Chambers and Partners
Put simply, Thirty Nine Essex Street is a set which “ticks all the boxes.” Marked by a “refreshing modernity and pragmatism,” it is staffed by individuals who are “commercial, solution-oriented team players.” The epitome of an “excellent all-round set,” it has the strength in depth to handle a wide array of legal disciplines with consummate ease. It scores particularly highly in the public law arena, where it is regularly called upon to handle human rights, local government, immigration and Court of Protection matters, and also has a formidable reputation for its personal injury and professional discipline work. Stuart Catchpole QC is one of a number of leading lights within chambers. A “hands-down fantastic advocate,” he has been involved in such recent high-profile cases as CPC Group v Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company. His stablemate Nigel Pleming QC is an “absolute star” who recently appeared before the Supreme Court on behalf of MPs challenging the constitutionality of criminal charges brought against them. The set is particularly well liked by instructing solicitors as its “helpful, prompt and responsive” clerks have an “acute understanding of the client’s needs when recommending counsel.”
Client Service at the Bar
At Thirty Nine Essex Street, a “refreshing modernity” runs through the clerks, the barristers and even the building itself. The exemplary clerking team has embraced modern methods and runs the set in a businesslike and efficient manner, which results in a supremely smooth relationship with solicitors. Those that instruct the set praise the “pragmatic and commercial” service on offer here and the “friendly and accommodating” clerks, who impress with their total control of the diary, quick turnaround, flexible fee arrangements and constructive approach to resolving any issues that arise. They “know their team of barristers inside out and always recommend the best person.” Solicitors are further impressed with the ancillary services provided by the barristers here. For instance, “they make themselves available to travel for conferences and take informal calls for preliminary advice.” The set has also put a great deal of thought into providing all the extras that solicitors want but often do not get. For example, instead of just bashing out “the same old boring lectures,” Thirty Nine Essex Street puts on consistently well-received “top-quality innovative interactive training.” Even the monthly newsletters are of a higher standard than most, with the Court of Protection Monthly Newsletter being singled out for particular praise.