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15 September 2025
Categories: Movers & Shakers , Profession
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B P Collins—Steven Smith

Partner appointed deputy district judge on South Eastern Circuit

Steven Smith, partner at B P Collins LLP, has been appointed by the Lady Chief Justice, The Right Honourable the Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill, to sit as a deputy district judge on the South Eastern Circuit. His appointment follows a rigorous selection process requiring candidates to demonstrate their legal expertise and judicial competencies.

Steven will serve around 30 days a year in his judicial role while continuing his practice at B P Collins, where he specialises in commercial and construction disputes. Reflecting on the appointment, he said: ‘The work of a Deputy District Judge is incredibly varied… I’m both delighted and honoured to have been appointed.’

He also acknowledged the firm’s support throughout the process, adding: ‘B P Collins has been hugely supportive of my application and this appointment would not be possible without their backing.’ His dual role is expected to bring valuable insight to both his personal practice and the wider dispute resolution team.

Steven’s appointment highlights B P Collins’ commitment to professional development and judicial engagement, reinforcing its reputation for excellence in legal practice.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Haynes Boone—Jeremy Cross

Haynes Boone—Jeremy Cross

Firm strengthens global fund finance practice with London partner hire.

DWF—Stephen Webb

DWF—Stephen Webb

Partner and head of national planning team appointed

mfg Solicitors—Nick Little

mfg Solicitors—Nick Little

Corporate team expands in Birmingham with partner hire

NEWS
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The High Court’s refusal to recognise a prolific sperm donor as a child’s legal parent has highlighted the risks of informal conception arrangements, according to Liam Hurren, associate at Kingsley Napley, in NLJ this week
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A simple phrase like ‘subject to references’ may not protect employers as much as they think. Writing in NLJ this week, Ian Smith, barrister and emeritus professor of employment law at UEA, analyses recent employment cases showing how conditional job offers can still create binding contracts
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