Winston Solicitors: A Year in Review – 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on an incredible year for Winston Solicitors. The last 12 months have been a period of growth, success, and community spirit. We’re so proud to share some of the highlights that have made the last year so memorable.

Celebrating Accolades and Achievements

2024 has been a standout year for Winston Solicitors, with our reputation for excellence earning significant recognition across the legal industry.

Earlier this year, we were delighted to be named a 'leading firm.' for Outstanding Client Service by the Legal 500, recognised specifically for our exceptional client care. This acknowledgment shows our commitment to putting our clients first, ensuring that every individual who seeks our services feels supported and valued. The Legal 500 also named our fantastic Family Team, naming Teresa Davidson and Harriet Reid as ‘leading partners.’

Our Family Law team shone brightly with rankings from Chambers & Partners. This included a ranking for the firm, as well as individual rankings for Teresa Davidson and Harriet Reid. These achievements are a testament to the team’s expertise, compassion, and ability to guide clients through some of life’s most challenging situations.

Adding to this, Winston Solicitors was a finalist in two categories at the Yorkshire Legal Awards 2024. This honour highlighted our firm's versatility and excellence in both team and individual contributions to the legal field.  

We were also shortlisted for two awards in the Modern Law Private Client Awards. These nominations reflect the strength of our Private Client team. Our Family Team was also acknowledged for outstanding contributions to the field. The team was “Highly Commended” in the “Private Client Team – Family Law” category.

In addition, we were shortlisted for the Legal Innovation & Technology Awards for “Disruptive Technology of the Year.” We are always ready to embrace new technology to increase efficiency and ensure that our clients receive a smooth and swift service.  

These accomplishments reflect the passion, expertise, and hard work of every member of the Winston Solicitors team. They serve as a source of pride and a motivation for us to continue raising the bar in 2025.

Welcoming New Hires to Our Fantastic Workforce

Over the last year, we have welcomed and promoted some talented individuals who brought fresh perspectives and expertise to our firm.

Among these appointments was the promotion of Monika Volsing to the position of Head of Private Client. With her extensive experience and leadership skills, Monika has already made a significant impact, further strengthening our offering in Wills, Trusts, LPAs and Probate services. This highlights the firm’s commitment to nurturing talent and rewarding dedication.

We also expanded our team through strategic hires across several departments, reflecting the steady growth of our firm. Most notably, we welcomed two experienced solicitors into the fold. Hannah Craven has joined our Family team from Silk Family Law and has hit the ground running in her role as Associate Solicitor. Rogan Ashton joined the business from Grieves Solicitors and is settling in as Head of the Personal Injury department. Additionally, we acquired Harrogate-based firm, WildWood Legal. This has allowed us to expand our personal injury department and we welcome Stephen Hattersley as a consultant.

The growth of our team is a testament to the thriving environment we’ve built. Winston Solicitors is a place where individuals can develop their careers and share a unified goal of delivering exceptional client care. We’re excited to see how our expanded team will continue to drive success in 2025 and beyond.

Giving Back to Our Community

Contributing to the community has always been at the heart of Winston Solicitors, and 2024 was no exception. This year, we proudly continued our tradition of making a positive impact through charitable efforts and innovative local networking initiatives.

Our annual charity quiz night was a standout event once again, bringing together clients, colleagues, peers and friends to support a great cause. This year’s event raised £3000 for Leeds Mencap. A charity dedicated to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities. The evening was a resounding success, filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.

In November, our Private Client team took part in Will Aid, the annual Will-writing scheme. The team gave free advice to participants in exchange for a donation to be distributed among Will Aid’s seven chosen charities. We raised over £4,000 for Will Aid 2024.

We also took part in Mission Christmas again, which is a Cash for Kids initiative that attempts to ensure that children from underprivileged backgrounds receive a gift. No child should ever feel like Father Christmas won’t be paying them a visit at Christmastime. That’s why our amazing staff members donated some fantastic toys this year, both in quality and quantity. As usual, we combined Mission Christmas with our Christmas Jumper day, where Winston Solicitors’ staff donned festive togs and put their donated presents under the tree.

Networking & Meet-Ups

Beyond our fundraising efforts, we also focused on fostering connections within our local business community. We saw continued success with our LS8 Meet-up group. A fresh approach to networking, creating opportunities for Leeds-based businesses to come together, share ideas, and support each other. These events have not only strengthened professional relationships but have also highlighted the importance of collaboration in building a thriving local economy.  

At Winston Solicitors, we believe that our role extends beyond providing legal expertise. By actively engaging in charitable work and championing local business networking, we aim to give back to the community that has supported us throughout the years. The LS8 Meet-Up raised over £400 for local charities and brought people together from across North Leeds.

Corporate and Social Events

This year, we teamed up with Nomify.me to host a series of webinars focusing on HR issues and employment law. Hosted by Anna Roberts from Nomify and our own Employment Law team, the webinars have gone from strength to strength, with people from across the globe catching wind and signing up.

We have also had some of our staff members guest starring on the Showcasing North Leeds podcast. Our Head of Conveyancing, Leasa Foster, joined Levi Fowler to discuss the role of conveyancers and why selecting the right one is crucial for a seamless property transaction. Drawing from her extensive background, Leasa addressed common concerns and misconceptions that people have about the conveyancing process. Monika Volsing also joined Levi on his podcast, delving into all aspects of estate planning, as well as emphasising the significance of having a Will and Power of Attorney.

Ilkley Grammar School’s Future Fest was a success for the second year running. We were pleased to have a popular stand at the event, where students from years 7-13 learned more about what a career in law could do for them. And they were ever so keen on our merchandise too!

Internal Events

Our 2024 Annual staff meeting saw us take part in a full day of teambuilding off-site. The event was an opportunity to spend some much-needed quality time with colleagues. After lots of fun, games and teamwork, we came out of the day with a deeper understanding of the people we work with. We’re so proud of our staff and making sure we’re all connected keeps the firm working cohesively. After all, teamwork makes the dream work.

However, 2024 wasn’t all work and no play! Our team celebrated milestones and enjoyed time together at various social events throughout the year. Whether it was summer socials in the garden, team lunches, or our much-anticipated fireworks and fish ‘n’ chips night, these moments strengthened our bonds and reminded us of the incredible team spirit we have at Winston Solicitors.

Looking Forward to 2025

As we reflect on our achievements and cherish the memories made in 2024, we are excited for what lies ahead in 2025. With new goals, upcoming projects, and a continued focus on delivering outstanding legal support, we’re ready to embrace the opportunities that the new year will bring.

To our clients, colleagues, and community, thank you for your trust, support, and collaboration this year. Your encouragement fuels our passion for what we do.

From all of us at Winston Solicitors, we wish you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Here’s to making 2025 our best year yet!