Running a business for 150 years is no small feat, especially in a city as dynamic as London. At Laytons ETL, our century-and-a-half legacy is more than a historical milestone; it’s a testament to our enduring commitment to clients, our adaptability to change, and our unwavering dedication to the highest standards of legal practice. Here’s why our longevity matters – and what it means for those who choose to work with us.
A Deep Well of Experience
One of the most significant advantages of a law firm with a 150-year history is the breadth of institutional knowledge passed down through generations. Since the founding partnership of Edward John Layton, his son Edward John Stubbs Layton, and William Lendon was officially recorded in The London Gazette in 1875, the firm’s practitioners have navigated countless shifts in the legal and economic landscape. This accumulated experience translates into:
Informed Advice: Historical precedents and proven strategies guide our modern solutions.
Resilience: Surviving and thriving through periods of global change: from the Victorian era to the digital age, we understand how to balance tradition with innovation.
Credibility in the Eyes of Clients and Partners
Longevity sends a powerful message about credibility and stability. Clients seeking legal services often prefer a firm that not only knows the law but has also demonstrated consistent success over time.
Trust Built Over Generations: A 150-year timeline creates a robust reputation. According to a 2021 study published in the Harvard Business Review, businesses with long histories are more likely to foster trust among new and existing clients.
An Ongoing Commitment: The continuity of Laytons ETL reflects our pledge to uphold standards in every case and transaction.
Adaptability to Modern Challenges
Our origins date back to the late 19th century, but Laytons ETL never stopped evolving. From adopting new technologies to expanding our practice areas, we ensure our tradition of excellence aligns with twenty-first century client needs. This commitment to adaptation includes:
Technology Integration: Whether leveraging legal research platforms, embracing secure digital communications or using AI, we continuously upgrade to serve clients efficiently.
Global Perspective: Our legacy in the City of London allows us to anticipate and interpret emerging global trends which is crucial for advising clients in an interconnected world. This coupled with the fact that most of our personnel speak at least one other language.
A Sustainable Approach to Client Relationships
Longevity isn’t just about being in business for a long time; it’s also about fostering long-standing relationships that thrive. Laytons ETL’s approach focuses on partnership, offering counsel that guides clients through changes in their own industries and lives.
Consistency Over Time: We’ve helped generations of businesses and families manage legal complexities.
Holistic Perspective: Understanding a client’s history allows us to tailor advice, ensuring recommendations stand the test of time.
Building on a Legacy for the Future
Edward John Layton and his contemporaries likely never imagined the internet, globalised commerce, or the countless technological breakthroughs we take for granted today. Yet our principles of integrity, excellence, and service remain at the heart of Laytons ETL. We believe longevity also means looking forward:
Continuous Learning: We invest in professional development to ensure each new generation of lawyers is equipped with the skills to innovate while honouring our historic ethos.
Client-Centric Growth: Every expansion in our practice areas, whether it’s data protection or fintech, aims to meet the evolving demands of our clients, now and in the future.
Final Thoughts
At Laytons ETL, 150 years in business is more than a number—it symbolises our promise. Our history is a foundation upon which we build contemporary, forward-thinking legal solutions. When clients choose Laytons ETL, they benefit from a legacy of trust and reliability, combined with a modern approach to the practice of law.