Wayne Lynn - Partner, Silk Family Law
What were your career ambitions growing up?
Other than the unrealistic thought of becoming an astronaut as a young child I didn’t really have any firm career ambitions until I took my options at 14. Maths and Science were not my forte, but I really enjoyed English and History. My English teacher, Peter Fairhurst suggested that I may be suited to a career in the law, but it was not until I had work experience at Richmond, Anderson and Goudie Solicitors that I realised that this was the career that was suited to me, as I witnessed firsthand what a difference a good lawyer can make to peoples’ lives when they need the law on their side. It has always been great to help people who need it and make a difference.
Tell us about about your career path so far?
I trained at Smith & Graham Solicitors based in Hartlepool in the early 1990s, before qualifying into their Family and Criminal Justice team. I realised that Family Law was the area that I wished to become the centre of my practice, and became the Head of Family in the late 90s before joining Dickinson Dees where I began to specialise in more complex and diverse cases. In 2010 the partners in the family law team started Silk Family Law and I joined the firm from the beginning. Silk has gone from strength to strength and I became a partner in 2015.
What has been your proudest achievement?
I have been involved in some really important and high profile cases over the years, which gives me great personal satisfaction, but my proudest achievement is seeing young lawyers that I have trained and mentored achieving success in their own careers. I was fortunate enough to have had some exceptional mentors during my career and feel a sense of duty to help lawyers to go on to achieve their potential is really satisfying.
What are you currently working on?
Client confidentiality is sacred, but It is fair to say no two cases are ever the same. I am currently handling a variety of different cases, ranging from complex multi-million pound divorces, to the preparation of prenuptial agreements as well as cases involving children’s living arrangements. I also act for a lot of unmarried clients in dispute with their partners. However, the common thread is that treating clients professionally and compassionately is key.
Tell us about your team?
As well as my fellow partners Ian, Kim and Margaret I work daily with associates Katie Machin and Ellie Lowes and legal assistants Eve Bentley, Elliot Anderson and Jenny McKinney. I am fortunate to work with exceptional lawyers and all play a pivotal part in the work and success of the firm.
What is the best piece of business advice you have been given?
Value every member of your team! The sum is always greater than the parts.
Who are your Heroes and Mentors?
My parents, who always believed in me when I doubted myself, as well as my former English Teacher, Peter Fairhurst, who sparked my passion of English language and literature and encouraged my chosen career path.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
Hopefully having overseen our young lawyers of today become the new partners and mentors of the next generation after them. I also hope that I am able to get the work/life balance right. As we get older, time with our loved ones becomes increasingly precious.
Who are your four ideal dinner guests alive or dead?
Billy Connolly for his unique take on life. Dr.Martin Luther King, whose wisdom, grace and dignity set an example to us all, regardless of race, colour or creed. Stephen Fry for his intelligence on a range of subjects and finally Jesus as I would love to know the answers to some deep questions. I think there would be quite a conversation at the dinner table!
How do you unwind?
Trying to reduce my current golf handicap, watching Newcastle United and spending quality time in the company of family and good friends.
What is your favourite book and boxset?
Choosing just one of each is very difficult as I have a broad taste. However, The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle is one that I often return to. As for box sets, Only Fools and Horses. I must have seen every episode of this many times and it never fails to make me laugh. Absolutely timeless stuff.