Law firm makes the semi-finals for three awards

Good things

come in threes

Dedication to providing opportunities for young people and out-of-hours service has seen this firm qualify in three categories

of the Niche Business Awards 2021 WORDS BY KERRY SMITH

They say being nominated for an award has many benefits. From employee engagement to brand awareness, award nominations certainly mean a lot to those on the receiving end, especially small, independent businesses. To then be shortlisted as a semifinalist must multiply the benefits. But to be named a semi-finalist in not just one but three categories must be exceptionally gratifying.

BP legal is a semi-finalist in the Best Small Business, Best Customer Service, and Rising Star categories of the Niche Business Awards 2021. Bhumika Parmar established the firm 12 years ago in a small office with just one computer. She now employs three solicitors, a trainee solicitor, and some support staff.

The company commits to building good rapport and strong working relationships with clients, fellow solicitors, and other professionals. To accommodate client needs, the team operates an out-of-hours phone line, diminishing the idea that solicitors operate only on a 9 to 5 basis.

Bhumika said: “We believe this is crucial for many clients as they may not be able to contact us during the day due to work commitments. This contributes to our differing nature from other firms. It reinforces the notion that our services are accessible always.”

Bhumika is keen to provide opportunities for young people entering the law sector. Most of her team started with her as training solicitors and have worked with her to qualify.

She commented: “So many doors were shut on me when I was starting out. This is why I am very open to having work experience students because I know what it was like. Someone once took a chance on me as a new solicitor, and it was that chance that led to me being able to set up my own practice and continue the work I love.”

Over the years, Bhumika has appeared in various news, radio, and television programmes. Her role in a Pro Bono asylum case for Afusat Saliu to support her right to remain in the UK attracted global media attention. And, her work leading the case of Chandegra v Pankhania (2012), which reached the High Court, is now is a principal case featured in textbooks referred to by tutors at various institutions.

Trainee solicitor Reema Patel, who will qualify as a solicitor this year, said: “It is this reallife experience that we require to qualify and knowing there is someone who believes and supports you on that journey and will take the time to help you is great. Education in the workplace is vital and helps you appreciate the industry and have real-life learning experiences.”

Harpreet Kashb, a solicitor at BP Legal, is a semi-finalist in the Rising Star category. The 31-year-old said: “I feel honoured. I take this opportunity to thank Bhumika and team BP Legal for nominating me and encouraging me to be the best that I can. Wishing all those who have been shortlisted the best of luck.”

Keep up to date with the Niche Business Awards 2021 online after finalist announcements on July 6.

SO MANY DOORS WERE SHUT ON ME WHEN I WAS STARTING OUT. THIS IS WHY I AM VERY OPEN TO HAVING WORK EXPERIENCE STUDENTS BECAUSE I KNOW WHAT IT WAS LIKE