A NORTH-EAST law firm has made legal history by launching the first barrister and solicitor-run criminal law practice in the UK.

The move comes after changes to the Legal Services Act 2007 allowed barristers and solicitors to set up in business together for the first time.

Experts at business advisor UNW negotiated the financing deal to allow Kyle’s Legal Practice Ltd, which will work on all aspects of criminal and prison law, to open seven offices across the region, creating 20 jobs.

Before the change in legislation, barristers worked as self-employed practitioners within chambers and were prohibited from incorporating or joining together as partners.

Now barristers Brian Mark and Nick Peacock, who have 42 years’ experience between them, and solicitor John Turner have teamed up and become co-directors of Kyle’s.

UNW partner Alan Suggett helped the firm with its business plan, financial projections and negotiating a funding package with Lloyds TSB.