Leading lady : Kim Carr named as new chair of LawNet
West Midlands lawyer Kim Carr of FBC Manby Bowdler has been named as the new chairman of LawNet, the independent law firm network.
The first woman to hold the role in the network’s 26 year history, LawNet says her leadership of the member-run board will be key to the network’s strategy and future growth plans.
FBC Manby Bowdler LLP was a founder member of LawNet in 1989 and the 29-partner firm employs over 160 staff at five offices across the West Midlands and Shropshire. Alongside its professional rankings in the Legal 500 and Chambers, it was named firm of the year in 2014 by its regional Law Society and has regularly appeared in the Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For listings under Kim’s stewardship.
Kim Carr has been managing partner of the firm since 2005, joining the firm as a trainee and heading the private client department, before leading the merger of FBC Solicitors with Manby Steward Bowdler LLP in 2008. She was named LawNet managing partner of the year in 2012.
Said Kim Carr: “It’s a great opportunity for me to play a part in the network’s future development. There are big challenges in the sector, with consolidation continuing, but it’s a time that offers LawNet firms huge opportunities, if we are commercially focussed and differentiate ourselves. I believe outstanding customer service lies at the heart of that.
“As an independent firm we have always seen big benefits in being part of the LawNet family and I’ll be working with the board and the team at LawNet HQ to see how we can build on that strength for our members, as we grow the network.”
Welcoming Kim to the role, LawNet chief executive Chris Marston said: “It’s great news for the network that Kim has agreed to take on this key role. We’ve seen our network grow over the past year, and our proposition remains rooted in supporting firms to deliver great customer service, providing high quality learning and keeping the lid on PII premiums through a strong risk management culture.
“We’ve got big ambitions for the future, constrained only by the number of firms that will match up to our selection criteria.”
The LawNet network was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, mutually-owned national network where independent law firms can access big firm resources and benefit from collective purchasing, shared knowledge, best practice and expertise. As well as quality and risk management accreditation, the network provides training in legal practice and management skills, marketing support and access to a range of office support services. It also provides a group professional indemnity insurance scheme for members.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, 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 income of the 67 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £20m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, practice development, marketing and compliance. It currently places over £1bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
www.lawnet.co.uk
Twitter: @LawNetUK
About FBC Manby Bowdler
FBC Manby Bowdler LLP is a 29 Partner award winning regional law firm focused on and committed to intelligently delivering stellar service to its customers.
The firm's approach is 'One Team' and is committed to delivering the greatest quality of service and advice possible. FBC Manby Bowdler's Client Charter explains the firm's promises to clients about the stellar service experience they can expect to receive.
FBC Manby Bowdler LLP is recognised in the 2015 Legal 500 Directory as a top tier Firm for Agriculture & Estates, Contentious Trusts & Probate, Family, Commercial Litigation and Planning.
For further information, please visit www.fbcmb.co.uk or follow the firm on Twitter @
New training head drives differentiated learning delivery
Specialist appointment will support the development of learning solutions for lawyers in the changing CPD landscape.
The law firm network LawNet is gearing up its training and development delivery with the appointment of a specialist head of learning, in a move designed to tackle any changes arising from the SRA’s current consultation on the future of CPD, which could see an end to the current hours-based approach.
The aim is to provide a wider range of solutions that will enable the lawyers that make up the 2000-strong membership to target their specific learning needs in different ways.
Peter Riddleston joins LawNet as head of learning, quality and development. A former lawyer, he has spent the last 11 years in professional training and development, including a stint at the College of Law and more recently with Landmark Information Group, where he developed their training programme for lawyers.
Leading developments for the network, he plans to add to its face-to-face training programme with the addition of extended online and interactive learning opportunities, alongside more member-led content. There will also be increased emphasis on drawing in delivery from other providers, to expand the offering with differentiated products designed to more closely match the needs of practitioners at different stages of experience, and for those moving into different roles, such as leadership.
