CASE STUDY • Kings heath Office • birmingham
Cathy Jones
Paralegal • Family Team • Kings Heath
Cathy's journey with GloverPriest has been one of growth, dedication, and genuine passion for helping people. Over the years, she has built strong relationships with both colleagues and clients, earning respect through her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering commitment
Joined November 2006
Legal Assistant
Mentor
Manager
Over 19 Years of Service
Family Law
Paralegal
Private Client
"For me, the relationships I’ve built with my colleagues, including Gavin, have been a huge part of why I’ve stayed so long."
I started my journey in November 2006, before the firm was known as GloverPriest Solicitors. I joined as an office junior with the firm’s predecessors, Thomas and Co., and over the years, I’ve grown into a key member of the team.
My Role Progression
When Gavin and Martin took over the firm, my career took a pivotal turn. Gavin initially needed an assistant, and I was selected for the role. That opportunity allowed me to learn across a range of legal disciplines, from family law to wills and probate, as well as conveyancing. I’ve always been willing to get involved in different areas, and that gave me valuable experience across multiple departments. Over time, I took on more responsibilities, became a paralegal, and later progressed to support staff supervisor at the King’s Heath office.
How Has GloverPriest Supported My Skill Development?
One of the main reasons I stayed at GloverPriest was the culture. For me, it was simple – why would you move when everything’s great? The firm recognised my potential early on and supported my development, giving me the opportunity to gain my Legal Secretary Certificate, fully funded by the firm. I was encouraged to complete a Level 3 Legal Secretary Certificate through Solihull College, which allowed me to balance work and study while continuing to build my experience.
What Changes in Culture Have I Seen Over the Years?
Since I started, I’ve seen a huge transformation in the culture of the firm, especially as it has grown. We now have people from all different backgrounds and walks of life, which has made the workplace more inclusive and diverse. Little things, like Free Food Fridays with halal options, show that everyone is considered and included. It’s helped create a more open and harmonious environment, and I’ve learned a lot from working alongside people with different experiences and cultures.
For me, the relationships I’ve built with my colleagues, including Gavin and Martin, have been a huge part of why I’ve stayed so long. Over the years, I’ve developed meaningful connections with the people I work with, and it feels much more like being part of a family than just being an employee. The combination of professional support and genuine personal care has created an environment where I’ve been able to thrive.
As I’ve said before, you get to know people on more of a personal level as well as the work level, and to be honest, you’re probably at work more than you are at home. So you have to be able to work for and with people that are on the same kind of level and that you get on with.
How Has My Role Evolved?
I’d say my journey to becoming a paralegal happened naturally rather than through a formal promotion. One of the things I appreciate about GloverPriest is that there’s always open communication around career development, and people are encouraged to progress at their own pace without pressure. I know that when I’m ready to take the next step, I’ll have that support behind me.
Today, I mainly work in family law, supporting clients through complex and sensitive matters. My role involves managing documents, preparing statements, and liaising with clients. Because of the experience I’ve built up over the years, I’m also able to support conveyancing teams when needed, and I feel confident handling a variety of tasks.
As support staff supervisor, I’ve become a go-to person in the King’s Heath office. I like to think that my approachable nature means colleagues and management feel comfortable coming to me, whether it’s for work-related advice or personal concerns. Training others is also something I really enjoy, and I’ve always been told that I’m quite good at it. Helping others develop their skills is something I find really rewarding.
Would I Recommend GloverPriest?
If someone asked me whether I’d recommend GloverPriest as a place to work, my answer would be without a doubt. It’s supportive, inclusive, and offers so much more than just a job. There’s a real sense of community here – it goes beyond professional relationships. For me, it’s more than just work; it feels like family.
From dress-down days and Free Food Fridays to summer and Christmas social events, GloverPriest offers much more than just a pay packet – it offers a place where people genuinely care about one another.