John Walmsley, Director of JKW Law

I am so very pleased to introduce the readers of London In Photos to John Walmsley who is kindly taking his time out to take part in the blog series “A Day With…”. John is a very very dear friend whom I met at a networking event a few years ago. He is quite a fan of Russian culture – that’s at least how we bonded initially. John was born in Manchester but has lived in London for 25 years and I am looking forward to discussing with him his experiences of London and learning about new interesting places to visit.

John Walmsley is a lawyer and runs his own small commercial law firm “JKW Law” in the City. He has provided excellent counsel to my web design company regarding commercial and legal matters over the years. Taking our friendship aside, I can wholeheartedly recommend him to those needing legal advice, especially to small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) and individuals. He is a professional of great integrity who will provide you with tailored advice and professionally and calmly lead you through all the necessary legal documentation and processes which can often be intimidating.

John is a respected lawyer with over 20 years of commercial legal experience having been admitted as a Solicitor in 1993. John obtained an LL.M. in commercial law from the University of Bristol and passed his professional exams in London. He was trained and spent 11 years working with a medium sized City law firm.

John started up his own firm - JKW Law in 2006 in London.

Clients include small and medium-sized companies, LLP's and private individuals. John has acted for overseas clients and foreign law firms on substantial and complex matters. Recent cases include a commercial fraud case, a large and well publicised insolvency, commercial property, banking, employment and tax advice.

John has also undertaken immigration work for many years advising Russian and other foreign nationals.

Inna: John, I can't not mention Breakfast Forums that you organise once a month or so. They are fantastic! I have learnt a lot from you and it was a very fun and relaxing way to network too. What will be the focus of your next event and when is it happening?
John: The next Breakfast Forum is in September on commercial fraud. Please contact me if you would like to attend this event. If you can't make it or you are interested in a different topic, please have a look at my regularly updated Events Page. There, you will also be able to find topics that I have covered in the past during these meet-ups and some uploaded material that I used during presentations.

Inna: So what would be a typical day for you at the office?
John: I enjoy working on a variety of commercial matters and there is not a typical day. I might be in the office, attending meetings or possibly in court.

Inna: Taking a step away from business. What are your favourite places in London?
John: I love London and have watched it change a great deal over the last twenty five years. I always recommend seeing London from the river if you do not know the City well. I have been to the museums and parks many times over the years with my family. Covent Garden is one of my favourite places and more recently I have come to love Borough Market and watched The Shard being built. My old office was close by in SE1 and walked past The Shard every day to work.

Inna: That's amazing - I lam a big fan of The Shard! I remember when I arrived, The Gherkin was pretty much the only sky-scraper around. How do you feel London has changed over the years?
John: It is a much more internationally regarded City. It always had great culture but it is now modern with great restaurants and international events which attract people from all over the world. June is my favourite time and London is at its best with the warmer days, longer evenings and Wimbledon. Having visited New York, Chicago, Moscow, Paris,Toronto and other major cities - London has to be in the top three, possibly top two cities in the World. I am fond of a quote from Henry James - 'It might not be agreeable or easy, but it is certainly magnificent'. As a force of nature - London is irresistible.

Inna: Have you had good news on the rugby front? If I am not mistaken, congratularions are in order!
John: I support Saracens and they became champions of the Aviva Premiership this year for the second time. I was at Twickenham for the final in May and watched them lift the cup. It was a great day.

Inna: Cannot wish for more as a fan! Thank you for featuring on LondonInPhotos, John! It was a pleasure to talk to you. I wish you continued success!