New hires and new home for Exchange Chambers

BARRISTERS’ set Exchange Chambers is on the move with to a new Manchester base and is boosting its ranks with three experienced members.

The chambers has signed a 10-year lease on 10,000sq ft of space on the top floor at 201 Deansgate, and will move from its current location at Ralli Court, West Riverside, in January, where it occupies 8,500 sq ft.

The new space includes a board room and eight additional conference rooms, and will allow for more flexible working practices in a changing market.

Tom Handley, director of chambers  said: “The Government’s cutbacks to legal aid have had a devastating impact on barristers undertaking publicly funded work. As a direct result of the cuts, a high profile chambers in London has already closed its doors – and more may well follow.  To survive and succeed, the Bar needs to adapt its working practices.  At 201 Deansgate our accommodation will include traditional offices as well as open plan space and hot desking areas.    

“Barristers from different practice areas will have different requirements, depending on how much time they spend in Chambers and how much time they spend in court.  The layout of the office will reflect this – and so will members’ contributions which we will be keeping at a very competitive level.”

The three new members, who all join from St Johns Buildings are: Philip Parry, David Bentley and Paul Hodgkinson.

Philip Parry, who was appointed a Recorder (Crime) in 2012, specialises in serious crime, inquests and regulatory work – with particular focus on health and safety.

David Bentley also specialises in serious crime, inquests and regulatory law. He is often seen in high profile criminal cases involving serious organised crime including murder, armed robbery, commercial fraud, money laundering, large scale drugs conspiracies and human trafficking. He is also the counsel of choice for many NHS Trusts who require representation at inquests involving deaths in hospitals.

Paul Hodgkinson was originally a solicitor, but became a barrister in 2002 specialising in serious crime, fraud, regulatory and coronial work. His practice includes serious and complex cases.

He is also a registered lawyer with the Professional football Association and is frequently instructed in privately funded motoring law cases.

Tom Handley added: “We are thrilled to welcome Philip, David and Paul to Chambers.  They are outstanding practitioners who are joining Chambers at an exciting time.”