The Barrister Group

Meet The Barrister Group's Head of Tax, Tyroon Win.

Tyroon joined us earlier this year following a busy background as Practice Manager in his previous set. He's highly experienced, lauded by Legal 500 as "the epitome of an excellent clerk", and leads the way for The Barrister Group's specialist Tax Law team.

Get in touch with Tyroon on 0203 1500 001 or at [email protected]

"Being assigned Nadeem Aslam as my barrister made the difference to having a successful case and final hearing in court.

I have never been through a court process like this. With so much at stake, it was very stressful time which Nadeem put a blanket of calmness over instantly. His professionalism along with personal experience really made a huge difference in how we moved forward.

Nadeem secured what I wanted from court and more. Going above and beyond from day one of speaking up, to and after the final court hearing. If you have a child arrangement order/dispute, 100% go through Nadeem. He really is a great guy."

Nadeem Aslam is one of our TBG House barristers. Backed by over twenty years' call, he's routinely instructed in civil litigation and family law matters, and prides himself on delivering a first-class legal service and simple, straightforward advice.

Find out more about Nadeem and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0c3SBd0

"Deirdre Smythe was recently instructed to represent me in family court. She showed both empathy and confidence throughout the build up of proceedings, taking time to listen and understand past experiences.

Without her help in creating the bundle for court and her expertise in court orders, we would not have secured this outcome for our family. She was confident and concise in the courtroom and a real help to all involved."

Deirdre Smythe is one of The Barrister Group's specialist family law barristers. Qualified to practice at both the English and Irish Bar, she holds a long background in social work and child protection, and a practice focused primarily on children matters and local authority proceedings.

Find out more about Deirdre and her practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bWL3Q0

Theo Pangraz is one of The Barrister Group's specialist commercial and business law barristers.

With more than 30 years of cross-jurisdictional legal experience, having spent 15 years in-house as General Counsel, Head of Legal and Managing Director of an international company, Theo has extensive practical experience in the mechanics of business and the reality of commercial negotiations.

As well as England and Wales, Theo is able to practise in Germany, and regularly reviews, drafts, and advises on commercial and construction contracts and corporate documents. He has a passion for providing proactive review, advice and drafting with an aim to identify and avoid legal pitfalls at an early stage.

Find out more about Theo and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bWL5_0

Barrister Sheila Aly featured in The Times last week for her representation of Mrs Lawrence in Mrs N Lawrence v Barclays Ex*****on Services, wherein the claimant presented complaints of race, s*x and religion discrimination and harassment.

The full judgment can be read at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bXghD0

Barrister Keith Webster has successfully represented a senior executive of Birmingham City Council securing a judgment of Suffering Detriments due to Whistleblowing and Unfair Dismissal.

Martin Tolley, after 36 years service, was subject to a covert investigation following whistleblowing allegations which he had made against his line manager’s Director, Robert James. The Allegations were of improper interference in multi-million pound contracts. Mr Tolley was then made subject to whistleblowing allegations against him and subsequently dismissed.

Mr Tolley was responsible for managing the Council’s portfolio of domestic property. As Head of Capital Investment and Repairs, he managed major contracts with annual budgets of £120 million. He also managed between 130 and 150 employees.

After six months of covert investigation, he was suspended and denied access to his emails as the investigation continued. Whistleblowing allegations were subsequently made against Mr Tolley by two anonymous whistleblowers. It was admitted in cross-examination that the first of these whistleblowers was a serial whistleblower, having made over 100 such allegations against the Council. It was revealed in cross-examination and upon the order of Employment Judge Edmonds that the identity of one of those whistleblowers was Mr Tolley’s line manager – then known as Julie Griffin. She reported directly to Robert James.

Six areas of potential misconduct were investigated; two resulted in actual allegations of misconduct. Neither of these allegations were particularised as Terms of Reference for investigation or disciplinary action and neither of which the Tribunal concluded fell within the 'band of reasonable responses' so as to justify a fair dismissal. Both, the Tribunal unanimously concluded, amounted to no more than ‘minor rule breaches’

The Tribunal reached a unanimous conclusion that Mr Tolley had been unfairly dismissed and had suffered detriments due to whistleblowing.

A Remedy Hearing has yet to be listed.

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bWlKv0

The Barrister Group’s ADR team boasts a roster of over 120 accredited mediators handling mediation and arbitration cases throughout the UK.

Our mediators are all fully accredited, have undergone a rigorous quality assurance process, and come from a diverse range of backgrounds and professions – meaning we can effectively manage disputes across all sectors and all areas of law.

