Features / If I Knew Then
If I knew then: Anna Wilson
Anna Wilson is a family solicitor who qualified in 1997, with a specialism in advanced financial provision, private children law and domestic abuse. She joined Barcan+Kirby in 1998 and became a partner in 2001. She is now the firm’s executive partner with responsibility for strategic and operational HR, and is a member of the management board.
How did you start your law career?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a lawyer and that I wanted to qualify into an area where I could help people and make a difference. After completing my degree and post graduate diploma in legal practice, I secured a training contract in a smaller firm. I knew this would allow me hands on and direct experience with clients from the outset.
If you knew then what you know now, what mistakes might you have avoided?
I think it is difficult to look back and think about preventing mistakes. Every stage and every decision presented a sliding door or a lesson learned that has led me to where I am today.
I am now incredibly lucky to be working with an amazing group of partners and staff in a firm I am very proud of. I have just celebrated my 20 year anniversary with the firm and whilst it is very different now to when I first started, the values, ethos and culture remain the same. We are as committed to our clients, the excellent service we provide and we care about our clients and our colleagues as much as we always have.
What advice would you have given yourself when starting out?
Believe in yourself and your abilities. Be more confident.
If you knew then what you know now, would you still be sitting there?
Definitely, and I would be excited about the future of the firm and my journey with it.
What do you know now that you didn’t know then?
I am obviously a more experienced solicitor, but also I have learned the importance of making decisions collaboratively. As a firm, we are keen on securing feedback, suggestions and ideas from staff at every level. We regularly make changes to systems, procedures and processes or we introduce new initiatives from staff ideas.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far?
Continue to work hard.
What is your career highlight?
Celebrating my 20 year anniversary with Barcan+Kirby and feeling incredibly proud of the firm we have developed over the years.
What is your career low point?
I can honestly say that I do not have a career low point. I am generally a positive person and will always try and see the plus side of any situation.
What keeps you awake?
Workload and worry about clients or staff. I am a problem solver and I like to be on top of my work.
What’s changed from when you started out?
Technology and many reductions in legal aid, which has often limited the work we can do for clients. We have introduced new initiatives, however, such as free meetings and fixed fees which makes access to our services a realistic option for clients when they are in need of legal advice and support.
What’s still on your to-do list?
Lots of new HR initiatives for the firm. We are constantly striving to make improvements.
What’s next for you in business and personally?
I have just taken on a second three-year term as executive partner and I look forward to my continued work with the HR team and the board. I am also looking forward to spening time with my husband and two children (aged 7 and 11) during our summer holiday in Italy this year.
Read more: If I knew then: Matt Sims
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
