Pete Weatherby, a barrister at Garden Court North Chambers in Manchester, acted for Michael Shields, the Liverpool supporter who was found guilty of attempted murder in Bulgaria and jailed for 15 years. The sentence was later reduced to ten years on appeal, and Shields was repatriated to serve the balance of his sentence in an English prison.

The High Court ruled that Jack Straw, the Justice Secretary, did have the “power and jurisdiction” to exercise the Royal Prerogative of mercy and therefore the power to grant him a free pardon.

What were the main challenges in this case and the possible implications?

The judicial review raised novel points relating to the incorporation and interpretation of an international treaty: the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons 1983. Jack Straw has indicated that he has spent more time on this matter than on any other individual case since taking office, and is considering whether to grant a pardon. A pardon is the last stop on the justice line; it is the final constitutional method of preventing continuing injustice where normal due process fails.

What was your worst day as a lawyer?

Was it the time when a certain Sheffield judge called me sullen? Or the time (when still a pupil) that another barrister told a court clerk (wrongly and maliciously) that I did not have right of audience? Probably not. Just the last time I lost a case.

What was your most memorable experience as a lawyer?

It was probably when this chambers opened in Manchester. There have always been many fine lawyers specialising in human rights and civil liberties law north of Watford, but this remains the first such barristers’ chambers.

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?

I have plenty of role models, heroes and heroines, but truly I get my inspiration from those who beaver away out of the limelight, and those who are thrust into fighting for what is right by the circumstances they find themselves in. Anti-heroes are altogether easier: Margaret Thatcher.

Why did you become a lawyer?

I have always challenged things. I am paid for it as a lawyer. I never had any illusion that lawyers can change the world — at least not as lawyers – but we can make a difference to the most vulnerable in society and help to curb the excesses of power.

What would your advice be to anyone wanting a career in law?

Publicly funded law faces a bleak future. If you are interested in this area, think twice and then again. You need to be very committed, or do privately funded or commercial law. Or become a plumber. Often you will be paid more.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

My youngest will hopefully be just finishing in university. Probably on a beach in Cuba with my partner and a mojito. Workwise, I will be doing the same.

l_tsang@hotmail.co.uk

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