Mike

2/3 of the man I used to be.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@BarbaraRich_law @Veronic44707932 Just to add- your pictures are very good, sorry clumsy wording!

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@BarbaraRich_law @Veronic44707932 In retirement my father has done a BA in photography- it has utterly changed his approach to taking a pic - hes actually very good now !!

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@GsuGrinding Have you looked at the Scottish "not proven" 3rd type of verdict... what you want exists!

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

A lovely tribute.

[Karl Turner MP @KarlTurnerMP]

Paul “Silver Spoon” Norton

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of Paul “Silver Spoon” Norton, a highly respected criminal solicitor advocate, a dear friend, and one of the most memorable characters I have ever had the privilege to know.

I first met Paul in 2005 at Max Gold Solicitors in Hull. It did not take long to realise that he was exceptional in every way. He was an impressive criminal advocate, blessed with a sharp legal mind, unwavering confidence, and a commanding presence in court. When Paul addressed the court he could be heard across the entire court estate. Whether addressing magistrates, judges, or colleagues, Paul always seemed completely relaxed and at home.

The nickname “Silver Spoon” was one I gave him many years ago. It was not because he came from privilege (although he did a bit), but because Paul was, quite simply, the poshest person I ever knew. His manner, voice, vocabulary, and bearing were so impeccably refined that he often seemed posher than the King himself. Paul embraced the nickname with good humour, and it became a term of affection among those who knew him.

Paul began his legal career in London as a Magistrates’ Court Clerk before embarking upon a distinguished career in criminal law. For most of his professional life he practised as a self-employed solicitor advocate, valuing his independence and building a reputation for excellence through his own ability and hard work but mostly because few would employ him. More recently, he brought his considerable experience to Williamsons Solicitors, continuing to serve clients and colleagues with the same dedication that had characterised his entire career. I once asked Paul why it was that he’d chosen to practise criminal law. He replied simply that if he wasn’t defending them he would inevitably be the defendant. It summed him up beautifully for me.

Paul was a lawyer of great skill and integrity. He understood criminal law instinctively and possessed the advocacy talents that cannot be taught. Clients trusted him, colleagues respected him, and opponents knew they were facing someone who was always thoroughly prepared and unafraid to fight his clients corner.

Yet those who knew Paul best will remember far more than his professional achievements. They will remember his wit, his stories, his intelligence, his friendship, and the unmistakable loud presence he brought into every room. He could make people laugh, spark lively debate, and turn an ordinary conversation into something memorable. The legal profession has lost a talented advocate, but his friends have lost someone entirely irreplaceable.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of professional excellence, loyalty, friendship, and countless happy memories. The criminal courts of Hull and East Yorkshire have been quieter without him of late but his presence will no doubt live on. Those who knew him will miss him enormously.

In recent years, Paul spent the winter months in Corfu, Greece in the lovely village Agii Deka (Agioi Deka) which is a historic, traditional Corfiot village nestled on the eastern slopes of Mount Agii Deka. Famous for its spectacular panoramic island views, Cretan heritage, and connection to Oscar Wilde, it offered him a peaceful unspoiled experience into rural Ionian life. He often told me that he felt that it was his special place. He would spend many hours looking at the stunning views reading Oscar Wilde and having a go at penning his own poetry which wasn’t that bad as it goes.

Paul was determined to be accepted in the village so he began to master the language very well. He was very fond of Rosa’s home made wine. Once he’d consumed enough he would often break into Irish song. The locals would sing along with him.

It is with great sadness that I say farewell to Spoony.

You were one of a kind my dear friend. May the wine be as sweet as Rosa’s and flow just as freely.

Rest in peace.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

The freemen on land types going to have a field day with this lol

[Catherine Baksi @legalhackette]

The judges who were never officially sworn in - in @thetimes https://t.co/5KGWdHY0Ar

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@danbarker Food there excellent, went last week for a roast. Service a bit erm... iffy. I am informed that Old Simpsons used to be exactly the same... so tradition!

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@ASFleischman Done a few mediations in England, surprisingly effective on occasion. Waste of time in some, but even in the waste of time cases issues have narrowed a lot- side issues settled leaving THE BIG ONES for trial. I am a fan.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@Shiv_who_burns @GWilliamsLLM @ninifems So you DO HATE TOAST. :)

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@forwardnotback Lol. This new chap has been in local government, and on relevant committee in parliament. Although one hell of a time to be in post... new bill and massive reorganisation going on (which will fuck up, as they always do)

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@samdunningo @dc_lawrence There was refusal relying on exemptions following the earlier daft release of Kyle's ChatGPT. See FOI2025-00257 decided on 10 April 2025.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@forwardnotback Odds on starmer getting to end of year now 1/6. The Gov functions. He is going. Not wise by Labour MPs

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@tc1415 Considers a cheeky Miller II JR for fun....

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@danbarker Why carry 2 utility bills about?

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

How many times am I allowed to push the red button?

For context, I have been unexpectedly working today (UK public holiday when I would not normally have to) so not in the best of moods.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

I agree entirely, and I hope the FED defends them from the inevitable complaint, investigation and litigation

[TheMoustacheCop @CopMoustache]

@MirabelTweets1 @kt4ut So explain to us all then oh great self defence expert, what “proper restraint techniques” are we using against a man refusing release a knife after stabbing 2 people and still holding said knife, a wrist burn and perhaps a wedgie ?

[TheMoustacheCop @CopMoustache]

@MirabelTweets1 @kt4ut So explain to us all then oh great self defence expert, what “proper restraint techniques” are we using against a man refusing release a knife after stabbing 2 people and still holding said knife, a wrist burn and perhaps a wedgie ?

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@MercuriusFilius Extremely full.

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

So to clarify.... I can't get drunk at lunch now.... What wokery is this*

*Notes the Tesco lunch deal I often have has sadly lacked a glass of happiness for its entire existence :(

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@legalstyleblog What's the analysis of fox hunting legislation lol

[Mike @Fatcatdiet]

@RupertMyers @BenObeseJecty Thank you. I thought i recollected the line :)