Paul Chaloner's speech at the Law Society Ball in Eastbourne

On Friday 30 January, Barwells Director Paul Chaloner had the honour of delivering a speech at the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne in his role as President of the Eastbourne Law Society, a position he is holding for the second consecutive year.

While preparing for the evening, Paul discovered that the Society has now been in existence for an impressive 99 years. With the centenary fast approaching, a return for the 100th year may yet be on the cards.

The evening was attended by family, fellow legal professionals and guests from across the region, including the Presidents of the Hastings and Sussex Law Societies. Headline sponsors Barclays Bank were represented by Peter Mills and a guest, and Paul expressed his thanks for their continued support.

Paul was also pleased to be joined by fellow Barwells directors and associates, alongside members of the wider Barwells team.

This year’s speech explored the challenges faced by long-established solicitors adapting to the rapidly evolving world of AI, a contrast to last year’s more light-hearted reflections on memorable moments from Paul’s legal career.

Drawing on his early days as a general practitioner, Paul shared stories ranging from complex VAT fraud cases to serving injunctions on some rather imposing individuals, before reflecting on the more structured world of conveyancing and commercial property that he works in today.

A memorable evening and a proud moment for both Paul and everyone at Barwells.