We’re not a ‘stuffy’ Law firm. Our people are experts in what they do, but we are approachable and willing to listen. So whether a client needs guidance on planning organisational changes and corporate strategy, needs Legal advice on a family matter, Conveyancing for a house move or support on a dispute – we’ll take the time to know our client and understand their needs.
What initially brought me into the Legal Sector? Watching Ali McBeal. Only joking - but shows my age! I thought I would be a good Lawyer. Finding solutions, being tenacious to get to an end result, persuasion and negotiating and working with people, were all skills I possessed which I believed I would be able to excel in. I also liked research and learning new things and knew that with Law, you would constantly be learning!
Kimberley Barrett-St. Vall - Partner - Napthens Solicitors
I trained at Napthens as a Trainee Solicitor and left on qualification to a large city firm. It was a hard decision because I really enjoyed working with the people at Napthens but there was not, at that time, a role in the area which I wanted to specialise in which was Employment Law. When I returned to Napthens back in 2010 the main reason was that the role presented an exciting opportunity because the Head of Department was looking to introduce an offering / product that I considered would be of real interest to clients and really believed in it. The team at the time was small and I believed I would be able to offer something / add value. I also thought it was a really exciting time to join a department which was progressive and innovative.
Our current strategic plan is in place to take Napthens forward to 2025 with a Vision to be the law firm in the region known for outstanding relationships.
In my department, we have moved towards fixed fee and focus on client service.
A reduction in Tribunal work around 2012 and an increase in Tribunals again only very recently.
The amount of competition in the market place, not just from other Law Firms but consultancies.
The people and the firm’s values. Everyone has a voice, if you have a good idea and it “stacks up” you are given the freedom to run with it. The firm is progressive, it is always ahead of the curve.
Dependable, knowledgeable, kind, logical, organised and trustworthy.
My parents for always instilling in me that I could achieve anything I put my mind to. My old boss at DLA- Mark Dale who allowed me to grow in confidence and believe in my own ability; and my current boss, Head of Department Chris Boyle, for giving me so many opportunities to progress and develop.
Getting a balance between home life and working life. Having 2 young children and working full time as a partner can be challenging, making sure your time is split sufficiently to do the things you want to do for your family whilst achieving and delivering the standards you expect of yourself at work.
Seek out your own progression, be accountable, seek out opportunities - don’t wait for them to be presented to you.
Becoming a partner in 2016 at the age of 34.
Choosing to come back to Napthens in 2010.
Doing something in human psychology.
The people!
The progressive and innovative approach to the legal sector, and also the fact that we care about what we do and the people we work with (whether that be colleagues or clients).
Criteria is set for all roles so individuals know what is expected by way of behaviours and experience to attain each role.
As above.
It delivers competent technical and pragmatic advice in a no-nonsense and understandable way.It cares about its clients and understands to add value in the advice it gives, it needs to fully understand the needs and goals of the business.
To grow, but continue to be true to what drove the growth in the first place- client relationships and great working relationships between colleagues.
As soon as you are a trainee - even before, at university! You only need a small network but a meaningful one.
Positively, ensuring client needs are fully met but allowing this to be a sustainable achievement of lawyers as they seek to maintain a work/life balance.
Accept we deliver a service.Just like other service providers, ensure we are listening to our clients and always strive to achieve excellence in delivery of the service.
Clients’ expectations will go “full circle”- I think there will be a move to a greater place for AI in the engagement with the client, although perhaps not in my career lifetime. However, this desire will change some time thereafter where clients will probably want a human who they have a relationship with (as they do now!).
Client engagement tools, automation (AI)
Sacco Mann understands Napthens strategic goals & works with us to achieve those by finding us the right candidates. They actively update us on market trends & check in with us regularly to ensure they are doing all they can for us whilst continuing to source the market in the background, keeping an eye out for Napthens’ future...
Kimberley Barrett-St. Vall - Partner - Napthens SolicitorsWe use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, we assume you are happy for your browser to receive our cookies.