Debenhams Ottaway has just announced a major investment in a state of the art IT system. The multi award winning Peppermint Legal Service Platform will replace Debenhams Ottaway’s existing systems with the next generation of legal software. It will provide a single integrated system for all aspects of their business from client information and documents to case management and finance.
It forms part of a major overhaul of the IT system by the firm in the last 6 months. This included moving to the cloud in December, giving its lawyers access to the systems at all times from anywhere in the world. The ten year contract will be rolled out in both St Albans and Radlett to its 100+ staff.
Over the last 12 months Debenhams Ottaway has seen a significant increase in the amount of work it receives. Maintaining its excellent client service record in this environment is key to Debenhams Ottaway. Along with the new IT systems, the firm is also investing in its people. It has undertaken a major recruitment campaign, bringing the number of lawyers to 68 to ensure it meets the growing needs of its business, family and individual clients. It has retained over 75% of its trainee solicitors who qualified with the firm at the end of last year and promoted four of its solicitors to Associate level, recognising their hard work and giving them greater client responsibility.
It was the only law firm listed in Grant Thornton’s top 100 businesses in St Albans in 2014.
Chief Executive Ian Hopkins comments “since I joined Debenhams Ottaway in 2010 I have focused on transforming the firm in to a modern, client focused business whilst still keeping all the benefits of its heritage – experience, knowledge and strong roots in the community. We continually meet and exceed our clients’ expectations with 98% being prepared to recommend us to family and friends. This couldn’t be done without the excellent team we have here who have the energy and imagination to think differently. I look forward to another exciting year as we strive to continue.”
The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.
Related insights
Top tips for managing supply chain risk and compliance
For many SMEs, suppliers are critical to day-to-day operations. But when something goes wrong, particularly involving data or cybersecurity, the impact can be significant and often difficult to recover from…
Read moreSpring clean your property plans: get prepared for buying or selling your home
Spring is often seen as a time for fresh starts, and that applies just as much to your property arrangements as it does to your home. Whether you are planning…
Read moreThinking of selling your business? Here’s how to get it right
If selling your business has been sitting on the “maybe someday” list, you’re not alone. Although the wider economic climate remains cautious, there are always owners who need or want…
Read moreDebenhams Ottaway’s Employment Law Round Up – April 2026
Click the links below to read more about some recent and upcoming changes in employment law: Job offer imposed obligations restricting employer’s right of withdrawal Government proposes to prevent misuse…
Read moreManaging disputes and protecting your cash flow
Disputes are an unfortunate but common part of running a business. Late payment, disagreements over contract terms or a breakdown in a trading relationship can be commonplace and can often…
Read more