Firm launches partnership model for first time ever

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Growing firm Fletchers Group appears to be going against the grain by moving towards the partnership model while other firms seem to be doing the opposite.

Launching a new partnership programme for the first time in its 35-year history, the firm has invited half a dozen of its staff to become partners. The 12 new partners will join its 12 existing directors as they work to attract and retain existing talent at the medical negligence and serious injury firm.

Peter Haden, the firm’s chief executive, said: “We believe we are a progressive legal firm, and a terrific home for both established lawyers, and aspiring young lawyers. Our business has a diverse network of talent, which is visible in the appointment of our new partners, and the breadth of leaders we are developing.”

This decision comes at a moment marked by a decline in the number of existing partnerships within the legal profession, as lawyers seem to be less focused on making partner. Some firms have instead offered the opportunity for their senior solicitors to retain a share of their fees as a consultant without joining a partnership. Several of these firms have also marketed themselves to new recruits as being more flexible regarding working hours and other commitments.

Haden adds: “The partnership programme is a core part of our people strategy, which we’ve created both to attract great legal talent and to improve career satisfaction for our existing teams.

“It includes embracing full flexible working; a concept that we celebrate for its genuine benefits to our colleagues. We have formally instituted new policies for home working, daily working and shareable jobs; as well as shaking up our maternity and paternity policies to become a genuine leader in this field.”

Haden’s comments reiterate that Fletchers isn’t changing either its management or ownership structure. The new partnership model doesn’t come with a specific leadership or responsibility or taking direct lead of a department. Instead, the idea offers an opportunity to identify a broader leadership group.

He said: “The partnership programme will be ongoing, and we expect further partners to be elected every year. There won’t be a set limit to the number.”

The North-West-based medical negligence and serious injury firm was acquired by Sun Capital in October 2021 and has a 520-strong headcount.