Preston solicitor passes top insolvency exam

A Preston-based solicitor has been recognised for his expertise in insolvency matters after passing a key exam.

James Robbins, who is a solicitor at Harrison Drury, has gained insolvency practitioner status after passing the rigorous Joint Insolvency Examination Board (JIEB) exams first time round.

James has specialised in insolvency law since qualifying as a solicitor in 2012 and obtaining the Certificate of Proficiency in Insolvency in 2013.

James, who regularly advises insolvency practitioners as well as creditors and directors of insolvent companies, is now one of only a very small number of people in Lancashire and Cumbria to be dual-qualified as a solicitor and insolvency practitioner.

The exam pass means that the 32-year-old will now also be better placed to advise on technical insolvency issues and work on other non-contentious insolvency matters, including business sales.

James said: “The exams were very challenging so I’m pleased and relieved that the hard work has paid off. Studying for the exams has significantly improved my technical and practical knowledge, enabling me to provide comprehensive and practical advice on all insolvency matters.”

John Chesworth, managing director of Harrison Drury, added: “Harrison Drury is committed to continuously developing its people to enable the firm to offer an unrivalled legal service.

“James’ achievement shows his dedication to his role at the firm while demonstrating his specialist expertise in insolvency recovery strategies.” The JIEB exams are notoriously difficult and out of 249 candidates sitting the exams in 2014, only 52 people passed all three papers.