Life at Chadwick Lawrence: What Our People Say

At Chadwick Lawrence, people are at the heart of everything we do. As a firm, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive, collaborative and forward-thinking environment where colleagues can thrive both professionally and personally. 

Our culture is built on trust, respect, and a genuine commitment to each individual, which shines through in the way we work together and the way we serve our clients. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what some of our team have to say about life at Chadwick Lawrence.  

A People-First Culture 

For Managing Partner Neil Wilson, the success of Chadwick Lawrence is built on one simple principle: putting people first.  

“We’re a people-based law firm that looks after our own, with 250 of them employed across eight offices in West Yorkshire. Our mantra is to empower people, trust them, and support them in doing their job” 

This commitment to people runs deeper than words. A few years ago, the firm introduced a dedicated health and wellbeing initiative, giving every employee two hours a week, during working hours, to focus on something that benefits their wellbeing. As Neil explains, this was more than just a gesture – it has become central to the firm’s culture and was a driving factor in Chadwick Lawrence being recognised in The Sunday Times Top 500 Best Places to Work in the UK in 2024. 

Living Our Values 

The emphasis on wellbeing and support goes hand in hand with the firm’s values. Lisa Bailey, Head of People and Culture, describes the “Chadwick Lawrence way of working” as being fundamental to everything the firm does. 

“Values mean everything to us – creativity, innovation, and celebrating diversity of thought and opinion. It sounds like a cliché, but Chadwick Lawrence is only as good as the people who work here. That’s why we create an environment where people feel included, where they have the ability to express themselves, and where there are genuine opportunities for growth and development.” 

Collaboration and Growth 

Collaboration is another cornerstone of life at Chadwick Lawrence. Senior Partner Dan Hirst highlights how the firm recognises that every individual has different goals, both personal and professional:  

“At the heart of what we do is a true spirit of collaboration, it’s about understanding, listening, and recognising that each person has different objectives.” 

That commitment to growth can be seen in action across the firm. Ellie Jones, who joined Chadwick Lawrence in a newly created role as Customer Relationship Co-ordinator, in the Employment Team, reflects on the investment she has received from day one. 

“Chadwick Lawrence have committed to development by offering me any training I wish to take. I’ve even had the opportunity to attend external marketing events, meeting like-minded people in similar roles, all supported and funded by the firm.” 

For others, the supportive environment has opened up career pathways they might never have imagined. Associate Litigation Executive Zoe Allen started her journey with Chadwick Lawrence on a work placement, which inspired her to pursue her career in law. 

“Chadwick Lawrence offers a whole range of different pathways available to both undergraduates and postgraduates, so there are plenty of opportunities for career progression.” 

Encouraging New Voices 

Junior members of staff are actively encouraged to bring their ideas to the table, shaping their own careers and the wider culture of the firm. Associate Solicitor Sunnia Khaliq explains:  

“We encourage our junior team members to come forward and express their views about what they want to achieve, whether personally, or professionally.” 

This openness and trust extends to more senior employees too. Partner Kaye Willis notes how she was given both the autonomy and confidence to take on new challenges and drive change:  

“The firm has always had a reputation for being forward-thinking and progressive. I wanted a new challenge and was supported to push myself, both personally and on behalf of my team.” 

Giving Back to the Community 

As a firm, we are also deeply committed to giving back to the community we serve. Partner Asma Iqbal describes this as an extension of the firm’s values: 

“Chadwick Lawrence are dedicated to giving back to the community, not only from a CSR perspective, but because we genuinely believe in living the values we outline.” 

This dedication takes many forms. Colleagues across the business regularly get involved in fundraising efforts for the many charities that we support, and the firm has long-standing partnerships with organisations that are close to the hearts of our people.  

Associate Sue Preece has seen first-hand how this commitment creates a sense of purpose and connection: 

“We’re lucky to be in a position where we can support dementia groups and other community networks. It means a lot to know that as a firm, we’re able to give something back in areas we truly understand the challenges people are facing.” 

Head of I.T. Dan Bell, also highlights how the firm supports individuals in their personal commitments to the community. In his case, this includes backing his role with the Leeds Rhinos Physical Disability Rugby League team:  

“Chadwick Lawrence have supported me through that, not only giving me time but financially – sponsoring me this season, which is a huge benefit to not only myself but the club as a whole.” 

Looking Ahead 

As the firm looks to the future, the message is clear: Chadwick Lawrence is not just a law firm, but a community built on trust, collaboration, and shared values. Neil Wilson sums it up best:  

“The firm is in a very good place. We’ve got some exciting plans for the future, and all I would say is – come and join us. You’ll enjoy it.” 

If you’re curious about building your career with a people-focused firm, take a look at our careers page to see current opportunities and learn more about life at Chadwick Lawrence.