Brighter. Bolder. Bennett Oakley.

A bold new identity for a pioneering, employee-owned law firm in Sussex

Bennett Oakley Solicitors, established in 1957, has launched a new brand identity marking the next chapter in the firm’s evolution, from a trusted local practice to an award-winning, employee-owned law firm. The new fresh look reflects the firms progression and modernised business structure.

The move to employee owned in 2022, a first for law firms in Sussex, has reshaped how Bennett Oakley operates. With every employee holding a stake in the business, the team is uniquely positioned to deliver legal services that places clients at the heart of decision-making.

The updated identity and website also celebrate Bennett Oakley’s heritage as a trusted local practice but also reflect its growth into an award-winning, employee-owned firm with a diverse, dynamic and client-focused team.

Recent accolades highlight this success story. In November 2024, Operations Director Samuel Cash, was named ‘Rising Star of the Year’ at the Modern Law Conveyancing Awards, while the firm itself was shortlisted in two categories at the 2024 Sussex Business Awards. Earlier this year, Managing Director, James Leighton, was highly commended for ‘Managing Director of the Year’ at the Modern Law Awards in Liverpool. The firm also secured the title of ‘Winning Workplace’ at the BH Biz Awards.

Managing Director, James Leighton, said:

“This rebrand is more than just a new look. It symbolises our growth as a firm, our position as Sussex’s first employee-owned law firm, and the strength of the team that makes Bennett Oakley what it is today. We are proud to carry forward our history while presenting ourselves in a way that reflects the modern, client-focused service we provide.”

For the Bennett Oakley team, the rebrand has been just as much about people as it has about design. Updated photography captured by Sussex photographer Stephen Lawrence, and refreshed team profiles give clients a clearer sense of the people behind the firm. The process also encouraged staff to reflect on career progression and professional identity, strengthening internal alignment at a pivotal moment of growth.

Samuel Cash, Operations Director at Bennett Oakley Solicitors, said:

“The brand launch has been an exciting time for the team. It gave us the chance to review our profiles and progression, have our photos taken professionally, and come together as a team. The result is a brand that truly represents who we are now and how we work.”

Bennett Oakley worked in partnership with Detail (We Are Detail), an award-winning Reigate-based website development, SEO and branding agency, to bring the new identity and site to life. The collaboration focused on creating a brighter, bolder and more contemporary visual identity while retaining the firm’s professional gravitas.

Explore Bennett Oakley’s new brand and website to learn more about their services and team:

www.bennettoakley.co.uk