He said: “We have a very good face-to-face offering, much of which is free at the point of delivery, and highly valued by the members, but I will be looking to build across the whole range to reflect the changing demands of the profession, drawing in new suppliers and providers to build a differentiated range suitable for members with varied training needs. What also stands out is the huge amount of knowledge and experience within the membership, and I will be looking at how that can be harnessed and shared to enhance our overall learning programme and provide members with tailored learning opportunities.”
He added: “The landscape for CPD training and development is at a crossroads. The response to the SRA’s consultation will guide the future direction, and this may involve a move away from an hours-based requirement towards satisfying demand shaped by an individual practitioner’s particular learning needs – what we need to do is help firms meet any new requirements by ensuring that our learning offering has their needs at its heart.”
Welcoming Riddleston to the network, John Thomas, chief executive of LawNet said: “Our learning programmes are a key component of what gels the network together, and our members quite rightly demand leading edge support. Peter’s past experience will play a vital role in enlarging our offering to existing members and new member firms joining the network.”
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, 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, non-competing 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 income of the 64 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, practice development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
Tough tactics secure awards for LawNet firms
Download images by clicking here
The hard-hitters were out in force at this year’s LawNet awards, with the winning firms all showcasing strategies that are putting them out in front.
Leading the winners by scooping the Law Firm of the Year Awards were London and South East firm Matthew Arnold & Baldwin LLP in the 16+ partner category and Bath based Mogers Solicitors LLP taking the award for Law Firm of the Year with up to 15 partners.
Announcing the awards, John Thomas, chief executive of LawNet, the long-standing law firm network for mid-size independent firms, said: “Entrants this year were exceptional, across the country and from very different sized firms. It seems none of our members are waiting for the changes in the sector to hit them – they’re all out there, driving forward new customer-facing initiatives and strengthening their internal processes.”
Matthew Arnold & Baldwin has tripled turnover during the past three years and is just shy of a Top 100 listing on turnover. They’ve already achieved a profit per equity partner ratio that puts them in the Top 20 with a strategy that has seen them develop a national reputation for expertise in investment and retail banking litigation.
Said Clare Stothard, chair of the Matthew Arnold & Baldwin management board: “Winning awards such as this is testament to the stellar efforts of colleagues across the firm. Having put in place an ambitious strategy, with client service and commitment to outstanding legal advice at its heart, we are thrilled to have had our success recognised by LawNet.”
In Bath, Mogers has achieved its best ever annual turnover and net profit, with residential matters up 50%, litigation by nearly 90% and departmental cross referrals up nearly 50%.
The LawNet Mark of Excellence Award went to Midlands-based FBC Manby Bowdler LLP for incorporating the new LawNet Mark of Excellence customer service standard at the heart of a cultural shift within the firm, that has seen them secure a coveted ranking in the national Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For.
Best Use of Technology went to Fidler & Pepper Solicitors for an innovative online solution to tenancy management for landlords, with a simple system for staying legally compliant whilst speeding up action on rent arrears.
Young Lawyer of the Year winner was Judith Rountree of Gardner Leader LLP who is making a name for herself with high level contentious probate work and a strong focus on business development activities for her firm.
Best Use of Social Media went to Ashton KCJ, with a winning strategy that has included Twitter and LinkedIn; Facebook advertising campaigns and YouTube information-style videos, backed up with training for lawyers to help them take part and all delivering tangible results for the firm.
The award for Excellence in Risk Management and Compliance went to Vanderpump & Sykes Solicitors for the second year running, recognising their continuing outstanding performance and approach to quality processes.
Added LawNet’s John Thomas: “Awards recognise the achievements of the firms, whose innovation provides a valuable contribution to the standing of the LawNet network, as well as recognising the staff who are behind these outstanding outcomes.”