What’s more, our dedicated in-house mediation clerks are experts in finding a mediator with the appropriate skills, experience, and location for your case. They’ll match our fees to your budget wherever reasonably possible, and will endeavor to find you a well-suited mediator as quickly as they can.

To find out more about our mediation and ADR services, get in touch with the team on 01823 704 099 or take a look at our website: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bNCXk0

Meet our judges 👇

Introducing Stephen Ward, Business Development Director and co-founder of The Barrister Group

You can find out more about Stephen Ward here:
https://www.cilexevents.org.uk/the-national-paralegal-awards-2024/meet-the-judges ⭐

We're so pleased to have you as one of our judges!

We’d like to welcome Jimmy Ogunshakin to The Barrister Group.

Jimmy is a commercial disputes and employment law barrister, whose practice is underpinned by a breadth of experience from 22 years’ post-qualification practice as a solicitor and as a civil advocate.

Find out more about Jimmy and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bGQZc0

Exchequer Chambers’ ‘Crucial Issues in Tax Disputes’ seminar is just around the corner — and there’s still time to secure your seat!

Featuring talks by leading tax practitioners, the event will see our specialist barristers accompanied by speakers from Deloitte, Tax Resolute and more at the Inner Temple on September 5th.

For the full agenda, or to book your place, head to: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bGsCV0

"I thought both the mediation service and the mediator were excellent. George Patros’ handling of the mediation and the (difficult) client on the day were first class.

He started by summarising the position and the key issues, demonstrating his experience and sound preparation and knowledge of the background and this helped quickly get to the nub of the dispute. He was also measured and courteous to everyone throughout and helped the parties to understand why compromise was in their own interests and enable them to reach a fair and reasonable agreed outcome.

I would definitely recommend and without hesitation use George Patros and TBG Mediation again."

We’d like to welcome Stefano Mariani to The Barrister Group.

Stefano is experienced in handling all stages of tax inquiries, audits, and disputes. He advises on both personal and corporate tax planning, with a focus on cross-border matters and international taxation, and has assisted clients in a number of offshore and international tax matters.

Find out more about Stefano and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bBvG_0

We'd like to welcome Julius Nkafu to The Barrister Group.

Julius holds extensive expertise in commercial and civil litigation and, as well as being a qualified solicitor, sits as both an arbitrator and mediator. He regularly acts in international arbitrations and administrative matters, and maintains a broad practice that encompasses aspects of property, employment, immigration and family law.

Find out more about Julius and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bzMKq0

"I once had the privilege of shadowing Ryan Brown on a few property matters, and I learned a tremendous amount from his expertise.

Ryan's attention to detail and his thorough understanding of property law are impressive. I can one hundred percent recommend his professional services to anyone needing assistance in this area. His dedication and skill make him a valuable asset to any team."

Ryan is a second-six pupil at The Barrister Group, completing a reduced pupillage on account of his substantial experience in property and housing law. Prior to joining chambers, he enjoyed a busy practice as an advocate, appearing in over 2,500 hearings.

Find out more about Ryan and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bylMN0

Congratulations to barrister Modupe Smith, who was recently appointed as a Fee-Paid Judge of the Employment Tribunal, effective from July 2nd, and as a Fee-Paid Judge of the First Tier Tribunal, effective from July 22nd.

"Delighted with Geoffrey Brunton. He got us over the line and I think he had to work pretty hard to get us there, so huge thank you to him. Very approachable, and I think my clients found it easy to talk to him.

The whole process from making enquiries for mediators, getting quotes and sorting the paperwork was seamless and efficient. Will definitely come back to you guys when I am looking for a mediator."

The Barrister Group is one of the largest mediation providers in England and Wales, hosting over 120 highly qualified and accredited mediators from a diverse range of professions.

Find out more about TBG ADR at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bsFFJ0

We had a lovely surprise from barrister Arlene Small on Monday, who visited our Taunton office in celebration of her 21st anniversary at The Barrister Group.

Arlene is our Head of Family and one of TBG's longest-standing members. Clearly, she also has a fantastic taste in cake!

Thank you, Arlene!

"I have nothing but praise for Mr Horaine Henry and his positive and approachable demeanour, putting me at ease straight away.

This was my first contested forfeiture and he ensured it all went smoothly despite facing a slightly hostile situation before court began. He remained calm throughout, tactfully handling the tension in a professional manner. I felt like he was well researched on the investigation and the result at the end of the case speaks for itself.

I would recommend Mr Henry when asked, and would not hesitate to work with him again."

Horaine Henry is a second-six pupil at The Barrister Group and accepts instructions across all areas of practice, including Proceeds of Crime and asset forfeiture. He holds particular knowledge in high-value financial services, and is part of TBG's Commercial Law team.

