Law firm’s support for staff during pandemic praised

A report by the Law Society has praised the work done by Smith Partnership to support its staff through the pandemic.

The assessment added that the Derby-based solicitors’ firm has “an excellent management culture that is based on sound leadership, excellent communications, modern and flexible ways of working and good staff involvement”.

Anne Milne, from Lexcel, the inspection arm of the Law Society, reviewed Smith Partnership during February, interviewing 19 of the company’s 70 staff.

She recognised that the company had been forced to modify its operation since the coronavirus outbreak a year ago.

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Ms Milne said: “Homeworking was efficiently introduced, systems are working well and people have continued to work to meet client needs.

“Regular team meetings have taken place via Zoom or Teams and these were much appreciated, ensuring not only that staff were kept up-to-date but maintaining work standards and efficiency and also checking that everyone was managing as well as possible with home working arrangements.

“A number of people interviewed felt the Smith Partnership was the best firm they had worked for.”

Kevin McGrath, Smith Partnership’s managing partner, said: “I am delighted by the report, which reflects the superb work done by our team during the past year.

“I would like to say how grateful I am that they have adapted seamlessly to a different working environment during the pandemic.

“They have always put our clients first, regardless of the obstacles which they have had to face.

“I am also very proud that the team have spoken so highly of working for Smith Partnership.”