Firm makes history by branching out alone (From The Northern Echo)

Firm makes history by branching out alone

9:22am Tuesday 7th September 2010 in

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A NORTH-EAST law firm has made legal history by launching the first barrister and solicitor-run criminal law practice in the UK.

The move comes after changes to the Legal Services Act 2007 allowed barristers and solicitors to set up in business together for the first time.

Experts at business advisor UNW negotiated the financing deal to allow Kyle’s Legal Practice Ltd, which will work on all aspects of criminal and prison law, to open seven offices across the region, creating 20 jobs.

Before the change in legislation, barristers worked as self-employed practitioners within chambers and were prohibited from incorporating or joining together as partners.

Now barristers Brian Mark and Nick Peacock, who have 42 years’ experience between them, and solicitor John Turner have teamed up and become co-directors of Kyle’s.

UNW partner Alan Suggett helped the firm with its business plan, financial projections and negotiating a funding package with Lloyds TSB.

Mr Mark said: “It’s fantastic news for us that the old restrictions preventing barristers forming partnerships with solicitors have been lifted for the first time in our history.

“We will specialise in criminal law in the North-East, prison law nationally and also environmental law, which is Nick’s real area of interest.

“UNW really held our hand throughout and had far more clout with the banks than we did.

They provided us with help and advice to build on the plans that we had. They were able to do that in a financial sense, but they also breathed life into the project and made it happen.

“This has developed into a longterm relationship for us because not only did they help us with the initial set-up, but they are now doing our accounting and pay roll so they will be on hand as the business expands.”

Kyle’s has its head office in Howard Street, North Shields, and employs ten associate solicitors across its six other offices, including Peterlee and Middlesbrough.

Mr Suggett said: “What’s innovative about this business is that they have responded to industry changes in a way others haven’t and much more quickly.

“Barristers are wonderful at analysing issues, presenting facts in the most favourable way, and formulating strong arguments.

“So, as well as traditional legal services, Kyle’s will also offer presentation skills training for businesses and, if appropriate, can present within a commercial setting on a company’s behalf.

“I was delighted that the directors chose UNW to work with them. Despite what is currently being said about banks being reluctant to lend to new businesses, we had real enthusiasm from a couple of banks, which is encouraging for other business owners with innovative ideas.”