Find out more about Horaine and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bj-KL0

We'd like to welcome Amy Sloan to The Barrister Group.

Amy joins us with specialist expertise in civil, chancery, and commercial law. Backed by a diverse career history, she brings to her practice the knowledge of a broad range of industries; in particular, the niche fields of agriculture and farming and film and media law.

Find out more about Amy and her practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bjV_Z0

"David Isbister’s approach was professional and well-disposed with a clear focus on achieving the best possible outcome for the parties. David was able throughout to understand and consider the position and obligations of our client as a charity.

In all, David ensured that the process ran smoothly and efficiently, and we would recommend his services as a mediator in future matters.

We appreciated the quick and helpful responses from the administration team at The Barrister Group in relation to the payment of fees and provision of documents, which ensured the pre-mediation process was straightforward."

David Isbister is one of The Barrister Group's expert mediators, and regularly appears contentious probate and trust, claims against estates, and TOLATA disputes.

Find out more about David and his mediation practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bcC5l0

“A “traditionalist”, Hodgkin explains: “I’m a great believer in the Bar. I just think it needs to embrace change in order to keep ahead of the market.”"

Harry Hodgkin, CEO of The Barrister Group, talks technology, accessibility, and the business of law in today’s interview with The Times: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bgbpB0

"Arlene Small is extremely knowledgeable in anything family law and practice. What I found more compelling though was her ability to put my clients at ease even in very difficult and complex situations.

A special mention must go out to her clerking and admin team, Megan Grainger in particular. They are polite, patient, articulate and always ready to go the extra mile even if that means working outside of normal working hours. Well done, team. True professionals."

Arlene Small is The Barrister Group's Head of Family. She holds a wide-ranging and thriving family law practice, has established herself a dedicated advocate in the field.

Find out more about Arlene and her practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bcwz60

BBC Morning Live highlighted this morning the volume of small claims hearings taking place at present.

Recognising the importance of access to justice, The Barrister Group offers a fixed price service. If you’re in need of representation in an upcoming small claims hearing, we can help — with fixed fees starting from £500 + VAT.

Get in touch on 01823 247 247 or through our booking page: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bdLFB0

What can employers be doing to combat Deaf discrimination in the workplace?

This Thursday, The Barrister Group’s Lorraine Mensah will be joined by Deafness expert Dawn Baxter for an introductory webinar on Deaf discrimination.

They’ll unpack the most common forms of discrimination, how employers can best recognise and prevent issues, and what can be done to combat discriminatory behaviour when it arises.

The session is being run in support of Sign Health, the UK’s Deaf health and wellbeing charity, and tickets are available via the link below.

https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0bcpTc0

We’d like to welcome Adebayo Akinbade to The Barrister Group.

Adebayo joins us with a background in the regulatory, financial crime and AML sector, with specialist experience handling insolvency and bankruptcy matters. He also undertakes a broad range of civil and immigration work, and has a growing family practice that encompasses financial remedy, injunctions, and fact-finding hearings.

Find out more about Adebayo and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0b5MSL0

"I want to express my deep appreciation for Horaine Henry's effort and dedication to his work. Our client is extremely pleased with his performance.

A message from the client confirms that he witnessed Horaine's hard work, fight, and dedication."

Find out more about Horaine and his practice at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0b4Hy60

We’re pleased to share barrister Lynne Counsell's partnership with CILEX to produce the brand new CPD module, Hot Topic: Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987.

The comprehensive learning module, accessible below, breaks down the Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987, as well as the key terminology, caveats, and administrative provisions practitioners need to know.

CILEX members: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0b4nd30

Non-CILEX members: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0b4nkp0

“Andrew is extremely clever. He has a huge knowledge of tax and is very quick at grasping issues and coming up with commercial suggestions for resolving issues. He has an incredible depth of knowledge.”

Andrew Thornhill KC is one of The Barrister Group’s specialist barristers. He holds extensive experience across the full range of tax law, with particular expertise in matters pertaining to employee benefit trusts, employee remuneration, share schemes, inheritance tax, and capital gains tax planning and litigation.

To find out more about Andrew and his practice, or to instruct him on a tax matter, get in touch with Tyroon Win.

Last week, we took part in the 20th annual London Legal Walk to help improve access to justice in London and the South East.

An enormous well done to Team TBG, made up of both barristers and chambers staff, whose fundraising efforts will support a number of frontline advice services to continue helping vulnerable clients access vital legal support.

If you’d like to donate, our fundraising page is still live at: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H09XnHD0