Celebrating a decade of innovation and success: Cognitive Law turns 10

This year marks a significant milestone for Cognitive Law as they celebrate their 10th anniversary.

Founded in September 2014, Cognitive Law was born out of a need for change in the traditional legal industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a pioneering force in the legal sector, the past decade has been a journey of innovation, growth and remarkable achievements.

The birth of Cognitive Law

Necessity is often the catalyst for innovation, and Cognitive Law is a prime example. The firm was co-founded by Lucy Tarrant and Stuart Gillespie with a vision to revolutionise the way legal services are delivered. At the time, Lucy was a partner in a large regional firm, tied by the conventional constraints of the legal profession: long hours, rigid schedules and relentless fee targets. As a single parent, Lucy found it increasingly challenging to balance her professional and personal life. This struggle ignited her entrepreneurial spirit and desire to create a law firm that offered solicitors the flexibility to manage their time and work on their own terms.

Cognitive Law was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to allow solicitors to work to live, not live to work. The firm offered a refreshing alternative to the traditional law firm model by empowering solicitors to be their own bosses, manage their own clients, and set their own schedules. This approach was groundbreaking at a time when the legal industry was sceptical of ‘challenger firms’ that dared to deviate from the norm.

A decade of achievements

Over the past ten years, Cognitive Law has grown from a single fee earner — Lucy herself — to a nationwide consultancy network of self-employed solicitors who directly reap the rewards of their hard work. This growth has been fueled not only by the firm’s innovative structure but also by Lucy’s unwavering passion for transforming the legal landscape.

The firm’s journey has been marked by several key milestones:

2014: The beginning

Cognitive Law was officially launched in September 2014 with the aim of creating a flexible working environment for solicitors. The firm’s unique approach allowed solicitors to break free from the traditional law firm model and manage their work on their own terms.

2017: Expansion to Liverpool

Cognitive Law expanded its reach beyond Brighton, opening a hub office in Liverpool. This move was a testament to the firm’s growing reputation and its ability to attract talented solicitors who were eager to embrace the consultancy model.

2018: A year of growth and recognition

In 2018, Cognitive Law was honoured with the prestigious Best Legal Service for Recruitment Award at the annual Recruitment Industry Suppliers Awards. This recognition was a proud moment for the firm and validated its innovative approach to legal services.

Later that year, Lucy bought out her co-founder Stuart Gillespie, becoming the sole owner and Managing Director of Cognitive Law. This transition marked a new chapter in the firm’s journey as Lucy continued to steer the company towards greater success.

Cognitive Law also took over the management of the First Friday Lunch Club, a popular networking event for professionals in Brighton and Hove. The event quickly became one of the best monthly meetups in the area, further solidifying the firm’s presence in the local business community.

2021: New beginnings

After spending seven years in the heart of Brighton, Cognitive Law moved its offices to Sussex Innovation, a location that better suited the firm’s growing needs. This move was a strategic decision that reflected the firm’s commitment to providing the best possible environment for its consultants and clients.

In May 2021, Richard Bates joined the leadership team as a director, shareholder, and Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP), bringing with him a wealth of experience and expertise.

2022: Making a difference

Cognitive Law has always been committed to giving back to the community. In 2022, Richard Bates took on an epic cycling challenge, riding from Nice to Nimes to raise money for The Starr Trust, one of the firm’s official charity partners. The journey covered a staggering 475 kilometres in just four days, demonstrating the firm’s dedication to supporting this fantastic Sussex-based charity.

Lucy Tarrant also made her mark on the legal community by becoming the President of the Sussex Law Society, further showcasing her leadership and influence within the industry.

2023: Industry recognition

In 2023, Cognitive Law was awarded ‘One to Watch’ in the Professional Services category at the Sussex Business Awards. This recognition highlighted the firm’s continued excellence and its commitment to delivering top-tier legal services.

2024: Community engagement

This year, the Cognitive Law team had the privilege of volunteering at St Barnabas House, an organisation that provides care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses. The day spent in the gardens of St Barnabas House was a reminder of the importance of community service and the impact that small acts of kindness can have.

Looking ahead

As Cognitive Law celebrates a decade of innovation and growth, they are proud of all they have accomplished. Cognitive Law has not only gone leaps and bounds forward in redefining the traditional law firm model but has also created a supportive and flexible environment where solicitors can thrive. Their mission to make life easier for their consultants and clients remains at the heart of everything they do.

Looking ahead, they are excited to continue their journey, building on the strong foundation they have laid over the past ten years. Cognitive Law remain committed to challenging the status quo, embracing change, and delivering exceptional legal services. Here’s to the next decade of Cognitive Law — a decade that promises even more success.

www.cognitivelaw.co.uk