Mid-size law firms embrace big ideas for future
Findings suggest firms who collaborate are more likely to innovate
Mid-size law firms are looking for big ideas and are focused on strategy, according to research carried out by LawNet, the collaborative non-profit network.
Research participants said they were focused on the big issues in their businesses and ranked opportunities to learn the latest leadership thinking from outside the legal sector as most important to achieving that.
Other top-five factors reported for the future success of firms were leading-edge approaches to financial management, quality processes and risk management culture. The findings also revealed that being open to collaboration can generate big gains.
“Law firm leaders can be cautious about sharing their ideas and concerns with peers in other firms,” said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston, “but being open-minded about the opportunities offered by collaboration can make a meaningful difference in terms of thinking and attitudes. We see some exciting examples across our network, with firms working together in areas from robotics through to HR.”
He added: “Openness encourages reciprocity. I can think of a case in our network of one firm sharing their experience in developing career pathways backed up by a competency framework, and the receiving firm sharing their ideas and experiences of outsourcing in return. Our members know they can speak very openly with their network peers in a non-competing environment, but there is a real opportunity for greater co-operation in the sector generally.”
The findings were drawn from a research project undertaken with LawNet’s 70-strong membership during February and March 2020, as part of the network’s audit process.
Drilling down, the findings were analysed by size of firm across the network. This showed that despite narrow variations in the ranking at different turnover levels, the top five factors remained constant across all the firms surveyed.
Explained member engagement and strategy director Helen Hamilton Shaw: “Our members tend to be in the £2m to £25m turnover range, which gives a coherent group for research purposes in a sector ranging from sole practitioner to Magic Circle, but it’s important for us to understand variations across the membership to tailor future support.
“There were some differences in ranking of future priorities, reflecting capacity of different size firms, but it was interesting to see the consistency across the network, with every size of firm saying that embracing big ideas was vital.
“Opportunity may play a part in that, as activities like our annual conference bring in international-class speakers from across the corporate world, beyond anything most firms could access otherwise. This often takes participants out of their comfort zone, introducing them to ideas that are not yet mainstream, but we find everyone welcomes the learning, even if only to understand what is coming.”
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Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 0207 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
There are currently some 70 member firms, ranging from £2m to £25m in turnover, giving a combined aggregate turnover in excess of £300m, equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice support, marketing, risk management and compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
LawNet scoops second industry award
A collaborative approach to learning and skills development in the legal sector has won member network LawNet a coveted national award.
Named winner of the Supporting the Industry Modern Law award 2020, this is the second time the collaborative non-profit network for independent law firms has scooped the accolade in the category for organisations with up to 25 employees.
The award was made to recognise the impact of the LawNet learning programme, which allows the 2500 lawyers across the network’s 70 independent law firms to access bespoke learning support in a collaborative setting, where open discussion can take place, including its Annual Conference, which brings together around 300 delegates each November.
Through a peer-to-peer environment, the network is able to deliver events tailored to the audience and at a level that could otherwise be inaccessible to many firms, with high calibre speakers and leading edge topics covered in a programme that is mainly free to access.
Over the last five years LawNet has invested £1.1m in delivering around 270 events with more than 5,500 delegates taking part. The wide-ranging programme includes technical legal and skills-based learning as well as business management events, all designed to challenge, inspire and motivate members to continually improve and raise the level of expertise across their firms, with topics tailored in response to feedback from members.
LawNet is a member-owned national network of 70 SME law firms located across the UK and
Ireland. The eight-strong head office team provides a wide range of benefits and services to member firms to support their business aims, with learning being a cornerstone of that package.
Pete Riddleston, LawNet’s director of learning & quality, explained: “Strategically, our learning programme is focused on growing a community of learners looking to share best practice and understand the latest thinking on the challenges they face. This demands a broad ranging programme, with topics that currently range across mental health and wellbeing, fraud and cyber security and sales skills.
“It’s important we support learners at different stages of their careers as well, whether that is through commercial awareness and time management for trainee solicitors and junior lawyers or introducing new managers and leaders to the essentials of running a successful law firm.”
The network previously won the Supporting the Industry award for its customer excellence programme, which supports its members through external measurement of the client experience to drive needs-based support and training. Firms use the results of regular client experience reviews and benchmarked client surveys to improve customer satisfaction and are audited through the network’s own ISO 9001 Quality Standard.
