In this entry of our “Spotlight On…” mini-series, where we shine a light on the people behind the practice, we speak to Josh Williams from Gamlins’ Family Law team.
Josh shares his unexpected route into family law, the mentor who helped shape his career, his connection to Wrexham and what he finds most rewarding about supporting vulnerable clients. He also discusses changes in child arrangements cases, his love of Wrexham AFC and a hidden gem in North Wales.
Background & motivation
What first brought you into your area of law, and what keeps you interested in it?
Chance, really! Family law was the department that needed an extra pair of hands when I started my training. Since then, I’ve come to love the challenge of the work and the opportunity to carry out my own advocacy.
What’s something about your career path that might surprise people?
I started as a conveyancing typist on what I thought would be a summer work experience placement. Seven years later, I was still there and found myself running a very busy Family Department.
Who or what had the biggest influence on the direction you’ve taken?
The solicitor who trained me. He invested so much time in me and backed me every step of the way, including supporting me to become Children Law accredited very early in my career.
Connection to North Wales
What’s your connection to North Wales, and what do you enjoy most about working here?
I was born, live and work in Wrexham.
The people of North Wales make it the best place to work.
Is there a particular place, walk or hidden gem in the region you always recommend to people?
I should gatekeep this ‘hidden gem’ as I enjoy the quiet whilst walking my dog there – Plas Power Woods in Bersham, Wrexham.
Work & expertise
What part of your work do people often misunderstand until they see it up close?
Because of the confidential nature of proceedings, family law isn’t an area that many people know much about until they experience it themselves. That’s often when they realise just how important it is to have accessible, independent legal advice.
Is there a recent change or trend in your area of law that you think people should know about?
There’s a new national Child Focused Model for cases involving child arrangements. For most parents, this should mean quicker resolution of proceedings and an even greater focus on the welfare of children.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job day to day?
Achieving positive outcomes for incredibly vulnerable clients.
Life at Gamlins
What made you choose Gamlins, and what has kept you here?
I wanted to be part of the best family team in North Wales, and to help bring that team to my home town of Wrexham.
What’s something about the team culture that people might not see from the outside?
Everyone is family-minded. If they can do anything to help a colleague focus on their family when it’s needed, they will.
Which colleague has taught you something valuable, and what was it?
I can’t single one out, they are all incredibly knowledgeable!
Just for fun…
What’s something you’re passionate about outside work?
I’ve had a Wrexham AFC season ticket since Ryan Reynolds was Van Wilder, not Deadpool, and before It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia had even started.
If you weren’t doing this job, what else could you see yourself doing?
Training to be a barbecue pitmaster in Texas.
Favourite local spot for lunch?
Vasco De Gama in Wrexham – worth going for the pastel de nata alone!
If you could instantly master a new skill, what would it be?
DIY. I’m absolutely useless at it!
