During an illustrious 45-year career in law and in business, Tony Fisher has made many pivotal decisions, but one stands out. In the aftermath of the covid pandemic and faced with an aging partnership team at his leading law firm Fisher Jones Greenwood (FJG), the business was at a crossroads. Then in 2021 FJG became part of the Lawfront group, a decision which has transformed the landscape for its staff and clients.
From its inspiring and welcoming new headquarters at The Tower in Phoenix Square, Colchester, FJG is experiencing a new phase of growth, underpinned by significant investment from Lawfront. The backing has funded digital transformation, team expansion, professional development and capital improvements, placing FJG on a strong trajectory for the future.
In less than four years, FJG has evolved from a respected regional law firm into a key player in a broader national network. The firm’s success has been bolstered by Lawfront’s long-term, partnership-led model, which combines strategic investment with a commitment to preserving local expertise and client relationships.
Tony Fisher, who over 40 years ago started the firm that was to become FJG and is now Chairman, said: “Our new headquarters in Colchester is just the latest example of the investment which has transformed the business. From the discreet client area to the collaborative spaces and future-proof infrastructure, it is entirely designed around our business needs, how we work now and how we will work in the future. Becoming part of Lawfront has put us in a strong position to expand, adopt new technologies and continue delivering a client-centred service so we are in pole position for further expansion.”
Tony began his Colchester legal career in 1980, eventually co-founding FJG in 1996 following a series of acquisitions.
“After the pandemic, and with a number of senior partners nearing retirement, it was clear we needed a long-term solution. We were looking for continuity, for investment in our people and for a way to secure the next chapter of FJG’s story.”
It was a pivotal moment. “We decided to see who was interested in acquiring the firm. We wanted to ensure our staff were supported, and that the business could thrive in a changing legal business landscape. Lawfront brought the capital and expertise to help us do that. Their values aligned with ours in terms of what they wanted to do in providing one of the best places to work professionally. We decided that of all the candidates Lawfront were the best and we were proved right.
“Lawfront shared a three-to-five-year vision to build regional hubs like FJG, supporting acquisitions and investing in sustainable, client-focused services.”
Axel Koelsch, Chief Operating Officer at Lawfront, explains, “Our investment in this flagship Colchester office for FJG demonstrates how Lawfront’s partnership model delivers; strategic support and capital working together to help firms grow and enhance their client offering.”
Tony continues, “Emerging technologies enable more efficient ways of working and have accelerated our growth. With the substantial capital investment available to us, we’ve launched a two-year IT project to roll out advanced systems across the group—embedding leading platforms that enhance client experience and support best working practices.”
Tony said the investment in FJG’s teams had contributed to the success of a “generational” change when many department heads decided to retire; “Thanks to the management training and mentoring Lawfront had already funded, we had a new cohort ready to step up. They have brought a renewed sense of energy and created a strong, collegiate atmosphere among what is now called the board.”
Looking ahead, Tony is confident. “We’re in a great place. The foundations are solid, the team is strong, and the investment continues. From our new headquarters, we’re well-positioned for further growth and I’m excited for what’s next.”
