Solicitors with Staying Power: An interview with Gary and Clinton
Bird & Lovibond is one of the oldest law firms in West London. Recently it celebrated its 175th anniversary.
It’s not a firm that lives in the past though with a raft of new directors appointed, a recent major office refurbishment and the launch of an innovative app.
Directors, Gary Bennett and Clinton Matthews-Stroud, have both been with the firm since the mid-eighties. In a recent interview they discussed their careers with the firm.
What attracted you to the firm in the first instance?
Gary was quite pragmatic in his response.
“Training contracts – or articled clerk appointments as they were then – were tough to secure, even that far back, so I was genuinely delighted when Bird & Lovibond offered me a role.” Clinton was attracted by the non-stuffy approach of the firm remarking that the he was ‘interviewed in the pub!’
What was the office environment like then?
Both Gary and Clinton remarked upon the clutter that used to surround them. Gary mentioned that clients were seen in a solicitors’ room, not a meeting room, surrounded by piles of documentation. The emphasis on presentation was not quite what it is now with Clinton remarking upon the broken leg on his desk and ‘desk draws that would not open!’
How has the work changed over the years?
Gary said that:
“Technology has resulted in many changes.
In 1986 we did not even have a fax machine in the office with much communication going out by post.
Whilst e-mails and online portals have changed the way communication happens, ironically the speed at which conveyancing or litigation can be completed has not changed very much.”
Clinton echoed Gary’s response about the speed of various legal processes but saw a significant change coming in terms of client communication and access to real time information.
What has kept you at the firm for such a long period?
Clinton suggested that it is not just he and Gary who have been at the firm for a long time.
“We have quite a few people who have been with the firm for their entire career…. which speaks volumes about the supportive and nurturing approach of the firm.”
Gary added to this saying:
“At times it feels almost like a family and we have a genuinely friendly respectful way of working together.”
Is there still a place for local law firms?
Both agree on the importance of local accessible lawyers. Clinton points out that:
“We are dealing with some of the most stressful moments in a clients’ life. As such face to face support from someone who can provide a personal level of support is very important.”
Gary continued:
“We have seen an explosion in technology in recent years that continues with AI. Whilst this can be helpful, in terms of a basic understanding, it does not replace the experience of a highly trained solicitor who has real life case load understanding and access to the latest case law.”