City lawyers band together to defend Britain’s EU membership

Led by Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer’s John Davies, the lawyers from several firms are considering whether to derogate from their firms’ neutrality on the issue because of the danger an exit poses for business.

Allen & Overy’s David Morley said the Brexit was “the defining issue for the UK, for the economy, if not society as a whole, for a generation”.

The senior partner added: “Typically law firms wouldn’t get involved in politics as we have to work with governments and we don’t like to take positions which clients might disagree with but this is different.”

The group, called “Lawyers – In for Britain”, said its members were not representing law firms and that their legal advice remains neutral.

Speaking to the FT, he said: “Personally I feel that lawyers can be quite effective, even though we’re not the most popular people in the world.

“In given communities lawyers can have a reputation for being trustworthy about the facts, so if we’re able to produce something, that may help.”

He added: “I feel strongly that the UK’s economic future and security is better protected as being part of the European Union, so I took a view before the general election that it is something I ought to take an interest in.

“I don’t have a political background, I haven’t been involved in any party.”

The group, which also counts Rhodri Thompson QC of Matrix Chambers,Kevin Coates from the European Commission and Martin Coleman of Norton Rose Fulbright among its members, has held a number of meetings.

A group for young lawyers has also been formed in tandem. The “Young Lawyers Network — Stronger In” currently has 38 members and is led by Darren Jones of Bond Dickinson. He said the group, concerned with issues such as the digital single market, the Erasmus programme and European travel, was contacting universities across the UK to assist with its campaign.

He said: “There are significant implications for our clients but also for our country.

“There are a lot of legal professionals that are concerned about it and are willing to take steps.”