John had a successful first year in office which included a number of social events and seminars, as well as a well-attended dinner in November, which raised £1500 for Demelza Hospice Care For Children; a figure that was price matched by the partners at CooperBurnett.
The TWTDLS was founded in May 1933 by local solicitors practicing in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. Led by a committee elected annually, it offers support to local solicitors and other legal professionals, including networking, training and social events, while also representing the local members in consultations with The Law Society, Solicitors Regulation Authority and other Government bodies. In addition to solicitors, the membership also includes paralegals, trainees, legal executives, barristers and in-house counsel.
“I am proud to be President for a second year,” says John. “Our events throughout the past year have been well attended and we’ve already got a date scheduled in for a quiz night in March.”
John is looking to increase the number of training events TWTDLS runs this year from four in 2022 to at least six.
“These courses have covered a range of subjects from employment to property litigation and are important for continuing professional development,” he says.
Other goals John has this year include continuing to strengthen the relationship between TWTDLS and the Law Society of England and Wales. He has met Lubna Shuji, current Law Society President at regional events. In addition, he is looking to secure additional sponsors for the organisation (alongside Newman Business Solutions and TN Recruits Law).
CooperBurnett has been closely involved with TWTDLS for a number of years. Partners Victoria Sampson and Katie Gillam have held the position of President in the past, as did former Partner Jonathan Smithers, who went on to be President of the Law Society.
“John has been an exemplary President of TWTDLS over the past year, raising its profile and highlighting what a vital role it plays in supporting the legal profession locally,” says Partner Joseph Oates. “We are very proud that he is continuing his presidency into a second year and wish him another successful term in office.”
