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2023 Silks

Alex Troup KCSt John’s Chambers ‘He is an all-round exceptional barrister who instills confidence from an early stage in the lay client and those instructing him. He is incredibly bright and is a tremendously confident and measured advocate who has the ear of the court. Even before his appointment to King’s Counsel, he was the principal barrister in Bristol for meaty Chancery matters.’ 

Leading Juniors

James Pearce-Smith – St John’s Chambers 'James gives very clear advice and this is mirrored in his polite but effective advocacy. He always has a strong grasp of the facts and applicable law.'   
Oliver Wooding  – St John’s Chambers 'He continuously delivers excellent work both on paper and in person at mediations and hearings. His skill and expertise is evident on every instruction and the quality and promptness of his work never falters. In addition to his impressive breadth of knowledge, he is proficient in interacting with clients and always gives every case 100%.' 
William BatstoneGuildhall Chambers ‘His advocacy is excellent; he is thorough in his preparation and he always comes across as completely on top of his brief.  His advocacy is effective rather than theatrical - with clear presentation and convincing arguments that can always be relied up. He is more than a match for London-based barristers.' 
Christopher JonesSt John’s Chambers 'A strong cross-examiner who is very confident in court.'

Agriculture in Regional Bar

St John's Chambers


St John’s Chambers is a ‘strong set with strength in depth‘ in relation to agricultural matters on the Western Circuit, with members representing landowners, estates, trustees, tenants, developers and local authorities, among other interested parties, in relation to a wide range of issues. James Pearce-Smith has extensive experience as a commercial litigator, including in cases involving farming partnerships and food production businesses. Alex Troup KC, who took silk in March 2023, is a ‘standout‘ barrister with a strong Bristol-based chancery practice that often involves agricultural elements. He recently appeared in Hughes v Pritchard in the Court of Appeal, a high-profile dispute concerning the validity of a deceased farmer’s will and a proprietary estoppel claim. Leslie Blohm KC, as was, is now a Senior Circuit Judge.

Testimonials

‘St John’s Chambers’ clerks’ room is dynamic, efficient and especially helpful.  In particular,  Paul Bennett is always prompt to respond and incredibly helpful when there are any queries that need addressing urgently.’

‘St John’s Chambers’ clerking team is the most efficient and knowledgeable in Bristol. Paul Bennett in particular is excellent.’

‘Simon Lyons and Paul Bennett cannot be faulted, and the clerks generally are always friendly, helpful and accommodating and broadly speaking very quick to reply to enquiries and/or work schedules and diaries around to meet client needs.’

‘St John’s Chambers has proven its ability to take on a range of difficult and complex cases, both when it comes to expert advice and where representation is needed at a mediation or hearing.’ 

 

Work highlights