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The new President of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL) pays tribute to Atticus Finch, Sir Rupert Jackson & Blackburn Rovers FC
What was your route into the profession?
There are no other lawyers in my family and therefore pursuing a legal career was not something I had considered until the University. I am from a family of teachers but there are some similarities in that both professions need to deal with people and solve problems and issues that they face on a daily basis. Both professions are vital to the working of society and genuinely impact on the lives of individuals they deal with.
I trained at a firm (Elliott & Co Manchester) that did corporate/commercial work as well as insurance but soon found that Defendant insurance litigation was to my liking!
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Dealing with the fallout from the administration of the Parabis Group in 2015. Myself and a fellow partner (Damon Burt) led the rest of the partnership through this very difficult professional period. Thankfully all clients were extremely supportive given that the partners and staff stuck together for the greater good of everyone in the firm and all the clients who we worked for. This has led to a stronger collegiate partnership within Plexus Law.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you the most?
Sir Rupert Jackson given his determination and single-minded vision to see through a raft of very unpopular reforms to the civil justice landscape.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
Given my family history then I would be a PE teacher.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird.
Unlike how many lawyers are generally portrayed he is brave, honourable and has the courage of his convictions and respects the rule of law in the face of strong opposition.
What change would you make to the profession?
Greater collaboration between the Claimant and Defendant Solicitors to jointly fight insurance fraud and prevent road traffic accident victims simply being a commodity used in credit hire/credit repair cases for the benefit of Claims Management organisations.
How do you relax?
I have four boys, so any relaxation is minimal! However, as a family we walk in the Yorkshire Dales and holiday regularly in the French Alps where we ski and snowboard. Myself and the boys also regularly visit Ewood Park to watch our beloved Blackburn Rovers FC – it’s a far cry now though from the halcyon days of Premier League Champions in 2005!