“The aim is a community of engaged, reflective learners rather than simply complying with regulatory requirements and we continually build our programmes in response to member input. We want to inspire our members to engage with new thinking and ideas to ensure the future success of their firms,” said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston.
“We know that being the best in every way – whether through skills, client service or process – is what sets LawNet firms apart and helps to keep them out in front in today’s competitive market. We’re committed to developing services that help our members succeed and pooling resources enables them to achieve more in an affordable way. That ethos is reflected in our learning provision, which is largely free as it is funded through the annual member contributions, and is regularly cited as one of the biggest benefits of membership.”
Links to download pictures:
Picture caption:
The LawNet team pictured at the awards evening, left to right, George Coombes, Chris Marston, Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Graham Ford, Ross Lobley, Pete Riddleston
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For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 0207 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 70 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Ashtons in top slot at 30th anniversary awards
East Anglian firm Ashtons Law secured the top slot in this year’s LawNet awards, with the success of their six-year cultural transformation strategy seeing them named Law Firm of the Year.
The annual awards recognise innovation and strategic success achieved by LawNet’s SME law firm members, as well as highlighting individuals and teams who are delivering outstanding business results. This year, more than 270 delegates joined the event, from across the 70 member firms, in the network’s 30th anniversary year.
Said Ed O’Rourke, CEO of Ashtons Legal: “It’s great to have recognition of the work we have done over the last six years. It’s been a big journey which continues, with cultural change at the heart. A true team effort, the whole firm has contributed to the achievement recognised here.”
Major developments have focused on Ashtons Legal’s culture, working environment and the customer journey. This calculated approach towards sustained organic growth has paid dividends with the Top 200 firm boosting both turnover and profit, moving from £15m turnover in 2013 to £21m in 2019.
Ed O’Rourke added: “This is a hard-fought award each year, so we knew we would need a stand-out performance given the calibre of other LawNet members. We are delighted to have won.”
Winner of the Young Lawyer of the Year was Jamie Apted of Edinburgh firm MBM Commercial LLP, who was described by his firm as embodying a true entrepreneurial spirit. Promoted to senior solicitor just six months after qualifying, his CV includes advising Scotland’s first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, as well as supporting the firm’s business development and community activity.
And Team of the Year went to the Holiday & Residential Parks team at Devon-based Tozers LLP, which has established itself as a leading force in the sector, which included representing the industry association successfully at a Judicial Review.
Outstanding Individual Contribution was awarded to Ron Davison, managing director of Gamlins Law Limited, who has taken the lead in building an innovative, sustainable regional law firm in North Wales, with a clear succession plan.
Best Business Development and Marketing went to West Country-based Wollens for their work in managing a rebrand to support the development of the firm following two significant mergers in 2018.
The Excellence in Client Care award went to Norfolk firm Ward Gethin Archer Ltd for placing the client at the core of the business, using continual feedback to develop staff and business direction, which helped the firm to top the ReviewSolicitors UK rankings in 2019.
Best Community Contribution went to Farnfields LLP based in Dorset and Wiltshire, for their local community programme, designed to tackle the impact of rural isolation on health and wellbeing, particularly in farming communities.
Biscoes Legal Services Ltd took this year’s LawNet Enterprise Award, which recognises the firm that embodies the LawNet spirit of excellence, learning and continual improvement through its ethos and culture.
Said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston:
“Our network maintains high barriers to admission, which is by invitation, so being a winner at our national awards is a real achievement. This year’s entries were outstanding, showcasing the way our member firms are taking on the challenges of today’s legal market head-on, embracing innovative ways of working, enthusing their people and delighting their clients.
“LawNet has evolved continually since its formation in 1989, and that’s how we’ve managed to remain relevant and valuable to our members for 30 years. LawNet member firms know they can achieve so much more through collaboration than they ever could alone.”
