The former Freshfields partner reflects on his return to the Bar
Raj Parker has recently joined Matrix as an associate member.
What was your route into the profession?
My route back to the Bar has been a little unconventional. I first qualified as a barrister and then have spent the last 30 odd years as a solicitor at Freshfields, and now have returned to practice at the Bar!
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Two challenges stick out. First representing the Football Association as a young lawyer in the aftermath of Hillsborough. Second as part of a large Freshfields team rescuing the Lloyd's insurance market from collapse.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
May I say the late great Tom Bingham- a real hero of mine. One of our best ever judges.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I'd love to be a writer of fiction, but cannot say whether anyone would be interested in what I wrote!
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
It would have to be Rumpole for his dry wit and character!
What change would you make to the profession?
I would stop charging by the hour and find better ways of reflecting value and contribution as a lawyer.
How do you relax?
Walking my dogs, watching football, theatre and my garden.
