2025 marks a significant milestone for Clarkson Wright & Jakes, as the firm proudly...
2025 marks a significant milestone for Clarkson Wright & Jakes, as the firm proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary.
To mark the occasion, Andrew Wright, senior partner and great-great-grandson of the founder of the firm, and Amanda Mehlin, managing partner, reflect on the firm’s success.
Founded in 1875, the firm can trace its roots back to Lincoln's Inn, the historic heart of London's legal quarter. For the last 74 years its home and soul are in the leafy suburbs of Orpington where Neville Clarkson Wright (Andrew’s father) took over from his father and established a branch office in the High Street. In 1979, the office moved to Knoll Rise where it still stands today. Being only 20 minutes away from central London by train, and 5 minutes from the M25, clients and staff alike benefit from the location of the firm and ease of accessibility.
With a team of 80 people including 14 partners, it is one of the largest law firms in Kent under one roof. Providing legal advice to people and organisations across a variety of sectors and ranging in size from sole traders to family-owned businesses and large corporates, CWJ has demonstrated its versatility.
Andrew Wright, senior partner, comments: “Our reputation has been built up over five generations and we remain very much a family firm as many of our long-term private clients see us as family friends. We would like to pay tribute to all our clients and the wider business community as without their loyalty and referrals we wouldn’t be here today.
The firm continues to pride itself on giving clear, jargon-free legal advice and we owe our success to following what we like to call the ‘RITE’ values: respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. With the firm scoring 4.9 out of 5 on Review Solicitors [www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk] and ranked as #1 notary in the UK, we must be doing something right.”
Supporting the local community
The firm is involved with charity fundraisers and partners with local schools and sports clubs. CWJ is the main sponsor of Westcombe Park Rugby Football Club which serves as a vital hub for community sports, and both enjoy the social connection this partnership provides. Amanda Mehlin, managing partner, says: “At CWJ it’s important that we give something back to our community and make a positive difference. This year we are fundraising for St Christopher’s Hospice which is a charity close to our hearts as clients and staff have family members that have been looked after by them which makes it all more meaningful”.
Over the last 150 years, the firm has seen a huge shift in the legal landscape, embraced technological innovations, diversity, and flexible working practices while staying true to its original vision of providing a challenging yet supportive work environment.
In 2024, CWJ gained the Good Business Charter Accreditation which is a testament to its commitment to responsible business practices and ethical operations. The firm was also awarded “Best Workplace Wellbeing” by the Modern Law Awards for its commitment to being a supportive employer.
Amanda Mehlin commented: “This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive and positive work environment for our team. We believe that prioritising employee wellbeing not only benefits our staff but also enhances the quality of the service we provide to our clients. This award inspires us to continue improving our workplace practices and reinforces our dedication to excellence in all aspects of our firm”.
As CWJ looks to the future, it stands as a shining example of how a traditional family legal practice can thrive in a rapidly changing world. With 150 years of experience, a commitment to excellence, and a forward-looking approach, Clarkson Wright & Jakes is well-positioned to continue serving its clients with the same dedication and expertise that has defined its remarkable journey.
To celebrate this significant milestone, the firm is hosting a number of events and charity fundraisers throughout the year in which it will be celebrating with clients, contacts and the wider community.
CWJ services include: Corporate and Commercial - Commercial Litigation - Commercial Property - Employment -Estate Administration - Family - Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence - Residential Property - Notarial