In the next in our mini-series “Spotlight on…” Ben Talbot, Head of Wills & Probate, shares his route into the profession, what he enjoys about being a Private Client solicitor and why he likes working here at Gamlins Law.
What first brought you into your area of law, and what keeps you interested in it?
I originally studied for a degree in Business Economics and Computer Science, and then after University I worked for Halifax for a year, working in their Bereaved Customers Department – dealing with solicitors who were administering the estates of late customers. I liked the idea of the type of work they were doing, helping clients who were going through a difficult time so I decided to go back to University in order to retrain as a Solicitor.
I still enjoy being able to help clients when they are going through a difficult time, after losing a loved one. Sometimes you can see the weight lift off their shoulders when I tell them to just leave everything with me and I will sort it out for them.
What’s something about your career path that might surprise people?
I never had any intention of working in law. In school, we were offered the option to study Latin and I said there was no point because I wasn’t going to become a solicitor. Thankfully it wouldn’t have helped anyway!
Who or what had the biggest influence on the direction you’ve taken?
My Uncle Jim, who is also my Godfather, used to be a Criminal Solicitor in Liverpool. He used to give me a lift home when I worked for Halifax and tell me stories of cases he’d dealt with. He’s actually now written a book about some of his experiences. It planted the seed of becoming a solicitor.
What’s your connection to North Wales, and what do you enjoy most about working here?
When I got together with my wife Sarah, I lived in Liverpool and she lived in North Wales, and as she had two children there was no possibility of her moving to Liverpool so I moved to North Wales. I enjoy the calmness in North Wales, being able to see the green fields and hills when I’m driving to work, rather than being surrounded by concrete in a city.
Is there a particular place, walk or hidden gem in the region you always recommend to people?
I always enjoy walking up Moel Famau, it’s a perfect walk to clear your head and enjoy the countryside, without being too grueling.
What part of your work do people often misunderstand until they see it up close?
I try to be practical and helpful with clients, I use my experience to try to stop making things as scary or intimidating as they think it might be, then find the best possible solution for them.
Is there a recent change or trend in your area of law that you think people should know about?
AI can be very helpful to people, but also quite damaging. I’ve had plenty of correspondence from people, which you can tell has been written by a computer, it leads to people not actually thinking about what they’re trying to achieve and a practical way of resolving matters.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job day to day?
When I see the relief on a client’s face, when they’ve been trying to deal with a loved one’s estate and become overwhelmed by what needs to be done. I can tell them to just leave everything with me and use my experience to deal with it for them.
What made you choose Gamlins, and what has kept you here?
It is the biggest firm in the area and felt very welcoming as soon as I started. The people are nice and the work keeps me busy, which I enjoy. I have worked in places in the past where I didn’t have much work to do and didn’t like it at all.
What’s something about the team culture that people might not see from the outside?
It is professional but friendly and not too overbearing. People are trusted as professionals to do their job and given the chance to do it, without feeling like someone is hovering over them, waiting to tell them off for making a mistake. It makes a much nicer place to work.
Which colleague has taught you something valuable, and what was it?
My daughter Kayleigh works for the firm and has taught me more than I could ever write down.
What’s something you’re passionate about outside work?
Football, I’ve had a season ticket for Liverpool since I was about 16.
Favourite local spot for lunch?
The Glasfryn, just outside Mold has a great menu and lovely views over the hills when you sit outside.
If you could instantly master a new skill, what would it be?
I would be able to play the guitar. My wife gave me lessons for my 40th birthday and I really enjoyed it, I need to spend more time practicing though.
You can find out more about Ben, or contact him here.