ENDS
Best Use of Technology : Fidler & Pepper Solicitors : sponsored by Tikit
Best Use of Social Media : Ashton KCJ : sponsored by Conscious Solutions
Excellence in Risk Management & Compliance : Vanderpump & Sykes Solicitors LLP : sponsored by QBE
Young Lawyer of the Year : Judith Rountree, Gardner Leader LLP : sponsored by Sweet & Maxwell
LawNet Mark of Excellence Award : FBC Manby Bowdler LLP : sponsored by Shopper Anonymous and Law League
Law Firm of the Year (up to 15 partners) : Mogers Solicitors LLP : sponsored by Wilkinson Read
Law Firm of the Year (16 plus partners) : Matthew Arnold & Baldwin LLP : sponsored by Wilkinson Read
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, 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, non-competing 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 income of the 66 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, practice development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
LawNet leading the way in service delivery
Customer focus puts a smile on the face of the lawyers with a 92% satisfaction rating
LawNet members are reporting real results from a £300,000 initiative launched by the network to tackle the image of lawyers as aloof, arrogant and unapproachable.
The first of its kind for law firms, the initiative is focussed on helping the mid-size independent law firms that make up the LawNet network to stand out from the competition.
The package for member firms includes mystery shopping, online customer satisfaction questionnaires and customer service training, all designed to give lawyers lessons that are drawn from the retail sector.
LawNet’s Excellence Mark is wrapped up in a bespoke ISO standard and auditing system, so it’s robust and measurable, but designed to be more than a compliance straightjacket, according to LawNet, so as to add value for clients.
And the results to date run in the face of the latest survey from the Legal Services Board1 which suggested that consumers are likely to view legal professionals as intimidating and typically described them as ‘arrogant, disinterested or unapproachable’.
“Initial results certainly show that our firms are keeping clients happy,” said Helen Hamilton Shaw, director of services for LawNet. “We’re investing back into member firms with this initiative, which will see £300,000 being spent during the first three years.”
She added: “Research always hits the headlines about how bad solicitors are at communicating with their clients, that they’re arrogant, unapproachable and aloof, and we have set out to counter that by helping our members to embed a customer-centric approach and achieve a recognisable standard that clients can look out for.
“We can see that it’s working. The first results have shown a 92% satisfaction rate for friendliness and approachability, from customers of LawNet firms who have completed the online survey. Customers have asked for better communication and transparency on costs, so that’s what we’re measuring.”
All LawNet firms are independently audited as part of their ISO accreditation and the new Mark of Excellence will form part of all future auditing, to check that firms are keeping up with the terms of the LawNet customer charter, including completing customer satisfaction surveys, mystery shopping, response times, transparent costing, backed up by regular staff training and a focus on boosting internal morale.
ENDS
http://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/public-still-sees-lawyers-arrogant
1 https://research.legalservicesboard.org.uk/news/latest-research-3/
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, 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, non-competing 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 income of the 66 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, practice development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
Independents focus on putting clients first
Download photographs of the winners from Flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/lawnet/sets/72157632578411694/
Clients came out on top in this year’s LawNet awards, with the winning firms all showcasing strategies that put the customer first.
And the law firm network says it shows the step-change in the sector that’s being led by the mid-size independents that make up its membership.
The winner of Law Firm of the Year went to Manchester’s George Davies Solicitors LLP and Managing Partner of the Year was Kim Carr of Midlands firm FBC Manby Bowdler LLP, who has led the firm since 2008.
According to John Thomas, chief executive of LawNet: “George Davies stood out this year, with a range of initiatives tailored to improve service for their clients, combined with robust internal processes to keep employees on track with the business plan. The firm is delivering real results with a number of high profile cases and a real presence in the legal rankings, all backed up by strong financial performance. They’re forging their own opportunities and this is a firm that is going places.”