The award winners:
Law Firm of the Year, sponsored by Wilkinson Read & Partners: Ashtons Legal
Team of the Year, sponsored by Oosha Ltd: Holiday & Residential Parks team at Tozers LLP
Young Lawyer of the Year, sponsored by Moneypenny: Jamie Apted of MBM Commercial LLP
Outstanding Individual Contribution, sponsored by Tikit: Ron Davison of Gamlins Law Limited
Best Community Contribution, sponsored by Lloyds Bank: Farnfields LLP
Excellence in Client Care, sponsored by insight6: Ward Gethin Archer Ltd
Best Business Development & Marketing, sponsored by Conscious Solutions: Wollens
The Enterprise Award, sponsored by T-Impact Ltd: Biscoes Legal Services Ltd
Click to download the full high-res version from Flickr Pictured, the LawNet Award winners 2019 |
Click to download the full high-res version from Flickr Pictured, the LawNet Award winners 2019 |
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 0207 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 70 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Trust trumps cost when clients choose a law firm
Biggest-ever sector research reveals client motivations and highlights the cultural shift needed by firms to match growing expectation
Price transparency rules require law firms to open their costings and credentials to greater scrutiny, but reputation and trust are the most important factors when it comes to choosing a firm, according to benchmarked consumer-facing research.
The findings are drawn from the biggest-ever client experience research project conducted in the legal sector, with almost 70,000 satisfaction surveys and 5,000 anonymous experience reviews undertaken during the past six years by LawNet, the collaborative non-profit network for independent law firms, as part of its ISO 9001 audited Excellence Mark.
The responses showed that just 4% of new business is won on price, with two-thirds generated through reputation and trust – comprised of 30% from existing clients, 19% by recommendation and 17% because of the people or character of the firm.
When it came to cost, more important to clients than the price quoted was understanding how charging worked. They also wanted to know the benefits of using the firm and to be kept updated as work progressed, highlighting the need for firms to tackle negotiating and sales skills, as well as strong client reporting.
This reflects findings by the Law Society suggesting buyers cannot differentiate between firms, yet only 28% of firms in national benchmarked surveying[1] explain why a client should choose them. Similarly, SRA research shows 95% percent of lawyers think they explain the charging system clearly at the outset, but only 70% of clients agree[2].
“Many lawyers see negotiating as part of their core skill set, yet our research suggests there is often a skills gap when it comes to talking about costs with clients,” said Helen Hamilton-Shaw, LawNet member engagement & strategy director. “But it is an issue that responds well to targeted action, once firms know they need to develop skills. Across the network, the way that walk-in enquiries are handled has improved by 24% in the past four years, and the way that staff handle a potential sales lead, by asking for permission to follow up on the enquiry, has shown a massive 41% improvement.”
The Excellence Mark is an integral part of the LawNet ISO 9001 standard and the measure by which client service is audited across all member firms. Delivered and measured through independent providers, the resulting knowledge is used to guide improvements, training and future development.
Added Hamilton-Shaw: “We have clear evidence that this process of measurement and support can drive significant performance improvements in firms. LawNet firms are almost 20% ahead of the sector in delivering the sales experience needed to drive new business and 13% ahead in terms of overall client satisfaction, and this follows through into their business outputs.”
Those figures are drawn from the anonymously-conducted experience reviews, where overall performance by LawNet firms increased by 15% from 2013 to 2019. This now stands at 67%, compared with 58% across the rest of the sector[3]. At headline level, overall satisfaction recorded in the benchmarked surveying across all firms stood at 89% in 2012-13. Following targeted action, this now stands at 97%, which is 13% higher than the sector as a whole, according to the LCSP Tracker Survey 2018.
With the rise of online reviews and peer-to-peer recommendations, the survey process is now integrated with ReviewSolicitors to encourage customers to leave comments. Firms are supported in developing the techniques necessary to manage these publicly-posted reviews and currently LawNet members dominate the rankings on the review website[4].
Also measured is the all-important indicator of whether a client would recommend the firm they have used to others and 95% of clients across the network say they would recommend the LawNet firm they used.
Said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston: “We developed our audited Excellence Mark because we saw client-focused service as the most important way our law firm members could add value and differentiate themselves, whilst retaining their independence, individual identity and brand. Six years on, the evidence speaks for itself.”
LawNet’s publication TARGETING EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: clients | employees | service covering the research and learning is available as a White Paper : http://bit.ly/LawNetClientExperience
HOW IT WORKS:
Regular client experience reviews are a requirement for all members, with independent researchers acting as potential clients to interact with firms. Researchers use the telephone, unscheduled walk-in, web contact, live chat, bots and out-of-hours routes to make their enquiries, with samples being taken across different departments throughout the year, equating to a monthly check-in, but avoiding any regular pattern that firms could identify and respond to. Firms receive one-to-one feedback and in-practice training to support findings.
