New law firm is ‘raising the bar’
AN Exeter-based firm of commercial law specialists providing advice on corporate, commercial and property law is ‘raising the bar’ following a move to larger offices and rebranding as Bertram Fairbanks.
Neal Bertram, formerly a commercial litigation partner at Bertram Law, has accepted an investment from Andy Fairbanks to create Bertram Fairbanks to expand what is a niche business model in order to help stand out from other solicitors across the city and beyond.
Andy Fairbanks joins the company as an investor and co-director, which now operates through an alternative business structure (ABS). An ABS is a firm that has non-lawyers in its ownership and management structure, allowing the firm to involve key people who bring additional experience and skills.
Commenting on the deal, Neal said: “Andy is a well-known and respected entrepreneur in the Southwest, and I am delighted that we are working together on this exciting chapter for the newly-formed company.
“His extensive experience in business growth and challenging the status quo will cement the firm’s commitment to becoming one of the leading commercial law firms in the Southwest.
“The unique partnership enables us to position ourselves as a niche commercial practice, not a full-service law firm. This means our team of commercial solicitors and business experts is able to provide a friendly, personal and hands-on approach to our clients who will have a designated senior lawyer personally looking after them.
“Bertram Fairbanks acts for a wide range of clients and is proud to be based in the heart of Exeter servicing clients across Devon, the Southwest and beyond. We are committed to contributing and investing in the local business community rather than growing and expanding nationally or internationally.”
Andy Fairbanks is chief executive of Progen Power Ltd, a company supporting a diverse clientele with temporary power solutions, handling a wide variety of projects including festivals, concerts and high-profile sporting events across the UK.
Andy said: “I’ve known Neal for some time and have huge respect for him, so when he approached me with regards to going into partnership, I didn’t hesitate.
“I’ve dealt with many lawyers through my multiple businesses, and some can over-complicate matters, which in turn incurs unnecessary large bills. That’s not how it works at Bertram Fairbanks – the firm really listens to the client’s needs and acts appropriately in an efficient and reasonably priced manner.”
As well as the name change, the firm has moved to new ultra-modern offices at Pynes Hill, Exeter.
Andy added: “The new ultra-modern offices are stunning, and we’ve purposely used local contractors to carry out the extensive renovation as we feel it’s important that we invest in our community.
“It’s a stimulating and cool environment to work in and includes our very own champagne and spirits bar called the ‘Belvedere Lounge’ and there is also a break-out area for staff and clients to have fun.
“We don’t want to be a cliché firm of stuffy solicitors and are very approachable to clients, so we don’t wear jackets or ties.
“It’s much more relaxed whilst still remaining professional,” he added, “and we think Exeter is ready for something different.”