Mike Jones’ journey from Thames Polytechnic to King’s Counsel (KC) is an inspiring story of ambition and dedication.
His experiences at Thames Polytechnic not only shaped his career, but also instilled in him a commitment to making the legal profession more accessible to future generations.
Mike’s decision to attend Thames Polytechnic was driven by curiosity. The institution’s prospectus immediately caught his attention. Its depiction of diverse campuses and a wide array of courses presented a world far removed from his hometown in Wales, igniting his desire for new experiences.
Upon arriving at the Avery Hill campus, Mike was struck by the stark contrast between his new surroundings and the world he had known. Despite living in the smallest room on campus, Mike found a thriving social life and sense of community which was strong, and it wasn’t long before he felt at home.
Mike fondly recalls the unique culture at Avery Hill, particularly the “Witch” pond, a focal point of student life where many would end up after a night at the campus bar. Mike also remembers the Woolwich campus, for having its own charm and lively atmosphere which added to the student experience.
Initially drawn to the Humanities course, he decided to switch his focus, and with the guidance of one of his lecturers, Mike transitioned to the Economics programme, a move that ultimately set the stage for his future legal career.
A chance conversation with a friend whose father was a barrister introduced Mike to the legal profession. A mini pupillage at a barrister’s chambers soon followed, where he discovered a passion for the courtroom’s performance aspect. In 1992, as Thames Polytechnic became the University of Greenwich, Mike graduated with honours.
After completing the Common Professional Examination (CPE) at the Polytechnic of Wales in Pontypridd, Mike moved to London to study for the bar at the Inns of Court School of Law. He joined the Middle Temple Inn of Court, following in the footsteps of friends, and secured a pupillage in Swansea.
Mike’s proudest professional milestones include his call to the bar and becoming Queen’s Counsel in 2018 (now King’s Counsel after King Charles III ascended the throne in 2023). In 2021, Mike was appointed a Bencher at Middle Temple, a senior role in governance.
"There are days in this job, when you're coming home on the train and you think, oh, this is the worst job in the world. Why am I doing this? And then there's other times where you come away and you just think this is the best job in the world and it's a privilege to be in it.”
Mike is acutely aware of the challenges faced by aspiring barristers. Financial barriers and misconceptions about the profession’s accessibility are significant hurdles. Mike is committed to breaking down these barriers. He believes that the legal profession has become more diverse and accessible, and he encourages young people from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams with perseverance and authenticity.
Looking ahead, Mike advocates for increased funding for the criminal justice system, emphasising the need for a balanced investment that supports both victims and the accused.
