Region Area

Barristers

Alexander West

Albion Chambers, South West

Position

Alexander specialises in Matrimonial Finance, Regulatory Crime and Inquests. Having joined Chambers in 2014 following the successful completion of his pupillage, Alexander has built a busy practice within the Western Circuit and beyond, and is known for his friendly client manner and detailed approach to cases. Alexander is also a qualified mediator; a skill which assists when negotiating settlements on behalf of clients. Having maintained an intentionally broad Family Law practice for several years, Alexander now specialises in Matrimonial Finance, dealing with all aspects of financial remedy applications following divorce or separation. Alexander advises and provides advocacy services at all stages from initial application through to final hearing, and particularly enjoys the challenge of cases where matrimonial assets are unlikely to meet both parties’ needs. Alexander has experience beyond his level of call representing clients in Article 2 and non-Article 2 inquests, with and without a jury, dealing with issues such as disclosure, appropriate conclusions and PFD reports. Having worked in a variety of client-facing roles in the past, Alexander is able to put clients at ease in what is often a very unfamiliar environment, enabling them to give their best evidence. Typically representing public authorities, Alexander has a detailed understanding of issues surrounding Regulation 28 evidence, non-causative culpable conduct and the engagement of Article 2. He is able to provide advice on case strategy in addition or as an alternative to advocacy services. Alexander acts for regulators, individuals and businesses in a broad range of regulatory disputes, and is always happy to advise on areas which may be unfamiliar territory to those instructing. He is one of three barristers on the Western Circuit to be ranked in Chambers and Partners for Environmental Law, described as: “A rising star with a growing practice in environmental crime and regulatory matters. He regularly defends environmental prosecutions and has a particular focus on waste management”.

Career

Called 2011; Middle Temple; Middle Temple GDL Scholarship (2009/10), Middle Temple BPTC Scholarship (2010/2011), Sachs Prize for BPTC Results top 5% (2011), Winner National BPTC Criminal Advocacy Competition (2011)

Education

Philosophy and Theology (Joint Honours) Nottingham University; GDL

Mentions

Western Circuit • Regional Bar

Business and regulatory crime (including health and safety)

Leading junior2
Alexander West – Albion Chambers 'Alex is an exceptional advocate. He is clear and concise in court and has the ear of judges because he is so measured. His paperwork is good, and he gives sound and robust advice.'
Western Circuit • Regional Bar

Family: divorce and financial remedy

Leading junior3
Alexander West – Albion Chambers ‘Alex is calm and measured in his advice and communications, being robust in a quiet, unassuming way.’
Western Circuit • Regional Bar

Inquests and inquiries

Leading junior1
Alexander West – Albion Chambers ‘Alex is meticulously well-prepared, a brilliant tactician and impressive on his feet. He always seems to know the right approach to getting the best outcome.’