Solicitor Advocate Services

If you require representation in a commercial litigation case, then you should be aware that some cases may be more cost-effectively referred to a solicitor advocate rather than a barrister. At JMW, our solicitor advocate services will help to ensure you receive the best-value representation in your case.

JMW’s commercial litigation department boasts in-house advocacy expertise, providing a seamless integration of legal and advocacy services. Led by our expert solicitor advocate and partner Stephen Topping, our advocacy offering provides a cost-effective and streamlined alternative to the traditional barrister instruction model. By having a specialist solicitor advocate in-house, we ensure continuity of service and close collaboration with our clients throughout the litigation process.

Our solicitor advocate services are based at JMW’s Manchester office, allowing for daily interaction with clients and our commercial litigation team. This close working relationship enables us to offer timely advice on all matters relating to forthcoming or potential hearings, ensuring our clients are well-prepared and supported at every stage. With JMW, you benefit from the expertise of qualified legal professionals with extended rights of audience, representing you across all courts, including all of the higher courts.

To speak to JMW about our commercial litigation solicitor advocacy service, give us a call on 0345 872 6666, or fill in our online enquiry form to request a call back.

Our Solicitor Advocate Services

At JMW, our solicitor advocate services are designed to provide comprehensive and expert legal representation for our clients. Our offering is led by Stephen Topping, a seasoned solicitor advocate with over two decades of experience.

Stephen has represented clients in the High Court and is qualified to represent clients in the Court of Appeal and the UK Supreme Court. His extensive experience allows him to quickly identify the issues in dispute and assess the strengths and weaknesses of each case. With a strong track record in settling disputes, Stephen collaborates closely with your litigation solicitor or partner to formulate a litigation strategy that maximises your prospects of success.

Our commercial litigation advocacy services include:

• Expert case assessment: we pinpoint the critical issues and evaluate the merits of the case so you receive clear and strategic advice from the outset.
• Strategic litigation planning: working with your existing JMW legal team, we help develop a robust litigation strategy tailored to your specific needs and goals.
• In-court representation: as your advocate, we provide representation in court, offering continuity and expert guidance throughout the legal process.
• Client-centred approach: many clients find reassurance in dealing with the same person from the start through to the mediation or court process. Stephen’s personable manner and professional expertise help place clients at ease, ensuring a smooth and confident navigation through their legal challenges.

By choosing JMW’s solicitor advocate services, you benefit from the combined expertise of a dedicated advocate and the wider resources of our commercial litigation department. This integrated approach ensures that your case is handled with the utmost care and precision, providing you with the best possible outcome.

What is a Solicitor Advocate?

A solicitor advocate is a qualified solicitor who has undergone further training to acquire the same rights of audience as a barrister. This additional qualification allows them to represent clients in higher courts, including the High Court, Court of Appeal and UK Supreme Court. Solicitor advocates are skilled in legal practice and courtroom advocacy, providing a comprehensive legal service under one roof.

Solicitor advocates offer tailored legal services, they have the advantage of being involved in the case from the outset, offering continuity and a deeper understanding of the client's needs. This integrated approach ensures that clients receive consistent, informed advice and representation throughout their legal proceedings.

Choosing a solicitor advocate from JMW means benefiting from an in-house advocate who works closely with our commercial litigation team. This collaboration allows for seamless communication and strategic planning, ensuring that all aspects of your case are meticulously prepared and presented.

What are the Differences Between a Solicitor Advocate and Barrister?

Understanding the distinctions between a solicitor advocate and a barrister is important when deciding the best representation for your legal needs. Both roles involve advocacy and representing clients in court, but they differ in training, scope of practice, and how they integrate within the legal profession.

Scope of practice

• Solicitor advocate: solicitor advocates work within law firms, providing both legal advice and courtroom representation. This dual role means they can manage a case from initial consultation through to the final court appearance. They work closely with clients throughout the legal process, ensuring continuity and a thorough understanding of the case.
• Barrister: barristers are usually self-employed and work in chambers with other barristers. They are typically instructed by solicitors to represent clients in court. Barristers specialise in advocacy and may provide specialist legal opinions. They usually get involved in a case at the litigation or trial stage, rather than from the beginning.

Client interaction:

• Solicitor advocate: clients of solicitor advocates benefit from dealing with the same legal professional throughout their case. This continuity can provide reassurance and a deeper understanding of the client’s needs and objectives. The solicitor advocate's role within a law firm allows for seamless integration of legal advice and advocacy.
• Barrister: barristers are generally engaged for specific tasks such as court appearances and specialist advice. While they have in-depth knowledge of the case from an advocacy perspective, their interaction with the client is often more limited compared to solicitor advocates.

Integration within legal teams:

• Solicitor advocate: as part of a law firm, solicitor advocates work closely with other solicitors and legal professionals, providing a cohesive approach to legal services. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of a case are managed efficiently and effectively.
• Barrister: barristers are independent practitioners who may work with multiple solicitors from different firms. This independence allows them to offer unbiased, specialised advocacy but may result in less integrated case management.

Choosing between a solicitor advocate and a barrister depends on your specific legal needs and preferences for how your case is handled. At JMW, our in-house solicitor advocates provide the benefits of both legal expertise and dedicated courtroom representation, ensuring your case is managed with the highest level of professionalism and care.