Client feedback is captured through online satisfaction questionnaires, delivered independently through an online portal, measuring strengths and weaknesses, fee earner performance and overall satisfaction levels. While performance is benchmarked against fellow LawNet members and other firms taking part nationally, firms are offered increasing personalisation to enable tracking of specific issues and initiatives, including an option to share client feedback on the ReviewSolicitors website.
Click here to download PDF of White Paper and images
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 0207 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 70 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
[1] insight6 : legal sector client experience benchmarking, 2019
[2] LawNet 2019
[3] insight6 : Client Journey Programme, 2019
[4] ReviewSolicitors rankings September 2019: LawNet firms hold two of the top three rankings, six of the top 10 and 11 of the top 20.
Recruitment is greatest challenge for law firms
Recruitment is the most pressing challenge for mid-size independent law firms according to benchmarked research, which showed almost a quarter of the firms surveyed ranked it their biggest issue, over efficiency and process, data management or partner performance management.
The results were drawn from the annual LawNet financial benchmarking survey, which is undertaken independently by the specialist legal team at PKF Francis Clark. Each year, members are asked a range of questions in various areas including financial performance, people structure, financing and practice management issues.
The resulting financial and management information is merged with insight on the financial health of the whole UK legal sector to enable firms to compare their own performance with similar firms in the member network and beyond.
Andrew Allen, who heads the legal sector team at PKF Francis Clark said: “Benchmarking helps firms see trends and we combine that with suggestions to aid decision making, so it is based on reliable data and focused on improving future financial strategic thinking and planning.”
He added: “The underlying message from the survey in 2018 is clear; firms are most concerned about attracting and retaining the best people to deliver services to clients, while operational effectiveness on a day-to-day basis comes in behind.”
Chris Marston, chief executive at LawNet added: “Benchmarking is not just about knowing what’s happening today; the long-term value is in how it focuses attention and drives action in key areas, such as reducing lock up, where we’ve seen impressive progress across our member firms in recent years.”
He added: “There’s real value in being able to see how your firm’s performance compares specifically with your peers, as well as the sector at large.”
.
- The questionnaire was completed by members of LawNet from July to September 2018, covering a range of questions in various areas including financial performance, people structure, financing and practice management issues at Q3/2018. Survey participants were also asked to comment on the greatest challenges for the future in their respective firms and asked to rank their three choices in order of greatest significance, with 23% saying recruitment was their biggest challenge. Insights into the overall UK legal sector are also compiled by PKF Francis Clark.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 020 7 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 70 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
PKF Francis Clark’s specialist legal team advise over 100 law firms across the UK from sole practitioners to some of the UK’s largest law firms.
Celebrating its Centenary year, chartered accountants and business advisers PKF Francis Clark has annual revenue of £45 million, a team of more than 700 people and 55 partners. The award-winning firm has seven offices across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire. PKF Francis Clark is a member of PKF UKI which is ranked 11th in the Accountancy Age 2017 survey of top accountancy firms and the fastest growing in the Top 20.
Scottish firm scoops top LawNet award
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| Click to download the full high-res version from Flickr
Pictured, the LawNet Award winners 2018 |
Click to download the full high-res version from Flickr
Pictured, the LawNet Award winners 2018 |
Edinburgh firm MBM Commercial LLP set the pace for innovation in this year’s LawNet awards, with the results of an ambitious three-year strategic plan seeing the firm named Law Firm of the Year.
Top performing firms and outstanding individuals from across the country were recognised at the annual awards ceremony, which brought together 270 delegates from across the 71 firms that make up LawNet.
Now in its eleventh year, the awards recognise innovation and strategic success achieved by the network’s independent law firm members, as well as highlighting individuals who are delivering outstanding business results.
Said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston: "Each year, the entries across our nominated award categories paint a vivid picture of how dynamic firms in the mid-market are squaring up to the future. The sector continues to face many challenges in today’s fast moving political, economic and consumer environment, but we see our member firms actively embracing change and being truly innovative in their strategies.
“This year’s Law Firm of the Year posted a record financial performance underpinned by a stand-out strategy with a razor-sharp focus on being the best law firm in its chosen markets. Key to that success is its concentration on encouraging all of its staff to be the very best they can.”
