Author: Lyn Burley – HR Manager at Scott Bailey
At Scott Bailey, we believe a law firm is only as good as the people in it, and we’re lucky to have a team that genuinely enjoys working together. Over the past few years, we’ve grown significantly, and through careful, considered recruitment, we’ve stayed true to the values that shaped our firm and the culture that makes this place feel like home.
A workplace full of character
Our home is a beautiful old building on Lymington High Street, full of charm and personality. Forget polished chrome and glass partitions, we’re all about warmth, character, and yes, a few creaky floorboards that remind us of our roots.
Today, we’re a team of 52, with 7 partners across different areas of law. We work hard, but we also know how to laugh together. Every member of our team is united by a commitment to excellence and the highest standards our clients expect. The work can be fast-paced and complex, so we make time to pause and connect because we’re not just here to do a job; we’re part of a team that values humour, connection, and the people behind the work.
Celebrating success and supporting each other
Our reputation isn’t just about legal excellence; it’s about the spirit of our team. Regular team meetings give us space to celebrate wins, offer support, and share feedback on how we can improve for ourselves and our clients.
Our social committee keeps things lively all year round: team lunches, Wellness Weeks with step-count competitions, lunchtime walks, sailing opportunities at Lymington Sailing Club, and even a music quiz courtesy of our conveyancing team. We’ve got cricket and netball teams, and regular golf rounds where apprentices, managers, and partners play side by side. At Scott Bailey, it’s not about hierarchy, it’s about building great relationships.
You’ll find wedding mood boards in the office, framed photos of team get-togethers, and desks decorated to feel like home. Our annual Christmas party includes a whole-team Secret Santa, and our bake-off competition is legendary.
“Working in such a supportive environment, colleagues end up becoming your besties and it never feels like work.”
We’re lucky to have three resident dogs who are very much part of the team. Whether it’s a quick cuddle between meetings or a lunchtime walk, they’re an important part of our culture. Outside, our garden offers space to enjoy the sunshine, do yoga in summer, or roast marshmallows over the firepit at our autumn bonfire bash.
Spporting our local community
Our partners are committed to the local community and support the team’s independent endeavours. If a club, charity, or cause matters to you, it matters to us. From sponsoring football kits and buying equipment for young farmers to entering charity events, we foster a caring, community-focused environment.
Investing in people
Training and development are part of our DNA. In 2023, we were proud to win the Professional Services Award for Training & Development and the Business of the Year Award from the New Forest Business Partnership.
We believe in growing our own talent. This year, we supported three law graduates to begin their solicitor apprenticeships -a proud moment for us all. They’ll rotate across departments, gaining experience and building their careers. We also offer work experience for local students and support employees through professional qualifications, from SQE to chartered legal executive status.
We provide 24-hour access to webinars, run technical and personal development sessions, and hold yearly Respect at Work workshops covering equality and diversity. This year, we introduced a transparent progression pathway from legal assistant to partner, with twice-yearly reviews and tailored development plans.
“The partners fully support you and want to help you achieve your goals, whatever path it is you wish to take!”
Around 30% of our team work part-time, and we’re committed to flexibility—whether you’re caring for family, pursuing personal goals, or need a different work pattern.
“Having an employer that offers engaging work, professional development and progression, all whilst upholding family values and being flexible enough to fit around your family has been like finding the proverbial needle in the haystack.”
A Culture of Loyalty
Our partners are approachable and genuinely care about the people in the firm. One of our equity partners started as an apprentice 25 years ago and is still with us today. Five team members have over 15 years of service, ten have over 10 years, and eighteen have over 5 years. In the past 23 months, we’ve welcomed 19 new team members and had just one leaver due to retirement.
“I’ve never worked anywhere where I’ve felt so welcome.”
From comprehensive inductions to ongoing support, we make sure no one is left to “hit the ground running” alone. With 28% of our team here for over a decade, it’s clear that when people join Scott Bailey, they stay and grow.
Would you like to join us?
If you’re looking for a career in law with a firm that values people, invests in growth, and fosters a culture of connection, Scott Bailey LLP might be the place for you. Check out our careers page or get in touch with our HR Manager, Lyn – we’d love to hear from you.
