Phil Moir - Richard Reed Solicitors
Phil is Director and Solicitor, and Head of Company & Commercial and Dispute Resolution at the firm, helping clients navigate complex legal challenges with practical advice and a personal approach.
What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and what path did you take to become a Solicitor?
My dad was my biggest inspiration for pursuing a career in law. He worked as a legal executive for more than 40 years, and seeing his career, alongside other family members working in the legal profession across the North East, inspired me to follow a similar path.
I completed an undergraduate degree before undertaking the GDL conversion course and Legal Practice Course (LPC), both at Northumbria University. I then worked as a paralegal for around 18 months before securing a training contract and progressing to become a solicitor.
What are the most common legal issues people seek advice on, and how do you help them?
My work covers a varied range of legal matters, including landlord and tenant disputes, possession claims, buying and selling companies, and contested probate cases. No two cases are exactly the same, so I take the time to understand each client’s circumstances and provide practical advice tailored to their situation.
What are the biggest misconceptions people have about solicitors and the legal system?
I think some people assume the profession operates like it does on television. There is also a perception that solicitors are unapproachable, when in reality, we want to help people understand their options and find a way forward.
What advice would you give to someone facing a legal dispute for the first time?
Seek guidance as early as possible, even if that initially means speaking to Citizens Advice. Disputes can be very emotive, and it is easy to become caught up in the situation rather than seeing it objectively.
Legal disputes can also become expensive, so exploring ways to resolve matters early, including mediation, can make a real difference, and in some cases, reaching an early resolution can even help preserve relationships.
How do you handle the emotional and ethical challenges of your job?
I call it going into “job mode” as I need to remain focused on doing my job properly and acting in my client’s best interests. Of course, I can be sympathetic to someone’s circumstances, but becoming emotionally involved would make it harder to remain objective. The professional rules we follow as solicitors also provide a clear framework for dealing with ethical challenges.
What impact has technology had on the legal industry, and how do you see it evolving?
Technology has transformed the legal profession, making communication and case management faster and more flexible. AI is increasingly useful, but I think we’ve become too reliant on technology in some areas. There’s value in picking up the phone and speaking to someone, particularly at the courts; being unable to do so is a detriment.
How do you balance client advocacy with legal ethics and professional responsibility?
I don’t see it as a balancing act, as solicitors we must always act honestly, with integrity and within the rules of our profession. Our job is to represent clients to the best of our ability, give clear and realistic advice, and work towards the best possible outcome.
What is the most rewarding part of being a Solicitor, and what keeps you motivated?
The most rewarding part is helping people resolve problems and guiding them through difficult situations. I’m also motivated by building a successful firm that supports my family, our team and their families.
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