The strategic plan delivered by MBM Commercial LLP saw the firm expand service lines, increase staff by more than 40 percent, open a new office in central London and deliver powerful financial results that included a 70 percent increase in turnover and a 25 percent increase in average income per fee earner.
Said Cat MacLean, partner of MBM Commercial LLP: “Exceptional standards and a commitment to quality are the criteria for membership of LawNet, so recognition within this group of excellent law firms makes the award very special.
She added: “We’re quite a small firm but being able to have available to us all that comes through LawNet membership is tremendous and has undoubtedly contributed to our achievements. In particular, we greatly value the learning and development opportunities it gives us access to.”
Winner of the Young Lawyer of the Year was Mark Meleady of Devon firm Tozers Solicitors LLP, who was nominated for his outstanding technical ability, winning praise from clients and colleagues alike, and an entrepreneurial mindset, which has included building a new branch office team from scratch.
And Team of the Year went to the Historic Abuse Team at Portsmouth firm Verisona Law, which has demonstrated outstanding results after harnessing new technology and involvement in charity and community initiatives to support their work securing justice for clients in the most difficult of circumstances. Adam Bullion of InfoTrack who sat on the judging panel said: “It’s a difficult subject, and the team demonstrated the delicate balancing act of supporting clients whilst ensuring organic growth of the firm.”
Outstanding Individual Contribution was awarded to sales director Neil Lloyd of FBC Manby Bowdler LLP, who has spearheaded new technologies, management systems and structure. He has helped to reshape the West Midlands-based business, increasing turnover and profit, and embedding innovative people management initiatives.
Best Business Development and Marketing went to regional heavyweight Ashtons Legal for their blend of strategic vision and creativity, which has seen the firm building a presence in a range of niche markets nationally alongside their core East Anglian geographic area services.
The Excellence in Client Care award went to VWV, for a strategy that makes client care a key deliverable, embedded through an appraised set of objectives and a training requirement for every single member of staff at its offices across Bristol, Birmingham and London.
Best Community Contribution went to Gamlins Law Limited. Recognising the part played by its local community in recent growth and commercial success, it launched an ambitious campaign designed to give something back, with staff from across its North Wales offices encouraged to get involved in their community in any way they wished. It has seen initiatives ranging from legal clinics to lifeboat volunteering, an enterprise and support network for women running small businesses, and a commitment to reducing plastic waste, generating over 1,000 hours of volunteering and over £1 million pro-bono advice.
This year’s LawNet Enterprise Award, which recognises the firm which has made the biggest contribution in participating in the network over the year, went to Gardner Leader LLP, also celebrating their 25th anniversary as LawNet members.
The award winners:
Law Firm of the Year : MBM Commercial LLP : Sponsored by Wilkinson Read & Partners
Team of the Year : Verisona Law, Historic Abuse team : Sponsored by InfoTrack
Young Lawyer of the year : Mark Meleady of Tozers Solicitors LLP : Sponsored by Moneypenny
Outstanding Individual Contribution : Neil Lloyd (FBC Manby Bowdler LLP) Sponsored by Tikit
Best Community Contribution : Gamlins Law Limited : Sponsored by Lloyds Bank, Commercial Banking
Best Business Development / Marketing : Ashtons Legal : Sponsored by Conscious Solutions
Excellence in Client Care : VWV : Sponsored by insight6
LawNet Enterprise award : Gardner Leader LLP : Sponsored by T-Impact Ltd
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 020 7 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 71 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Collaboration key in facing up to sector change
Collaboration is a defining factor for future-focused law firms, says independent law firm network LawNet, responding to research that showed one-fifth of the profession acknowledge their firms are not keeping pace with sector change.
Following the publication of the 2018 Bellwether report from LexisNexis UK, LawNet chief executive Chris Marston has pointed to the importance of focused support for independent firms, saying it’s vital in today’s climate that leaders can access fresh thinking and structured management support.
He said: “Growth-minded independent firms with an eye on future performance are looking for help in shaping their future, not just better buying power. Certainly, that’s the feedback we get from our existing members and it’s what attracts new firms to join.”
“We want to equip our member firms with cutting edge strategic leadership and management tools, so that they can identify solutions and the necessary resources to stay ahead. As a group with combined revenues of more than £300 million, we’re well placed to source and deliver insights, resources and fresh thinking in a way that just wouldn’t be possible for most firms, with limited budgets and so many big issues to grapple with.”
