business focus Eric Robinson reveals secrets


For over 50 years, one of the south’s largest independent law firms, Eric Robinson Solicitors, has built an enviable reputation and market share for legal services in property, private client and family law. This year, the firm has decided to raise awareness of its ‘secret’ achievements for a number of companies in the Solent 250


Since it was established in 1964, Eric Robinson Solicitors’ mantra has been one of approachability, empathy and personal service. The development of its commercial business has been as a result of helping generations of people across Hampshire in their legal affairs.


“I think when people trust you with one part of their lives, especially personal and sensitive issues, a relationship builds and they will come to you for advice in other areas,” reflects managing partner Catherine Maxfield. “Decades ago, we were asked to help entrepreneurs plan and start up new initiatives, and advise family businesses on their legal affairs.”


As businesses grew, Eric Robinson Solicitors found itself more and more involved in commercial premises, acquisitions and mergers and staff issues. The firm started to hire specialist lawyers and in the past 10 years has


been quietly working for some of the region’s top firms, regularly featured in the Solent 250.


“There are fashionable phrases such as ‘organic growth’, but the story of our commercial team is one of truly natural development,” explains Maxfield. “Business owners who appreciated the service we gave when they were moving house, called us in when their company was ready to do the same. After successfully defending individuals in employment tribunals, companies started to ask if we could advise them on employment procedures and contracts.”


This year, Maxfield is taking over from retiring senior partner, Geoffrey Onoufriou, to lead the commercial team.


“Geoff has devoted many years to the success of our commercial department and I have had the privilege of working closely with him for the past couple of


DEALS AWARDS 2017


SOLENT


Open for entries and table bookings ... Presenter: Mark Durden-Smith Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton June 15, 2017


Details of how to enter, and information on the gala dinner and event sponsors can be found on the Solent Deals Awards website:


solentdealsawards.co.uk Business THE TM MAGAZINE 10 businessmag.co.uk THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE – SOLENT & SOUTH COAST – FEBRUARY 2017 Geoffrey Onoufriou and Catherine Maxfield


years to ensure the smoothest transition for our corporate clients,” says Maxfield. “The companies we work for have been really supportive of our handover process, referring companies who they think could use similar support, and we are taking on new staff and offices this year.


“2017 is going to be a very exciting.”


Catherine Maxfield 023 8022 6891 ericrobinson.co.uk


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36