Speaking of managing partner winner Kim Carr, FBC Manby Bowdler senior partner Niall Blackie said: “Kim has been instrumental in the firm’s continued growth. She is an inspirational and accomplished leader and we are fortunate to have her directing our business.” Mrs Carr’s award follows hard on the heels of recognition in the most recent Legal 500 for the 35 partner firm, and “One To Watch” in the 2012 Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For survey.
Young Lawyer of the Year winner was Emma Atkins of Denison Till. Less than 2 years post-qualification she is already handling complex and high level cases in her area of specialisation. She has also taken the lead in the firm’s online and social media activity.
Best Business Development or Marketing Initiative went to Grindeys LLP, who recognised the importance of the role they play in their local community and set about developing a platform to bring together their pro-bono, charitable and fundraising activities, which has raised their profile and attracted new contracts.
Best website went to Ashton KCJ, winning for content development and site navigation that is focused firmly on the client and their needs.
The award for Excellence in Risk Management and Compliance went to Vanderpump & Sykes Solicitors, for initiatives designed to embed a compliance culture in the firm, including long term compliance planning, comprehensive firm-wide training programmesand risk registers.
And Matthew Arnold & Baldwin won the Commitment to Client Care award, for a range of initiatives that range from secondments and flexible pricing models, to relationship partners and free in-house legal surgeries and training for clients.
Added LawNet’s John Thomas: “The aim of these annual awards is to get to the heart of what makes a LawNet firm, with an innovative attitude that’s underpinned by a commitment to excellence and strong risk management. Every submission this year demonstrated how firms recognise the importance of creating meaningful client interactions, and that’s going to be a game changer in the years to come. ”
This year’s winners were:
2012 LawNet Law Firm of the Year award, sponsored by Voicepath.
George Davies Solicitors LLP
Managing Partner of the Year, sponsored by SSG Legal.
Kim Carr, FBC Manby Bowdler LLP
Young Lawyer of the Year, sponsored by Wilkinson Read & Partners
Emma Atkins, Denison Till
Best Business Development or Marketing Initiative, sponsored by Sweet & Maxwell
Grindeys LLP
Best Website, sponsored by Conscious Solutions
Ashton KCJ
Commitment to Client Care sponsored by TikitTFB
Matthew Arnold & Baldwin
Excellence in Risk Management and Compliance sponsored by QBE European Operations
Vanderpump & Sykes Solicitors
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk Twitter : @magtay
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk Twitter: @helenhshaw
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet:
LawNet was established in 1989 to enable a collaborative, non-competing 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 income of the 65 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, practice development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Twitter: @LawNetUK
Groups join forces to support solicitors in post-LSA environment
Two leading and long-established law firm membership groups have joined forces to provide their law firm clients with access to increased support in the post Legal Services Act environment.
360 Legal Group, which specialises in law firm management, structure and merger will provide acquisition and merger support to member firms of LawNet, a mutual and member-owned group which comprises independent law firms with between 6 and 39 partners and operates the legal market’s largest PI scheme. LawNet will reciprocate by providing 360 Legal Group members and clients with valuable support in quality, risk management and specialist training. Both sets of members will benefit from greater access to a large pool of potential merger partners, increased training, conference, event and networking opportunities and a vast choice of consultancy services.
Whilst both organisations will remain totally independent in their operations, they will be looking at ways to share resources, services and contacts to the benefit of their members. The organisations serve different audiences – with 360 Legal Group primarily working with progressive small to medium-sized law firms and LawNet working with mainly heavyweight independent firms – but both agree that there is huge potential to work more closely.
John Thomas, Chief Executive of LawNet says: “We are different organisations but both aim to ensure our members stay ahead of the competition, reduce costs, improve efficiencies and enhance profitability and we believe we can be stronger together. Working collaboratively, whilst retaining our individual identities, ensures our members enjoy the best of both worlds – the membership benefits and support they have always enjoyed, but with access to a greater level of contacts and services.”