He added: “Being able to network with like-minded firms has never been more valuable. There’s a peace of mind in sharing and finding that you’re not on your own, or sense checking some new thinking. Collaboration has to be the way ahead for independent firms, and our recent work in the areas of both AI and legal technology and in client experience has shown what firms can achieve together.”
The latest recruits to join LawNet are Barr Ellison LLP and Debenhams Ottaway LLP, creating a 72-strong membership.
Barr Ellison LLP has 55 staff at its Cambridge base. Alongside its private client offering, the firm has a renowned catastrophic personal injury team and in recent years has grown a substantial commercial property department. Robert Curry, managing partner,
said: “We have been growing at around 20% per year and while much of that growth is on the private client side, our main focus now is on developing our corporate offering. It currently represents about one third of our work, and our target is a 50/50 split in work streams. The drivers for our future growth will be advanced through our membership of LawNet.”
At Hertfordshire-based Debenhams Ottaway LLP, the firm has grown its team by 50% in the last seven years and now has 120 people. Recognised by the Legal 500, it has specialist teams in the charity, healthcare, private wealth, education and recruitment sectors, working with a client base across Hertfordshire and London.
Managing partner Susan Glenholme said: “We have a strong track record in client service, with our research showing that 99% of clients would use us again, and we will be building on this with the introduction of LawNet’s rigorous customer excellence mark audit and assessment.”
Marston added: “It’s interesting to see that both of our newest member firms have a 50/50 ratio of male and female partners. Debenhams Ottaway has been recognised as a ‘diversity pioneer’ in the sector[1] and Barr Ellison believes that attracting a diverse workforce has been key to its rapid organic growth, with female lawyers making up the greater part of the firm’s workforce. It’s forward thinking like this that sets our members apart.”
The profile of LawNet members is typically £2m - £25m turnover with membership by invitation. Firms joining must make a commitment to achieve the LawNet ISO9001 quality standard within two years, which incorporates the network’s customer-facing LawNet Excellence Mark programme. The ISO standard provides a direct route to dual accreditation with the Law Society’s Lexcel practice management standard.
[1] The Lawyer
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 020 7 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 72 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
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[1] The Lawyer
LawNet hits new membership high
LawNet, the collaborative, non-profit network for independent law firms, has announced a record intake of new members, taking membership to 71 firms - the highest for 20 years.
Six new firms have joined during the past year, with the two most recent recruits being London-based William Sturges and Martin Tolhurst Solicitors in Kent, bringing the combined turnover of member firms to more than £300m.
Managing partner Richard Carter of Martin Tolhurst, which has 160 staff across six offices, said: “We were delighted to join a group that had impressed us from afar. We like the fact that the network is member-owned and will support our firm in building our own brand. We are keen to get involved in the excellent training programme and the collaborative approach with like-minded law firms is already evident from our first few days of membership.”
At Westminster-based William Sturges, with just under 50-staff, managing partner James Hannon said: “As a firm we want to make greater efficiencies, and membership will give us access to resources that would otherwise be out of reach to a firm of our size. We expect to see benefits in helping us manage risk, satisfy regulatory requirements and reduce our professional indemnity premiums, as well as giving us marketing and other expertise at a level that we could not otherwise expect to have in-house. The opportunity to share ideas and best practice with leaders in other progressive firms is also very attractive.”
LawNet chief executive Chris Marston added: “Growing the membership increases our influence and our buying power, which is vital for the future success of the network. But we will never lower the bar and any firm wanting to join LawNet must satisfy our stringent eligibility criteria and be a true fit in terms of quality and outlook.
“The new members who join us today are strong, independent, resourceful businesses who, despite being major players in their chosen geographical or sector markets, nonetheless see the value of being part of something bigger.
“They’re drawn to the collaborative, non-competing approach, which is so highly valued by our members.”
He added: “Our membership remains very stable, but consolidation in the sector has an inevitable impact, and we continue to be focused on identifying firms that may add to the mix, as well filling some geographic gaps."
LawNet membership is by invitation, typically to firms fitting the profile of £2m - £25m turnover who are prepared to commit to the LawNet ISO 9001 quality standard, which is mandatory for all firms and incorporates the network’s customer-facing LawNet Excellence Mark programme, through which LawNet firms measure the client experience using mystery shopping and client satisfaction surveys.
