior, he has led in several murder trials but has never had a conviction for murder. His most recent murder case was R v M & Ors at the Central Criminal Court, a Tamil Gangland double murder (double beheading), his client was acquitted on submissions because of flaws exposed in the cell-net evidence. Stuart has worked on several Judicial Review cases. He provides a cost-effective route to seeking a judicial review. Stuart also works with serious family cases. Involving child arrangements & complicated family disputes.

Stephen Harvey KC

For the first 8 years, Stephen had a general common law practice. It developed into a heavyweight criminal practice and, in 1990, he joined the Attorney-General’s Chambers where he spent the following 20 years prosecuting and defending in serious criminal cases of all types Over the past 12 years his practice has expanded into other areas where he has utilised his tactical and forensic skills. He receives instructions from throughout the UK and abroad. In connection with his military and associated work, Stephen has the security clearance (Developed Vetting) necessary for him to become involved in cases involving classified material at the highest level. Stephen has interests in witness familiarisation training and in lecturing upon a variety of legal topics, particularly in relation to the expert witness. Stephen is qualified to accept instructions directly from members of the public and professional clients under the Direct Public Access scheme. He is one of the few members of the public authorised to conduct litigation. Direct Access represents the biggest change in how legal services are delivered for decades with the growing awareness of the ability of the public to go directly to a barrister. Stephen has been rated by both of the two main professional directories: Chambers & Partners states that ‘Stephen is a meticulous and confident performer who is both charming and hardworking’. He is active in a wide range of areas, and has notable specialisations in fraud and copyright theft’. ‘…(he) honed his skills in engineering and financial services before coming to the Bar. He wins acclaim for his charming manner and clear-headedness’. Legal 500 particularly refers to his, ‘…wealth of experience in the cross-examination of experts (in a variety of fields) and (he) has lectured…on the topic of ‘The expert witness’.

Daniel ShenSmith

**Founder of ShenSmith Barristers and ShenSmith Law** **Barrister, Mediator, and Legal Educator** Daniel ShenSmith is a practising **Barrister of England and Wales**, widely recognised for his practical legal insight, clear advocacy, and commitment to improving access to justice. He is also known to a global audience as the **BlackBeltBarrister**, creator of one of the UK’s most popular legal education platforms on YouTube. ### **Professional Background and Qualifications** Daniel holds a **First-Class Honours Bachelor of Laws** and a **Distinction Master of Laws in Legal Practice for Barristers**, having also achieved distinction in the Bar Professional Training Course. He was called to the Bar in **2018** and is a member of the **Honourable Society of the Inner Temple**. In addition to his legal career, Daniel is a **qualified mediator** and brings extensive experience in negotiation and dispute resolution to his practice. His background in business, prior to qualifying at the Bar, informs a pragmatic and commercially aware approach to client matters. ### **Areas of Practice** Daniel’s practice encompasses a broad range of civil and commercial legal work, with particular strengths in: - **Consumer and Contract Law** – advising on disputes, rights, remedies, and enforcement of consumer protections. - **Intellectual Property (IP) and Data Protection** – handling trademark, design, domain, and goodwill disputes with a clear, pragmatic approach. - **Media and Online Law** – addressing issues at the intersection of digital platforms, expression, and legal rights. - **Family Law** – in his early practice Daniel gained experience in matters such as child arrangements, contact disputes, and related procedural applications. - **Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution** – helping parties resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively outside the adversarial arena. Daniel accepts **direct access instructions**, meaning individuals can instruct him without the need for a solicitor, where appropriate. ### **Advocacy and Court Experience** Daniel has appeared in various forums, bringing clarity and disciplined analysis to complex facts and legal questions. His advocacy combines rigorous legal reasoning with practical solutions tailored to the needs of each client. ### **BlackBeltBarrister: Legal Education and Outreach** Alongside his practice, Daniel is the creator of the **BlackBeltBarrister** YouTube channel, designed to make legal concepts accessible to a broad audience. The channel explains everyday legal issues in plain English, helping viewers understand their rights and navigate practical legal situations. Through this platform, Daniel has built a significant online presence and wide reach, reflecting his commitment to demystifying the law and empowering individuals with reliable legal information. ### **Professional Approach** Daniel combines technical legal knowledge with real-world understanding, aiming to deliver **clear analysis, strategic guidance, and effective dispute resolution**. As a mediator, he focuses on amicable and sustainable outcomes where possible, reducing the need for costly litigation. His practice is informed by a belief that the law should be comprehensible and practical, helping clients to navigate disputes with confidence and clarity. Daniel practices from **ShenSmith Law** and is authorised and regulated by the **Bar Standards Board**. He is available for advice, draft work, representation, and mediation services.

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