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Leathes Prior’s Senior Partner, Paul Warman, is set to retire as a Partner after 34 years of service at the firm on Monday 31 March 2025.

Paul joined Leathes Prior in 1991 before becoming a Partner in 1994 and has been a cornerstone in the growth of the firm’s Corporate and Commercial offering. Specialising in corporate law himself, in particular the sale and purchase of private companies, MBO’s, company re-organisations, fundraising, and joint ventures, he is well known for acting for a large number of local businesses, as well as national and international clients.

Paul stepped into the role of Senior Partner after the retirement of William Riley in 2022 and is known for his sharp legal mind, strategic insight, and, in particular, his scarf wearing. Paul has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's direction, mentoring countless colleagues, and championing the values that define Leathes Prior.

Though Paul is stepping down from his role as Senior Partner, we are delighted to announce that he will continue with us as a Consultant. In this capacity, he will share his extensive experience, provide strategic counsel, and support the development of our next generation of legal talent.

Partner Dan Chapman commented: “Paul's contributions to Leathes Prior are immeasurable. His leadership, wisdom, and dedication have left an indelible mark on our firm. When Paul joined LP in 1991 the firm was largely a legal aid practice with little or no commercial and corporate presence – what he has managed to achieve during his tenure is nothing short of remarkable. He has not just achieved the creation and growth of a leading Corporate and Commercial Team, but has managed to play a prominent role in the growth of other related practice areas such as Employment and Commercial Property too, all of which have left the firm upon his retirement as a Partner in such a good place. We are incredibly grateful for his service and thrilled that he will remain part of our team as a Consultant.”

Paul shared his thoughts on this transition: “It has been an honour to serve as Senior Partner at Leathes Prior. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to supporting the firm in my new role as Consultant. The future of Leathes Prior is bright, and I hope to have left Leathes Prior in a better place than when I first started.”

Please join us in congratulating Paul on his remarkable career and wishing him every success in this new chapter. We look forward to benefiting from your continued insight and guidance Paul.

With Paul retiring this means that Mike Barlow will become Senior Partner at the firm. Mike joined Leathes Prior in 1995 before becoming a Partner in 2000 and he was for many years the firm’s Managing Partner. Mike heads the firm’s Dispute Resolution Team, specialising in commercial and business disputes. Mike has extensive experience in acting for clients in complex High Court cases, commercial arbitrations, adjudications, and mediations.