Emma Zeb

Emma completed her pupilage with a specialist PI and Clinical Negligence set in London, before moving to St John’s Chambers in December 1999.

“When I completed my pupilage there was a worrying lack of quality junior PI work in London, due mainly to the introduction of the CPR and abolition of civil legal aid.

“In fact my chambers didn’t have enough work to offer me a tenancy, but luckily St John’s was advertising and told me they had plenty of challenging PI work to keep me occupied here in Bristol.

“I specialise in personal injury and clinical negligence work for claimants and defendants and have progressed I think far more quickly in terms of reputation, case work and earnings than I could have if I’d stayed in London.

“Certainly that seems to be the message I take from talking to my contemporaries who stayed in the capital.

“It’s also a joy to work in Bristol. I live very close to the Chambers and it’s so easy to get to work and travel around if I need to see clients or collect papers.

“As for the Chambers itself the clerks and barristers are very friendly although we’ve limited time to socialise as we’re so busy (which, of course, is a good thing!).

“And it’s not like there’s nothing to do outside of work. We’re close to the coast and the cost of living’s a little cheaper than London, so you have some money to spend!

“I like the fact it’s a relatively small place too, as you get to know the barristers and judges on the circuit quite quickly. There’s a very good atmosphere”. Tenant’s CV