“LawNet has built its reputation through the exacting standards placed on member firms, and is well aligned with our values here at 360 Legal Group, to be innovative, ambitious and forward-thinking.” adds 360 Legal Group Chief Executive Viv Williams.
cont …
“As the legal sector consolidates there will be merger, ABS and private equity opportunities for many. Others are looking to raise their game and build their business around “Brand Solicitor”. By sharing our expertise, knowledge and best practice we can offer an unrivalled level of support to help all members achieve their ambitions.”
Benefits to members are already being realised with LawNet firms taking part in 360 Legal Group’s February Merger and Consolidation Summit. The organisations are now focusing on new packages for those seeking to buy, sell or merge.
ENDS
Background Notes to Editors:
About 360 Legal Group:
Founded in July 2004, 360 Legal Group has become the largest membership organisation for legal businesses in the UK, growing steadily over the years in response to a growing need for efficiency and business skills amongst its members and the legal profession as a whole. It provides marketing, management and strategy solutions for law firms, helping lawyers to manage and market their practices more successfully as businesses, differentiate themselves from local competitors and overcome the challenges facing the profession. The Group also specialises in the merger and acquisition of legal practices.
Through its dedicated business consultancy service delivered through a nationwide team of advisors, 360 Legal Group further helps its clients on a one-to-one basis to recognise the sweeping changes being introduced by The Legal Services Act, understand the difficult and fast changing trading conditions in which law firms now operate and explore how to take advantage of forthcoming deregulation.
360 Legal Group members access free SRA authorised CPD seminars for an unlimited number of staff as part of membership, which starts from under £30 per month. Membership also includes a free practice review which revisits and updates business plans and objectives, an annual benchmarking report to enable members to get an overview of their organisation’s performance against other member practices, a quarterly e-zine to inform members about trends and developments in the legal sector, a telephone helpline and discounts of at least 20 per cent on all of 360 Legal Group’s consultancy services.
360 Legal Group, Tel: 01275 465540 Visit: www.360legalgroup.co.uk
For further information please contact:
Jacqui Southway Viv Williams
Jacqueline Southway PR 360 Legal Group
Tel: 01454 201869 / 07747 804703 Tel: 01275 465540 / 07879 999274
About LawNet:
The combined income of the 67 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, business development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Each year LawNet delivers over 60 CPD accredited learning events at venues throughout the UK, covering a wide range of technical legal updates, practice management and business development topics, including a leading-edge strategic leadership and management development programme. All the learning days are CPD accredited, many are provided as a free service within membership, and the member-defined programme ensures that topics tackle key issues affecting that particular area of practice.
All LawNet firms must achieve ISO 9001:2008 LawNet Quality Standard certification within two years of joining, and securing and maintaining that accreditation is a condition of membership. Through a unique agreement with the Law Society, firms can also secure and hold the Lexcel practice management standard and benefit from a simplified dual auditing process for the two marks, with the independent assessment delivered through LawNet.
Twitter: @LawNetUK Blog: http://thelawnetblog.wordpress.com/
For further information about LawNet, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, LawNet Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Newest member talks about why they chose LawNet
Ray Crudgington is managing partner of LawNet’s newest member firm, Grant Saw LLP in south east London – the fifth to join in the past 12 months.
Employing 20 lawyers and with five partners, Grant Saw provides legal services to a private and corporate customer base across south east London and the Docklands and has ambitions to significantly increase its share of commercial work.
Ray explains why they chose to join LawNet:
“Now seemed the right time to join LawNet for us. We’ve got serious ambitions to grow the firm and want to significantly increase our share of commercial work. By joining LawNet we see it as offering us an opportunity to grow, by learning from other larger firms, sharing resources and cutting our internal costs through group discounted services.
Over the last few years we have made a concerted effort to expand. We moved into some modern offices in 2003, got our first web site running in 2005 and then secured Lexcel in 2007. We did all that and then, like most of the sector, went into recession survival mode for a while.
