Halliwells switches to LDP with two non-lawyers brought into partnership

Halliwells has become one of the first UK law firms to convert to a Legal Disciplinary Partnership (LDP), with the national firm bringing two non-lawyers into its partnership.

Halliwells' IT director Dene Rowe and facilities director Pam McKay have been appointed to the partnership, following vetting processes imposed by the profession's watchdog, the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

LDPs form a key plank of the Legal Services Act reforms and allow non-lawyers to form up to 25% of the partnership. The changes came into force in March, but to date, Halliwells is one of the few major firms to have taken up the option.

Rowe joined the firm in 2005, taking responsibility for its IT operations, and has played a key role in a number of client wins. McKay, who joined in 1998, was responsible for Halliwells' move to its new Spinningfields office in Manchester.

Halliwells managing partner Ian Austin commented: "We are delighted that the Legal Services Act allows us to formally recognise the important roles Dene and Pam play in the firm. It is a deserved acknowledgement of their efforts and successes to date."

He added: "Although appointing non-lawyers to management positions in law firms is not a new trend, allowing them to become partners is a very progressive step. We fully support it as we are committed to recognising and rewarding our people at every level - [both] fee earners and support [staff]."

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