The barristers at 18 St John Street are delighted to announce that Alex Beevers and Sophie Lenton have accepted invitations to join Chambers, following the successful completion of their pupillages.
Alex joins the criminal department and Sophie joins the family department.
Alex Beevers’ pupillage was under the supervision of Rachel Shenton. During which, he observed and assisted on a wide range of criminal cases for both prosecution and defence – including murder, drug supply and serious sexual and violent offences. During his second six, Alex represented defendants and was prosecuted in the Crown Court and magistrates on several varying offences. Before pupillage, Alex worked as a Litigation Assistant at Kennedys, a global law firm specialising in insurance law. Here, he was able to develop relationships with both solicitors and clients – a crucial skill for practising at the criminal bar. Alex also gained experience working as a Judicial Assistant to Lord Justice Coulson in the Court of Appeal, splitting his time between the criminal and civil division. The opportunity to learn from one of the country’s most senior judges and experienced advocates alike has enhanced Alex’s written and oral advocacy, further equipping him with the skills demanded of a criminal advocate.
Sophie Lenton’s pupillage was under the supervision of Vanessa Lau. During first six, she gained insight into all aspects of public and private family law, ranging from non-molestation orders to complex findings of fact hearings concerning domestic violence, sexual abuse, and non-accidental injuries. In addition, Sophie observed high-profile cases relating to the High Court’s inherent jurisdiction to deprive children of their liberty. During Sophie’s second six in Chambers, she represented parents, Children’s Guardians and Local Authorities in Care proceedings and represented parties in Private Law Children Act proceedings. Before commencing pupillage, Sophie gained invaluable experience working as a Care Paralegal at Cartwright King Solicitors in Nottingham. Sophie worked closely with clients and solicitors, assisting with all aspects of case management. She regularly advised clients, running her own files and representing them in pre-proceedings meetings.
Head of Chambers’ Pupillage Committee, Soria Kajue said,
“We are honoured to officially welcome Alex and Sophie to Chambers. The Pupillage and Recruitment Committee detected their patent charm and star quality when they first applied, which has flourished ever since. They have truly excelled during their pupillages, and I know that they have very successful careers ahead of them.”
Chambers Director, James Parks commented,
“Both Sophie and Alex are excelling in their respective fields, already receiving great acclaim for their advocacy and client service. Chambers very much looks forward to seeing their careers develop at 18 St John Street.”
For further information on Alex Beevers or Sophie Lenton, please contact crime@18sjs.com or family@18sjs.com or call 0161 278 1800.