Investment and consolidation as law firm returns to the office
Blacks Solicitors has responded to the unique requirements placed on it by COVID-19 and consolidated 11 departments into its City Point office on King Street, Leeds.
Since moving into the office in 2017 the firm has grown significantly, with turnover increasing to over £12.6m in 2021, and staff numbers growing to 170.
Blacks’ Residential Property, IT, Human Resources and Accounts departments have joined the firm’s seven other teams, including Corporate, Commercial Property, and Employment at the 11,000 sq ft City Point office.
Chris Allen, managing partner, said: “The restrictions placed on the UK due to the pandemic have played a crucial role in us bringing the whole firm together under one roof.
“Working from home has been particularly effective and this has led to us adopting a modern flexible working model, giving staff the opportunity to hot desk when necessary.”
The consolidation in the one office coincides with 19 new hires, including a paralegal in the Wills & Probate team, solicitors in the Corporate & Commercial and Family teams, an associate solicitor and a partner in the Commercial Dispute Resolution team, and a new partner in the Commercial Property team, bringing the total number of partners at the firm to 26.
The firm has invested in a range of updates to its headquarters, including additional desk and computer space, casual meeting booths and a locker wall.
Advanced technology has also been incorporated to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 including a purpose-built virtual hearing room, iPad and phone stands, and webcams throughout the office.
Allen added: “Despite being extremely challenging, the pandemic has given us the unique opportunity to innovate our ways of working, and by responding to the situation quickly and decisively we’ve maintained our reputation of being ahead of the curve.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how our teams moving into City Point settle in, and the ongoing impact of our new flexible working strategy.”
