We speak to the dynamic and forward thinking management team that is Sarah J. Reid, David Place and Phillip Moir at Richard Reed Solicitors, a leading law firm in Sunderland celebrating its 70th year.
Tell us about yourselves
SJR: I’ve been with the firm since 2003 and since becoming an owner and Director, I took over the reins of the Managing Director role in 2017. I’ve also served as Secretary to Sunderland Law Society for 14 years. I’m a family lawyer specialising in private family cases especially divorce and financial. As a trained collaborative lawyer, I help separating couples find a bespoke solution to the issues that matter to them on separation in a supportive environment and outside of the court remit.
DP: I joined the firm in 2016 and become an owner and Director in 2017. I was the Treasurer for Sunderland Law Society for 18 years. I am also the Assistant Coroner for the City of Sunderland having been appointed in 2003 and a Director of Sunderland BID. I specialise in all aspects of family law especially Special Children Act cases where the child suffers Non Accidental Injury.
PM: I joined the firm in 2008, made partner in 2011, Director in 2012 and owner in 2017. I specialise in all aspects of dispute resolution work, from landlord and tenant to contested probates and everything else in between. I also deal with commercial work in terms of advising businesses and business owners with regards to their legal needs. What is your team’s core strength?
The ability to capitalise on each other’s strength is what keeps us together. The ability to adapt to change, work together, share similar interests and common goals is another key factor. Combine that with dynamism, experience, the ability to listen to staff and share in their happiness and an open door policy that promotes a culture of support and understanding, the result is a team willing to go the extra mile for their firm, their clients, and their staff.
In your opinion, what makes Richard Reed Solicitors different?
A firm is only as good as its people and we believe we’ve got great people. This is a firm that is adapting to change and has a willingness to listen. When it comes to our clients, we make sure their trust is rewarded. When it comes to our community, we’re energetic and dynamic in engaging with them. We allow staff the time to support their communities; some are school Governors and Trustees. We’ve got a friendly and happy environment to work in as well as a culture of openness, support and understanding.
In the next 5 years, what do you hope to achieve?
We want Richard Reed Solicitors to be the leading and the go to’ law firm in Sunderland.
What is role of employees in the firm’s success?
One word? Crucial. They are the firm, they are the success. Each is as important as the other. Each is essential to the success of the firm. Each one is an asset. We talk to our staff regularly and try to involve them in our decision making where appropriate. We have Heads of Department with their own remit and control over their departments, reporting back directly to the directors.
What’s your best career memory?
SJR: Successfully concluding my first collaborative case, noting that the outcome meant the separating couple moved on, with their dignity intact, little animosity, and able to discuss things constructively, seeing the real impact of a mutually supportive environment to discuss issues on divorce. I know that couple will attend their children’s graduations, weddings and grandchildren’s christenings together.
DP: One, being successful in a case that was reported as one of the leading precedents for emigration which remains the case to date. The second, being appointed as Assistant Coroner in 2003 (at the age of 29), the youngest judicial appointment, as per the Law Society.
PM: The first being my first trip to the Royal Courts of Justice and obtaining a successful outcome for my client in proving that a Will was valid. The second occurred more recently when I obtained damages for an elderly couple who suffered injuries in a fire and I brought a claim against their Landlord who had maintained a position of denying liability for a number of years.
How do you like to relax?
SJR: With two young children, there isn’t much time to relax! My time in the office is structured such that it enables me to spend more time with my family. Knowing I’m supported in this by my management team is incredibly helpful. I love reading (member of a book club too!), spending time with my children and swimming. I’m also a VP at my local Women’s Institute.
DP: With a young sporty daughter most of my time is devoted to her activities. I am able to play football on a weekly basis. I love socialising with friends and family and I love to travel to see the world. Time permitting!
PM: Well, two highly energetic young boys keep my wife and I on our toes! So when I am able to have some time to myself, you’ll find me on a golf course trying and generally failing to improve my handicap or watching sport.
