Record-breaking West Yorkshire family law firm celebrates 30-year legacy and looks to the future

John Howe & Co, based in Pudsey, West Yorkshire is marking a milestone in its history.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the family law firm, which first opened its doors in May 1994 with John Howe, his wife Gill and his then secretary Tracy. Since then it has developed  into a sizeable practice with clients both nationwide and abroad.

John holds the record for the fastest divorce in English legal history – 5 days – and is one of the leading lawyers acting for Clients in property law in Bulgaria and is regularly   recommended by the Law Society for this purpose.

John, with the assistance of Leeds United, was also involved in navigating the Turkish legal system following the tragic death of two Leeds United fans who were murdered in Galatasaray, and helped with shielding the family from the media attention the case brought.

Over the 30 years of its existence the solicitors practice has developed and gained a renowned reputation not only in this country but also abroad. John has provided training for example to two Italian lawyers in the past who individually joined him on a three month secondment as part of their training.

The firm operates out of a historic building, the original Leeds Co-op Industrial Society headquarters in Pudsey town centre, and the family has a deep connection to the local community. Founder John Howe’s great-grandfather was the police sergeant in charge of Pudsey police station in the early 1900’s, and his legacy continues to inspire the firm’s commitment to the area.

John’s wife, niece, daughter, son and son-in-law are all involved in the firm, together with a new generation of talented young solicitors under his experienced tutelage.

Since its inception in 1994, it has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality legal advisory services to both private individuals and businesses across various sectors.

John Howe & Co. is known for its friendly, no-nonsense approach that combines robust legal principles with common-sense values. This approach has resonated well with clients, contributing to the firm’s ever-expanding clientele and involvement in numerous high-profile cases that have garnered national attention.

The firm prides itself on offering a comprehensive range of services, addressing everything from employment and contracts to family law  divorce, property, corporate law and all forms of litigation.

“It’s hard to believe it has been 30 years since I founded the firm and I’m proud that the family is part of our present and future.  Our mission has always been to provide professional, personal, and effective legal solutions,” said John Howe, founder and partner of John Howe & Co. “We strive to foresee and address potential issues before they become problems, ensuring a smoother legal process for our clients.”

Over the years, John Howe & Co. has significantly grown its private client base and enhanced its reputation for excellence. The firm has been instrumental in the expansion of many clients’ businesses through strategic legal advice and support.

John Howe added: “What is welcoming is that over the years I have been able to see and advise our clients expand their businesses and interests and we are finding that my children are now acting for their children and continuing to provide the support and understanding that we have been able to supply over the years”.

John Howe, who qualified as a solicitor in 1988, has led the firm with a wealth of experience gained in various areas of law. His common-sense approach and legal acumen have been pivotal in establishing the firm’s national presence. John is also a familiar face in the media, often appearing on TV and local radio, and contributing to both local and national newspapers.

Reflecting on the firm’s history and legacy, John Howe added: “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to our core values and to providing unmatched legal services. It’s a privilege to have played a part in our clients’ success stories over the past three decades and look forward to the next thirty years, although I probably won’t be around to celebrate that!”

This is highlighted by the fact that John is still acting for clients he met when he first started out. He said: “I would like to thank all clients who have supported us over the years and allowed me to expand my practice whilst assisting them to develop themselves.”

John Howe & Co. places a strong emphasis on nurturing the next generation of legal professionals by offering a comprehensive training and experience in a variety of legal areas.