The new APIL president reveals a passion for reform
John Spencer, chairman of Spencers Solicitors, took over the presidency of APIL on 1 May.
What was your route into the profession?
I left school at 16 and worked for two years as a commercial trainee at GEC. Whilst working I completed am ONC in Business Studies. I then studied Social Sciences for my BA, and majored on Law and economics. I subsequently completed my Law Society finals at Leeds polytechnic. I was articled at Woodford & Ackroyd in Southampton. My principal was Michael Messent; the best solicitor general litigator I have ever come across. It was a privilege to learn from him. I saw him recently, he is now retired, save some consultancy work.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Establishing Spencers as an excellent specialist claimant PI practice, which remains a work in progress, there is always more we can do! From a standing start we have decided to concentrate on generating our own work about a year before the referral fee ban. This has been one of a number of significant challenges. I work as part of a great Board.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
Lord Denning was always a great inspiration to me. I loved the simplicity of his language and his determination always to do the right thing. As a law student I devoured his books, before graduating to his judgments!
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I would seek to run a business of some description in something which I cared about. I would love to be an artist, but sadly don’t have the talent! These days I seek to do all I can on legal reform. If not doing so from a legal perspective, I would want to be involved in reform from another angle, perhaps a political angle.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Rumpole of the Bailey, now overtaken by Martha in Silk. They both represent a dying breed of theatrical and performing barristers, and are compelling viewing.
What change would you make to the profession?
I would ensure that the Lord Chancellor had to be a lawyer again. I would also seek to make regulation more effective and serve the public and the profession much better. The question begs another: namely where do you begin!
How do you relax?
I enjoy cinema and the theatre, and love exploring London with Susanne, my wife. Running is a great escape for me too.
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