But then you look around and see the changes coming in around ABS and everything that we’re all contending with and we started thinking about how strategic partnerships might provide value. We want to ramp up on both contentious and non contentious commercial work, and particularly company commercial, and need to find the route to achieve that.
We had had some discussions with LawNet once before, but we were in the process of merging with another firm and it didn’t feel the right time. We were in a state of change, not sure what we’d look like at the other end and certainly a smaller player by comparison with others in the network.
We investigated other networks and collaborative initiatives, and trialled one for a year to see how it might help our ambitions. In the end we reached the conclusion that it wasn’t going to be right for us.
So that’s when we came back to talk to LawNet. There are larger firms than us in the network, and that matches our aspirations. Seeing what we get, we were really impressed.
Lawnet appears to be lawyer driven. We like the not-for-profit model and the fact that any surplus gets ploughed back into member services. The collective bargaining power brings real cost benefits; and these are all firms that we wish to be associated with.
We want to be around bigger firms to learn from them. There’s a risk in being one of the larger fish in your own pond, that you start thinking the others on your patch are your competition, but you need to have a bigger picture and look at what is being done at the level where you are really competing.
We are very committed to best practice and think it is vital for our future success. Customer service is important – if we do things well, the client will see the benefit. But we need to explore new ways of doing things and that’s where it becomes important to speak with other law firms and other lawyers in a non competing environment. The chance to do that is limited elsewhere.
We want to share resources and grow. That’s what we’re looking to achieve by being part of LawNet."
Ray Crudgington: Managing Partner and Head of Commercial & Probate Departments at LawNet member firm Grant Saw LLP. Ray qualified as a solicitor in 1991 after graduating from Leicester University and training with a major City firm. Since qualifying he has dealt mainly with company/commercial work and commercial property. He joined Grant Saw at the end of 1997 following several years with a Central London firm and is the head of the firm’s commercial and probate departments. Ray is the Honorary Solicitor for the South East London Chamber of Commerce and a member of The Law Management Section of The Law Society.
Web: www.grantsaw.com
Twitter: @GrantSaw
Law firm network expands in south east
LawNet, the leading network for independent legal firms, has announced a further new member – Grant Saw LLP in south east London.
The firm is the fifth member to be announced in the last 12 months and the signing brings LawNet closer to its target of 80 firms in 2012.
Grant Saw provides legal services to a private and corporate customer base across south east London and the Docklands and has ambitions to significantly increase its share of commercial work.
“The major reason for joining LawNet was the opportunity it offered to grow, by learning from other larger firms, sharing resources and cutting our internal costs through group discounted services,” said managing partner Ray Crudgington, who also heads the commercial and probate departments. “We want to explore new ways of doing things and learn from others we respect. Best practice and customer service are both very important to us. We believe that if we do things well, the client will see the benefit.”
The firm secured Lexcel accreditation in 2007 but will now additionally work towards the LawNet ISO 9001:2008 quality standard.
Membership of the network is by invitation to those firms who fit the LawNet profile of £2m - £15m turnover and prepared to commit to securing and maintaining the LawNet quality standard, which is mandatory for all firms, with rigorous six monthly audits to ensure standards are held across the membership. Recently LawNet has reached an agreement with the Law Society to offer dual accreditation with the Lexcel mark, with reduced demand on resources through a special dual assessment programme.
LawNet chief executive John Thomas said: “We are well on track to achieve our growth plans in the geographic areas that remain to be covered through the network. We’re attracting members who can see the benefit of being part of something bigger. It’s not just about the discounted services, although cutting costs certainly helps everyone, but it’s about being focussed on strength through strategic growth.”
ENDS
316 words
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk
Notes to Editor:
About LawNet:
The combined income of the 68 firms comprising LawNet is currently in excess of £250m – equivalent to a UK Top 15 law firm – with members ranging from £2m to £15m turnover.
