Chris Morgan - Corporate Partner, Burnetts Solicitors LLP
What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and what path did you take to become a Solicitor?
I actually wanted to be a police officer, but when I decided to go to university, law felt like the more intriguing path. I’ve always enjoyed reading and problem-solving, so becoming a solicitor seemed a natural fit. I completed an undergraduate law degree, then a master’s in corporate law, before securing a training contract in Newcastle.
What are the most common legal issues people seek advice on, and how do you help them?
I’ve built up a loyal base of repeat clients. As a result, clients often contact me first with any queries. Burnetts is a full-service law firm, so if I’m not the right person to advise, I can introduce them to someone else.
I practice in corporate law, including mergers, acquisitions, restructures and other company and commercial matters. The most frequent query I receive is probably clients looking to buy or sell a business. It’s important to understand what a client wants from the outset and to work well with the client’s other advisers, such as their tax adviser and accountant.
How has the legal profession changed in recent years, and what trends do you see emerging?
Covid had a huge impact, particularly the wider use of video calls which benefits both lawyers and clients by allowing face-to-face discussions without unnecessary travel and expense. AI is also having a substantial impact on the way legal services are delivered.
What are the biggest misconceptions people have about solicitors and the legal system?
Probably that solicitors are not very approachable and that we’re mainly interested in billing. In reality, most of us are genuinely interested in helping clients, understanding what matters to them and putting their interests first.
What advice would you give to someone facing a legal dispute for the first time?
Speak to a solicitor promptly so you understand the merits of your position and any important issues, such as limitation periods. Once you have that advice, try to negotiate a sensible outcome directly with the other party where possible. That can preserve the commercial relationship, which may be important for retaining a customer or client, and it can greatly reduce the time and cost involved in dealing with a dispute. Running a business is demanding enough without prolonged litigation becoming a distraction.
How do you handle the emotional and ethical challenges of your job?
The support of colleagues is essential. We have a fantastic Corporate team at Burnetts, as well as support from the wider firm so there is always someone available if a second opinion is needed. Our Corporate team includes lawyers at all levels, including five Partners. Outside work, I play football, badminton and the occasional game of padel, which helps me switch off. My partner is also a great support and I have the support of my wider family too.
What impact has technology had on the legal industry, and how do you see it evolving?
AI allows us to complete some tasks more quickly than a few years ago, including aspects of due diligence on M&A matters. However, it has limitations. I am often asked to review contracts clients have generated using AI and they are rarely suitable without significant amendment such as lacking the detail needed to work properly; sometimes the clauses are simply wrong. For example, a client based in England used AI to draft a contract and it produced a document based on US law. AI is useful, but only if it is given the right information and then reviewed by someone who understands whether the output is appropriate. I do not think it will replace solicitors, but it will change how legal services are delivered.
What are the key qualities that make a great Solicitor?
Overall, I think you have to enjoy being a solicitor. It’s sometimes not your typical 9-5 and is full of time pressures and interesting but difficult issues. Like anything, it is hard to do well over the long term if you don’t enjoy it and are not willing to give it your full commitment. I sort of fell into the legal profession, having originally wanted to be a police officer, but now I cannot imagine doing anything else.
How do you balance client advocacy with legal ethics and professional responsibility?
It can be difficult when a client decides on a course of action that may not be entirely in their best interests, often because of their personal circumstances. Our role is to advise clearly on the routes available and which option we think is best suited to their situation. However, it is ultimately the client’s decision and it is important to respect that and act accordingly, provided it remains within our professional obligations.
What is the most rewarding part of being a Solicitor, and what keeps you motivated?
I genuinely enjoy my job and when you enjoy what you do, motivation comes naturally. Many M&A clients are owner-managed businesses, so acting on a sale can be particularly rewarding, especially where the business has been built by the owner or their family over many years. One business sale involved the fourth generation of a family and seeing clients reflect on how far they have come is very satisfying.
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