Just over a year ago, Sarah Lynch became the owner and Managing Partner of Pomphreys Solicitors, following the retirement of long-standing principal Gordon Sommerville.
In that time, she has begun a a period of modernisation while maintaining the personal, community-focused approach Pomphreys is known for.
We sat down with Sarah to discuss her journey from solicitor to owner, her leadership philosophy, and her vision for the firm’s future.
Taking the Leap
What inspired you to move from being a practising solicitor to owning and leading Pomphreys?
I’d always been ambitious, but I wasn’t quite sure what direction that ambition would take. I’d thought about going to the Bar, but life — marriage and family — took me down a different route. I actually joined Pomphreys by chance, after being made redundant from an employment law consultancy. Gordon saw something in my background that complemented the firm, especially in civil and employment law, and I quickly became part of the team. Within a few years I’d moved from assistant to associate to salaried partner. Gordon encouraged me to take on more management responsibility, and when the time came for him to step back, the transition into ownership felt like a natural progression.
How did you prepare for the transition to Managing Partner?
Gordon involved me in the management side early on, particularly HR and staff matters, so I already had some experience. I also had invaluable support from business consultant, Douglas Mill, who guided both Gordon and me through the ownership transition. The biggest learning curve was understanding everything behind the scenes — from accounts and cashroom processes to the Law Society’s compliance requirements.
Were there any surprises when you first took over?
The sheer volume of administration! I was already dealing with management issues, but suddenly everything — from staffing to the boiler breaking down — landed on my desk. It wasn’t so much a shock as an adjustment. On the positive side, I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the transition went and how supportive the staff were. Everyone embraced the change, and we retained almost every member of staff in that first year, which meant a lot to me. One staff member did leave us this year but this was due to her looking for a change in her workload and work/life balance so I didn’t take it personally.
What was it like taking over from such a well-known figure in the firm’s history?
Gordon had led the firm for decades, so I wanted the transition to be gradual and transparent. We made sure the staff and clients knew well in advance, updated our materials, and I organised a surprise dinner for Gordon to mark the change. Having him stay on as a consultant has been invaluable — he’s introduced me to long-standing clients and helped make the process seamless. I am extremely grateful to Gordon in that respect.
Leading the Team
How would you describe your leadership style?
I’d like to think I’m proactive and approachable. I encourage open communication, and as a parent myself, I understand the need for flexibility. We’ve introduced more adaptable working arrangements and I am reviewing policies around maternity, paternity, and staff wellbeing. I want Pomphreys to be a supportive and progressive employer.
What kind of culture are you trying to build within the firm?
A happy one. I want people to come to work feeling valued and content. We’ve supported staff who want to progress — funding law and paralegal qualifications, offering training, and promoting from within. It’s about creating an environment where people thrive rather than just survive.
What moments stand out from your first year as particularly proud?
Seeing the firm achieve a turnover of over £1 million for the first time was a proud moment — not just for me but for everyone involved. I’m also proud that the team has remained strong and cohesive throughout the transition.
Modernising a Traditional Practice
Pomphreys is a long-established firm. How have you approached modernising it?
Stability was my first priority — making sure clients and staff felt confident in the change. But I’ve also focused on modernisation. We’ve upgraded our IT systems, installed a new server and achieved Cyber Essentials certification. I am open to new IT and AI services albeit I am also cautious of the later. Essentially, I am trying to encourage staff to progress their careers which will always serve the firm well.
How important is your digital presence?
It’s vital. More and more people expect law firms to be accessible online, and our updated website will reflect that. We’re also using ReviewSolicitors to collect client feedback and continuously improve our service. Of course, many of our elderly clients still prefer traditional communication, so we maintain that balance — home visits, posted documents, and personal contact remain a core part of what we do.
Do you see Pomphreys expanding its services or client base?
We’re always open to growth but careful not to overstretch. I’d rather focus on quality and stability than take on areas where we don’t have the right expertise. If expansion makes sense — either geographically or by bringing in new specialists — we’ll do it thoughtfully.
Lessons and Leadership
What have been your biggest challenges in the first year?
Time management. With two young children and a busy firm, balancing everything is tricky. I’ve had to become more disciplined about how I use my time and make sure that client care doesn’t suffer.
What advice would you give to another solicitor considering buying or starting their own firm?
Do it — but do your research. Look carefully at the accounts, understand the client base, and make sure you have a supportive transition plan with the outgoing principal. It’s not just about taking on files; it’s about taking on a business and a team.
Clients and Community
Pomphreys has deep local roots. How important is community connection to you?
It’s hugely important. While I don’t have the same family ties to the area that Gordon did, I’m committed to maintaining our presence and building new connections. We’re supporting local initiatives, donating to community events, and continuing to take part in charity Will programmes like Will Aid and Free Wills Network. Pomphreys has served generations of families, and that trust is something I want to protect and strengthen.
What do you think sets Pomphreys apart from other firms?
Our longevity and reputation. At 127 years old, the firm is woven into the local community. Clients know us, trust us, and come back to us because they value that personal service and continuity.
Looking Ahead
As you reflect on your first year, what are you most proud of?
My own growth. I’ve gone from being a solicitor to a business owner, and that’s a big shift. My husband jokes that I’ve turned into a businesswoman overnight — but on reflection, he’s right! It’s been a massive learning curve, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
What’s your vision for the next five years?
I’d like to bring Pomphreys together under one roof in larger, more prominent premises — ideally right on the high street in Wishaw. I also want to continue developing our team from within so that there’s a clear succession plan for the future.
And what excites you most about the future?
The opportunity to build something lasting. I want my daughters to see that hard work pays off, and I want Pomphreys to keep growing as a modern, client-focused firm with traditional values at its core. The goal is steady, sustainable growth — to be the go-to firm in Wishaw and beyond.
A New Chapter for a Trusted Name
As Sarah’s first year as Managing Partner draws to a close, it’s clear that Pomphreys is in capable hands. Under her leadership, the firm has combined progress with tradition — modernising systems, nurturing staff, and deepening its community roots while maintaining the integrity and trust that have defined Pomphreys for more than a century.
With energy, empathy, and vision, Sarah Lynch is writing the next chapter in the Pomphreys story — one that looks set to keep the firm at the heart of the Lanarkshire legal community for many years to come.
This article is by Pomphreys, Solicitors
Pomphreys, Solicitors, Wishaw
Pomphreys, Solicitors and Estate Agents, provides trusted legal and property services to clients in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, and across Scotland. With a long-standing reputation for excellence, we are proud to be recognised as a leading firm supporting individuals, families, and businesses through key moments in life and work.
Tel: 01698 373365
Email: sl@pomphreyslaw.com
