The former RAF pilot discusses his route into the legal profession
Jim Morris has recently joined Ashfords LLP as a partner and head of the firm's expert aviation team.
What was your route into the profession?
I studied law and business at the University of Edinburgh (1988-1992). During my degree I was an officer cadet with the RAF East Lowlands University Air Squadron and learned to fly the Bulldog TMk1. After graduating from university I joined the RAF as a pilot and flew a number of military aircraft (single piston, single turbo prop, fast jet, twin turbo prop, heavy jet) and my last flying tour was on the Boeing E-3D AWACS. In 2002 I lost my aircrew medical category (I developed a tiny risk of epilepsy). As I had a law degree and had front line pilot experience, the RAF Legal Branch recruited me and I qualified as a barrister. I then prosecuted Court Martial jury trials for the Legal Branch.
In 2008, after 16 years' service, I retired from the RAF to specialise in representing the victims of aviation accidents.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Losing my flying career at the age of 32 then having to qualify and build a new career as a specialist aviation lawyer.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
Military/ airline pilot.
What change would you make to the profession?
Stricter rules for UK lawyers in relation to unsolicited approaches to victims and families who have lost loved ones in aviation accidents. US Federal Law forbids any unsolicited communications by US lawyers to victims or victims’ families within 45 days from the date of an accident in the US—I would like to see something similar (or even more stringent) incorporated into UK law that applies to accidents worldwide.
How do you relax?
DIY on a very old house.
