Practice Overview
Alexander Learmonth has become a major presence at the chancery bar, combining "fine drafting skills" (Chambers UK) with "smooth and persuasive" advocacy” (Legal 500), and is described by clients as “absolutely wonderful” and “as good as any silk” (Who’s Who Legal). In conference, clients find him "charming" and "affable" (Chambers UK Bar), and able to provide reassurance at an emotionally difficult time.
Alexander's principal area of practice is in succession. Described as "intellectually and technically remarkable" (Legal 500), he has appeared in some of the leading cases in his fields, at every level of court, including the first probate case to reach the Supreme Court, Marley v Rawlings. He is editor of leading textbooks, Theobald on Wills and Williams, Mortimer & Sunnucks on Executors, Administrators and Probate,
He also has a growing reputation in Court of Protection work and handles professional negligence claims in related fields and the chancery aspects of family proceedings.
Alexander is also the Deputy Chancellor for the Diocese of Derby.
He also has recognised expertise in property law, being ranked in the Legal 500 and with several Court of Appeal decisions to his name.
Alexander won the ACTAPS ‘Contentious Barrister of the Year’ 2015 and was shortlisted for Chancery Junior of the Year at the Chambers UK Bar Awards 2019
"He has a very good client manner coupled with real intellect, strategic awareness and a desire to win."
Private Client: trusts and probate - Legal 500 2017
"Fantastically clever; He is a very good advocate and exceptional on his feet."
Chancery: Traditional - Chambers UK Bar 2018
“Is recognised as a true specialist in this area,” “He has an excellent eye for detail and truly adds value. Alexander is also a commanding advocate and is a match for most silks on his feet.” “He is incredible. He has some phenomenal ideas and is really innovative in a strategic way. I’ve been really impressed by the way he makes the client's position as strong as possible.”
Chambers High Net Worth 2019 Chancery Traditional: Band 1
“Never falters and is a man you can have total confidence in." "Up there with the best, he is someone you need if you're faced with a very tricky matter."
Chambers UK Bar and Global 2019 Trusts: Band 1
"Has incredible control and focus, and takes a highly strategic approach to his cases." "If you need someone with imagination and a bit of 'outside the box' thinking, he can be very useful."
Chambers UK Bar 2019 Chancery: Traditional: Band 2
“Is an excellent trial lawyer, cerebral but assertive and takes the judge with him – he is a true team player who rolls up his sleeves. ’
Legal 500 2020 Private Client: Trusts and Probate: Tier 1
“He has an amazing ability to cut straight to the important points in a case and his written advice is very clear and focused. ’
Legal 500 2020 Agriculture: Tier 2
Property Litigation: Tier 5
The "outstanding" Alexander Learmonth of New Square Chambers is considered a "star junior at the bar" who is "fantastic in cross-examination in particular".
Who's Who Legal - 2020