Independent research shows LawNet is most highly valued by members for delivering in six key areas – training, networking, PII, business development, marketing and compliance. It currently places some £1.2bn worth of PI cover alone for members each year, which helps stabilise premiums for firms.
Big change brings big opportunities according to mid size law firms
The changing legal services market offers big opportunities to mid size firms, according to managing and senior partners attending this year’s LawNet conference.
But the firms also said that if they were to benefit from the opportunities, they needed to develop a stronger strategy, must look at restructuring and would need to become more specialist.
Over 60% of the firms believe they need to be at least a third bigger, with a further 24% looking towards at least a doubling in size.
National brands, new styles of service delivery and price competition are seen as the biggest threats in the market.
And as the first reports reach the market of equity funding deals for legal firms, including the majority shareholding taken in the QualitySolicitors brand, almost 60% of LawNet firms said they would accept such non lawyer equity investment. And when asked what they would do with a £250,000 cash injection, the firms would be most likely to invest the money in brand development and business development, closely followed by hiring a professional CEO or other professional managers.
All the feedback from firms came through on the spot questions posed by speakers Nick Jarrett-Kerr and George Bull at the conference, tackling a range of key strategy issues, with instant feedback from the floor using audience response keypads.
The full list of topics surveyed and the responses:
|
Does your firm need to become more specialist to win higher value work in future? |
|
| Hardly at all, we have about the right mix |
13% |
| Nearly there just honing skills in a couple of areas |
24% |
| Made a start, work in progress |
43% |
| We are too generalist, all departments need to develop |
20% |
|
Does your firm need to grow over the next three to five years to remain competitive and profitable? |
|
| Hardly at all, we are just the right size |
16% |
| At least a third bigger |
59% |
| Double in size |
15% |
| More than double |
10% |
|
How would you describe the level of ambition amongst your partnership group? |
|
| Highly ambitious and entrepreneurial |
10% |
| Mainly focused on defending our current position and profitability |
34% |
| Cautious and comfortable |
4% |
| A complete mixture of views and levels of ambition |
52% |
|
If I were to invest £250,000 in your firm, what would you spend most of it on? |
|
| Laterally hiring more partners |
14% |
| Paying out non-performing partners |
9% |
| Hiring a professional CEO or other professional managers |
22% |
| Building IT infrastructure |
16% |
| Developing our brand and business development |
38% |
| Bigger offices |
1% |
|
Which one of these pressures is the greatest threat to the solicitors’ profession? |
|
| New entrants |
16% |
| Evolving client (customer) expectations |
7% |
| Price competition |
28% |
| New methods of service delivery |
22% |
| The power of brands and advertising |
24% |
| Consolidation |
3% |
|
Do you feel your firm’s strategy is adequate to meet the challenges of the new market? |
|
| Yes |
40% |
| No |
60% |
|
Over the next 3 years, do you expect that your firm will restructure in response to the LSA? |
|
| Yes |
61% |
| No |
39% |
|
If approached by a new investor, would your firm accept non-lawyer equity investment? |
|
| Yes |
59% |
| No |
41% |
|
The restructuring of the legal market is going to bring big opportunities for my firm: |
|
| I agree |
80% |
| I disagree |
8% |
| I don’t know |
6% |
| I’m going to retire |
6% |
Mid size firms square up with technology solutions
Niche markets and new technology solutions were the big story for this year’s LawNet awards.
And the leading law firm network says it represents a bullish attitude to change in the sector from the mid-size independents that make up its membership.
Top awards went to Buckles Solicitors LLP in the East of England, winning Law Firm of the Year, and Managing Partner of the Year for Mark Hovell at Manchester’s George Davies Solicitors LLP.
Buckles Solicitors LLP scooped the award after racking up a list of achievements during the year under the leadership of managing partner of Colleen Gostick, including a strategic refocusing of the business into key specialist teams, who said: “Our culture is about valuing strong, long-term client relationships and our portfolio of services is designed to clearly distinguish us from our competitors. Acting for a number of national and international household names and drawing clients from across East Anglia, the Midlands and beyond, we are well on our way to becoming a regional heavyweight firm.”
