Liverpool Law Mar 2017

Bar News
Complete Counsel expands team
Complete Counsel, which launched in 2015, is an innovative digital based model which
enables Barristers to practise as sole practitioners or from existing Chambers, but with
appropriate support from experienced experts on a contractual basis.
Claire Labio, Practice Director commented ‘We are approaching our second anniversary and
experience has so far shown that if a Barrister does engage and follow the guidance given they will see real
growth in terms of practice and cash flow. What started out as a project that others in the profession said
would never last nor attract more Barristers than the 1 it started with, is now flourishing and is 7 strong.
We are about to achieve ISO 9001 accreditation having passed Stage 1, demonstrating our ability to
consistently provide a quality management system and enhance client satisfaction.I was recently asked if
Barristers using the service from outside of Liverpool were just ‘Door Tenants’. Traditionally Chambers
accepted Barristers on to their door to enhance their offering visually whilst not really having much to do
with the actual development of that Barristers practice. We do not use the term ‘Door Tenant’ for that very
reason. Our Barristers receive on to one personal development whether they are with us full time or not.’
The two new additions are Tom Goodhead and James Byrne, both practitioners at 9 Gough
Square in London. Tom and James were looking for a northern base to complement their
southern practices in a way which would help them but would not conflict in relation to their
primary tenancy. Claire explained ‘Tom and James are experienced PI, Clinical Negligence and
Product Liability specialists.
Michael Sherry
They recognised that we could offer them solid links and exposure in the North which would in
turn increase their practices’
Tom Goodhead
"I have always undertaken a significant amount of work in the North West but have never had
a base to call home in the region. Through Complete Counsel and the exceptional clerking of
Claire Labio, I have the opportunity to service existing clients better and look forward to
meeting new clients in the region."
James Byrne
“I am finding already that working with Claire and the Complete Counsel team will be
invaluable to me in building my practice in the North West.
Tom Goodhead
The personal relationships that they have with the leading Liverpool firms has opened doors for
me which would have been very difficult to unlock without them."
Tom and James are not the only ones using the service in this way. Michael Sherry, Head of
Temple Tax Chambers has been with Complete Counsel for a year now. Michael specialises in
private client, tax planning, VAT and related areas. He is originally from Bolton and already
had some connections in the area. Michael wanted to develop his practice in the North, but in
a way which was cost effective and would not create any conflict in relation to his continuing
practice as Head of Chambers, Temple Tax Chambers.
Michael Sherry
"Whilst maintaining my position at Temple Tax as Head of Chambers, I see making the Bar
more accessible to professionals and clients in the North West a priority for a specialist. It is
a question of using a service that has local knowledge and will develop contacts and
opportunities.”
James Byrne
Further information about Complete Counsel contact.
claire.labio@completecounsel.co.uk
Need an expert in medical or
dental negligence?
Refer to us. City
: Allerton : Garston
0151 733 3353
www.gadllp.co.uk
www.liverpoollawsociety.org.uk
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