Practising law through purpose, with Martin Bunch
Bates Wells is a truly purpose and impact-driven law firm; the first in the UK to be certified B Corp. The firm sees it as its purpose to create a positive impact on people, communities and the planet.\nThe law firm that helped to launch the Better Business Act, fighting for workers\u2019 rights, Bates Wells works with clients who are like-minded change-makers and leaders, and some of the world\u2019s leading charities and social enterprises.\nMartin Bunch, the Managing Partner at Bates Wells, is passionate about walking the talk, successfully combining running a profitable business with a real social purpose - positive people making a positive impact.\nBates Wells goes above and beyond the role of a traditional law firm, proactively and optimistically challenging conventional wisdom and seeking out opportunities to seize the initiative and champion better outcomes, believing that actions speak louder than words.\nIt was a breath of fresh air talking with Martin and getting an insight into how Bates Wells\u2019 values are pivotal; how the firm shapes its decisions and the way their team lives and works.\nYou can find out more about Bates Wells\u2019 forward-thinking way of doing business in the legal world here.\n\nIn our inspirational conversation, Martin:\xa0\n\n\n Summarises Bates Wells and its history, detailing its B Corp journey which led to it becoming the first law firm to be certified B Corp in the UK.\n\n\n Explains its climate programme and solicitor apprentice scheme.\n\n\n Highlights the significant pro bono work the firm did for Uber drivers, a case which was eventually heard in the Supreme Court.\n\n\n Talks about how the firm has adapted to hybrid/remote working.\n\n\n Expands on some of Bates Wells\u2019 work, including how it successfully changed disability discrimination laws.\n\n\n Observes how having a clear direction attracts potential employees and clients, and why trying to be 'all things to all people' isn\u2019t a successful approach.\xa0\n\n\n Shares his thoughts on adding purpose to the concept of the 'triple bottom line', the concept of 'purpose-washing' and the nature of purpose for Bates Wells.\n\n\n Delves into the Better Business Act, which was drafted by Bates Wells, and the progress it\u2019s making.\n\n\n Describes how bringing specific people in to run parts of the business has been very effective, despite the costs involved.\xa0\xa0\n\n\n Outlines the firm\u2019s pricing model and stresses the importance of transparency with clients when it comes to costs.\n\n\n Focuses on how helping people is part of the company\u2019s culture.\n\n\n Examines lessons learned along the way, including what happens when you try to change things too quickly \u2013 evolution, not revolution, is key.\n\n\n Looks to the exciting times ahead and expresses the progress he\u2019d like to see with the B Corp movement across other businesses.