Other innovations for Buckles included strategic alliances with other niche practices designed to build its competitive advantage in key target sectors; late night and Saturday opening hours for clients; and internal IT improvements which include a desktop key performance indicator dashboard for fee earners.
According to John Thomas, chief executive of LawNet: “Buckles stood out. These were real innovations, not just window dressing, and combined with a strong financial performance, it’s placed the firm in an excellent position to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Manchester’s George Davies Solicitors LLP nominated Mark Hovell for Managing Partner of the Year, citing his inspirational approach and fearless attitude to change. Lindsey Farrelly, solicitor and business development manager, who submitted the nomination, said: “He brings out the best in people. There’s a real buzz across the firm.”
Headlining Hovell’s achievements was his relocation of the firm from its old four storey offices to a modern open plan headquarters in the heart of the city, without increasing premises costs. The new location is credited with helping to draw high profile lateral hires into the firm over the past year, and improving cross referrals between departments. Hovell has also drawn international attention to the firm through his specialist sports practice and his role with the Court of Arbitration of Sport in Switzerland, which has included acting as independent arbitrator at the Commonwealth Games and World Cup.
He said: “We’re keen to remain an independent mid-size firm, so nurturing talent is crucial, whether it’s retaining young lawyers coming up through the firm or attracting the lateral hires we need to fill gaps and enable us to up our game plan in key sectors. Last year was tough, but this year’s figures are up 18% for the same period and pipeline is looking good.”
From Bath, Mogers Solicitors LLP won best business development initiative for allHR their new Amazon-style online human resource service which combines the skills of the firm’s HR manager with its employment team. This online document store of HR policies, documents and letters, was designed for SME’s that were otherwise missing out on professional support. The firm says the new service has secured clients in new markets, as well as delivering added value to existing clients.
Two further awards recognised technological innovation amongst firms. For Clarkson Wright & Jakes, an overhaul of their website – with integrated social media, networking and webinars – has drawn a big increase in traffic. And at Fidler & Pepper in Nottinghamshire, their newly extended Super Case Tracker, an upgraded system giving real-time via the web and smartphones, won the award for best use of technology. Following on from being the first to develop online case tracking back in 1998, this was once again developed wholly in-house by the firm and has, they say, transformed the way information is accessed and displayed to clients.
IBB Solicitors in London were named for their outstanding client care, with a programme that has included a new after care strategy and new processes and training to help staff aim for excellence in every client interaction.
Added LawNet’s John Thomas: “This isn’t about handing out gongs. The real intent behind the awards is to recognise what’s valued within LawNet. For each category we’re looking for sustainable and measurable improvements, underpinned by strong risk management. This year’s submissions were exceptional in the range of new ideas, but all were clearly built on firm foundations.”
This year’s winners were:
Best use of Technology sponsored byTikitTFB
Fidler & Pepper Solicitors
Best Business Development/Marketing Initiative sponsored by thecabinetoffice
Mogers Solicitors LLP
Best Website sponsored by Conscious Solutions
Clarkson Wright & Jakes Ltd
Outstanding Client Care sponsored by Acuigen
IBB Solicitors
Managing Partner of the Year sponsored by Wilkinson Read & Partners
Mark Hovell, George Davies Solicitors LLP
Law firm of the Year sponsored by Voicepath
Buckles Solicitors LLP
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Press information:
Maggie Taylor, Prima PR & Marketing
Direct line: 01400 251557 Mobile: 0797 3767602 Email: maggie@primapr.co.uk Twitter : @magtay
Helen Hamilton-Shaw, Director of Services, LawNet
Direct line: 01926 834622 Email: hhamilton-shaw@lawnet.co.uk Twitter: @helenhshaw