“Becoming a consultant solicitor at Setfords has given me a newfound sense of freedom and balance.”
Lawyers: do you want to reclaim your personal life and deliver a better service to your clients? Setfords’ award-winning support team make that possible, enabling lawyers to embrace the life they’ve always dreamed about.
In this article, Setfords’ Senior Consultant Family Solicitor Jayne Acklam shares her personal journey, from feeling disillusioned in traditional private practice to finding renewed passion and purpose with us. With our unparalleled support, ranging from cutting-edge technology and marketing to dedicated wellbeing and compliance teams, she has thrived with the ability to focus on what truly matters: delivering an outstanding service to her clients whilst also enjoying a more fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.
Read on to find out what Jayne has to say about working with Setfords:
I have been a dedicated family lawyer for over 15 years. By August 2021, I found myself at a crossroads in my career. My time in private practice had left me disillusioned, overwhelmed by the relentless demands of billing, time recording, and the toxic environment of bullying and office politics. The stress had taken such a toll on my health and sanity that I seriously contemplated leaving the profession I once loved.
During this challenging period, I stumbled upon Setfords’ website, a discovery that now feels like fate. Intrigued, I reached out and had a conversation with a talent acquisition specialist who explained the unique approach and supportive environment at Setfords. The idea of becoming self-employed initially filled me with fear, but I realised I had nothing to lose. Taking the plunge was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I haven’t looked back since.
After taking a bold leap, I embarked on my journey as a consultant solicitor with Setfords. The transition was seamless, thanks to the state-of-the-art case management system and easy-to-navigate online training. Whenever I had a question, the answer was just a search away, or one of the team was on hand to help me.
Stand out support
Initially, I was apprehensive about attracting my own clients. However, Setfords’ dynamic marketing and business development teams quickly dispelled my worries by providing leads that got me started. Before long, I had a bustling caseload to manage. It was heartening to see many of my former clients follow me, each one remarking on the vastly improved experience with Setfords’ support.
The support from Setfords is truly exceptional. Their dedicated wellbeing team offers invaluable assistance, ensuring that whenever I need help, there’s always a warm and understanding person ready to listen—something I’ve never experienced in my career before. Additionally, their expert compliance team is always on hand to provide guidance with any compliance queries.
This robust support system has significantly enhanced my capabilities as a family lawyer. With Setfords’ backing, I can focus more on my clients’ needs, knowing that I have a reliable team behind me. This allows me to provide a more compassionate and effective service, ensuring my clients feel supported and understood throughout their legal journey with me.
Focusing on what matters
Working at Setfords has unlocked a realm of opportunities I never knew existed in a traditional firm. Here, I enjoy the liberty to manage my own caseload, bolstered by cutting-edge technology and business development support that ensures a consistent flow of clients. This autonomy empowers me to concentrate on what truly matters—delivering exceptional service to my clients.
Becoming a consultant solicitor at Setfords has given me a newfound sense of freedom and balance. The flexibility allows me to prioritise my personal life without sacrificing my professional commitments. It feels like I’ve reclaimed my life, enabling me to spend more quality time with my family and pursue my passions outside of work.
This flexibility also translates into my practice. I can dedicate more focused time to each client, providing them with the attention and care they deserve. The ability to work from anywhere, coupled with the support, means I can deliver exceptional service without the constraints of a traditional office environment. It’s a liberating experience that has made me a better lawyer and a happier, more fulfilled individual.
Final advice
My advice to any lawyers who may be considering consultancy is – what are you waiting for?
If you want a fulfilling and balanced professional life, combining the best aspects of legal practice with the benefits of entrepreneurship, then go for it.
If you are a lawyer who’s also feeling disillusioned with the pressures of private practice, Setfords is here to offer a different opportunity. Embrace freedom and autonomy, backed up by our award-winning support teams. If you’re a UK-qualified lawyer with 5+ years PQE, please get in touch for a confidential conversation today.
