Debenhams Ottaway celebrates homegrown talent with two promotions

From 1 April 2026, Hertfordshire law firm Debenhams Ottaway celebrates the promotion of Barry Griffin, one of its homegrown salaried partners, to equity partner. This follows five salary to equity promotions in 2024 and highlights the firm’s continued commitment to recognising and developing internal talent at a level few law firms now match.

Barry began his legal career at Debenhams Ottaway in 2013, joining as a legal assistant. Since qualifying as a solicitor in 2016, he has thrived within the firm and is now recognised by many families and professional advisers as a trusted expert in Wills, tax planning and estate administration. As a key member of one of Hertfordshire’s largest and most experienced Wills, trusts and probate teams, he advises clients across Hertfordshire, London and the UK, many of whom have complex business and international assets.

The team also celebrates Theo Knibb’s promotion to senior associate. Theo is another homegrown success story, having joined as a legal assistant before securing a training contract and qualifying in 2019.

(Left: Theo Knibb: Senior Associate – Right: Barry Griffin: Equity Partner)

Both Barry and Theo play a central role in a top ranked team consistently praised in leading legal directories and by clients who see them as their trusted legal adviser:

“I have worked with advisers and lawyers for close to thirty years. Barry Griffin is up there as one of the best to deal with: clear, helpful and delivered as promised within a reasonable fee. Can’t recommend him highly enough.”  Client 

“Theo was kind, caring and very helpful. He explained everything clearly and made sure that he had all the information.”  Client

The firm’s structured career pathway, launched 16 years ago, has supported over 100 internal promotions. One third of the firm’s lawyers and partners, including its Managing Partner, began their careers as trainees.

Managing Partner Susan Glenholme comments: “Seeing colleagues like Barry and Theo progress through the firm and achieve these milestones is something I’m incredibly proud of. Their success reflects our longstanding commitment to developing people from within and giving them every opportunity to grow. When talented individuals choose to build their careers with us, it strengthens our firm, supports our clients, and reinforces our longterm trusted adviser relationships, helping clients with the legal side of both their personal and business lives.”