LawNet’s ISO 9001 quality standard also incorporates all the requirements of the Law Society’s Lexcel practice management standard, creating a direct route through which LawNet members can achieve dual accreditation.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 020 7 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 71 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
Spire’s strategy secures top slot at LawNet’s awards
Crowne Plaza Heythrop Park
©Steve Pope - Fotowales
Norfolk firm Spire headed the list of legal innovators recognised for their achievements in this year’s LawNet awards.
The best and brightest from across the country’s mid-size independent firms were recognised at the annual awards ceremony, which saw more than 200 lawyers from 71 firms come together.
Now in its tenth year, the awards recognise the UK's best law firms and lawyers who are driving innovation and delivering outstanding business results.
"Each of the seven nominated award categories was keenly contested and all those shortlisted were outstanding, demonstrating they are among the best in the sector, and leading the way in facing up to the rapidly changing environment we face," said LawNet chief executive Chris Marston.
Spire Solicitors LLP was named LawNet Law Firm of the Year. A four-year strategic plan has seen three Norfolk firms across eight offices blended to create a major new regional player. Significant investment has established the necessary infrastructure, financial standing and team to enable the new firm to springboard future development and overcome declining local markets faced by smaller firms.
Said Alisdair Liddle, managing partner of Norfolk-based Spire LLP: “We have merged three firms and that’s quite a big challenge. It’s been a successful merger and we have an environment where people are positive and proactive, which reflects on the first-class service we serve to our clients on a daily basis. Without these founding business values across our firm, as well as the energy each member of staff has towards delivering outstanding advice and quality of service, achievements like this wouldn’t be possible.”
He added: “From my long involvement with LawNet, going back nearly 26 years, I know just how good our fellow finalists are, so to be selected as Law Firm of the Year is a real honour; it means a lot to us.”
Winner of the Young Lawyer of the Year was Rachael Gamble of Cleaver Fulton Rankin Ltd in Belfast, already a recommended individual in the UK Legal 500 and a well-regarded litigator with a busy Chancery practice.
Best Digital Presence went to East Anglian based Ashtons Legal for their continued digital commitment, with a sophisticated multi-channel strategy working seamlessly to support their aim of being more accessible to prospects, clients, referrers and business contacts.
Stamp Jackson & Procter Ltd from Hull collected the Excellence in Employee Engagement for its latest initiative, which has seen its personal injury department taken through a cultural shift to enable the team to lead a reputation-led approach to future business development, as the department moves away from direct advertising.
The Excellence in Client Care award went Clarkson Wright & Jakes Ltd in Kent for their work in delivering exceptional customer service through a relentless drive for improvement and creative client service initiatives.
Best Community Contribution went to Tozers Solicitors LLP in the South West for its CSR strategy, which has been a game-changer in securing staff engagement and extending the firm’s reach in its local community.
And Team of the Year went to the Employment & HR Team at MLP Law Ltd in the North West, for a three-year strategic growth plan that has seen a 300% increase in turnover and a six-fold increase in fee earners.
LawNet chairman, Kim Carr, managing partner of Midlands-based FBC Manby Bowdler, added: “We have an outstanding set of innovators within the LawNet network and the awards celebrate all that makes our firms distinctly different.”
The award winners:
Law Firm of the Year Spire Solicitors LLP : Sponsored by Wilkinson Read & Partners
Team of the Year Employment & HR Team, MLP Law Ltd : Sponsored by STL
Young Lawyer of the year Rachael Gamble, Cleaver Fulton Rankin Ltd : Sponsored by Landmark Information Group
Excellence in Employee Engagement Stamp Jackson & Procter Ltd : Sponsored by Tikit
Best Community Contribution Tozers Solicitors LLP : Sponsored by Moneypenny
Best Digital Presence Ashtons Legal : Sponsored by Conscious Solutions
Excellence in Client Care Clarkson Wright & Jakes Ltd : Sponsored by Shopper Anonymous
Most active LawNet member Gepp & Sons Solicitors
LawNet Award winners 2017 : To download a high res image: click here
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 020 7 846 0096 Mobile: 0797 3767 602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Member Engagement & Strategy Director, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms could access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise.
All members share a commitment to excellence and must achieve and maintain LawNet’s own ISO.9001 standard and the associated Mark of Excellence in client service.
The combined aggregate turnover of the 71 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £300m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £25m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – learning, networking, PII, practice development, marketing, compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PII cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.