In the first of a special series of LexisNexis Legal Awards Profiles, we speak to David Pryce, the managing partner of 2018's Law Firm of the Year, Fenchurch Law
What was most satisfying about seeing your work recognised at the LexisNexis Legal Awards this year?
Seeing the positive effect on our team. It was incredibly motivating and rewarding for everyone, and whether it’s in business or in sport, winning things helps massively in creating a sense of shared identity.
What was your route into the profession?
A degree in English Literature from Birmingham University, followed by a conversion course and the LPC at BPP in London. When I was there ,BPP was still quite small and it had a really friendly atmosphere. The conversion course was probably my most enjoyable year in education.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
Trying (and often failing) to manage the competing interests of different stakeholders, so that at any given time everyone connected to the firm feels like they're winning.
Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?
My first boss was a solicitor called Michael Scanlan. He showed me that being a lawyer can be fun, and that what you can do is more important than what you can’t do.
If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?
Even if I wasn’t a lawyer I’d still want to spend my time managing a law firm. I’ve never wanted to do anything else.
Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?
Harvey Specter from the TV programme Suits, mainly because he’s responsible for the funniest advert I can remember seeing on the side of a London bus: 'If Harvey was on this bus, this bus would be awesome'. Still makes me chuckle.
What change would you make to the profession?
To find a way of ensuring that everybody can access high quality legal advice at a price that’s affordable, but with no compromise on quality. As a profession we’re still some way from achieving that.
How do you relax?
I love trail running. I’m lucky to live in a beautiful part of South Oxfordshire, surrounded by woodland. I can just lace up my shoes, run out of the door, and immerse myself in nature for an hour or two.
Entries for the LexisNexis Legal Awards 2019 are now open, and should be submitted at www.lexisnexislegalawards.co.uk by the closing date of Friday 16 November 2018. The awards ceremony will be held at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane on Wednesday 13 March 2019.
