John Brooke-Smith LL B (Exon)

John started his career in London in 1981, and joined East Anglian Chambers in 1988.  He is a member of the family and personal injury teams and sits as a part time Judge (a Recorder). 

He is known for his excellent manner with clients, and is firm and tenacious when dealing with opponents in negotiation and in presenting his arguments to the Court.  

He is recommended in Legal 500, and is a pupil supervisor.  He has represented parents in contested High Court care proceedings and frequently acts for parties in high value ancillary relief (money) claims. 

He accepts work on a direct access basis.

Recent cases:

• Obtained order at end of 5 day contested hearing in front of High Court Judge that child be cared for by grandparent in face of strong opposition from local authority, guardian and expert witness (psychiatrist)
• Advised with leading counsel in dispute in High Court over enforceability of pre-nuptial financial agreement
• Acted in claim against assets which were owned by substantial farming partnership
• Conducted fully contested trial over beneficial ownership of assets owned by unmarried cohabitees : Parrott v Parkin [2007] EWHC 210 (Admlty); [2007] 1 Lloyd's Rep. 719; [2007] 2 FLR 444
• Obtained urgent injunction from High Court (by telephone on a Saturday afternoon) to secure return of assets (by force if necessary) being wrongfully detained by third party