At the end of a busy day, Charlotte Knappett pauses to reflect, finding a moment of gratitude that reminds her of what truly matters.
“It’s such a simple thing,” she says, “but it teaches you to really sit in your successes – even the small ones – and reflect on your gratitude for those around you.”
It’s a grounding practice that mirrors the reflective, people-centred leadership style she has brought to law firm Fisher Jones Greenwood (FJG) for more than two decades – and now carries into her new role as Senior Partner.
Charlotte’s appointment, which stands alongside her role as Head of Family Law, marks a major moment for the leading regional law firm and proud Lawfront member, coinciding with the retirement of FJG’s co-founder and human rights lawyer, Tony Fisher, after 42 years at the helm.
Calling her new strategic role alongside CEO Paula Fowler a “milestone”, Tony praised her as someone who has “devoted herself to maintaining our culture of respect and excellent client service”.
After completing her Law degree, Charlotte worked at FJG in an administrative role before deciding to pursue her LPC, for which she was awarded a distinction. She then returned to the firm to undertake her training contract as a Trainee Solicitor. Over more than two decades with FJG, Charlotte has progressed to lead its Tier 1 Family Law team.
“I’ve been privileged to grow within a firm that backs its people,” she says. “My gender never defined my path here.”
Yet she is acutely aware not all women in law have the same experience. She recalls participating in national Women in Leadership in Law roundtables and realising the level of adversity faced by other women in the profession. It cemented her commitment to inclusive leadership, championing flexibility, emotional intelligence and collaborative working.
FJG has a strong track record of investing in its people, with a clear focus on supporting women throughout their legal careers. The firm creates genuine pathways to leadership through mentorship, professional development and flexible career structures that enable women – and all team members – to achieve success and thrive.
“My greatest successes are our people,” says Charlotte. “Our engagement surveys show they’re happy. They’re progressing in their careers and growing to advise on new areas for Family Law, like special educational needs.”
As she steps into her new strategic role, Charlotte’s ambition is clear: to continue driving growth while nurturing the next generation.
“If I can be even an ounce of what Paula Fowler has been for me – enabling someone to believe in themselves – I’ll be incredibly proud.”
And her advice for women going into law?
“Our profession thrives because of diverse experiences, perspectives, and journeys. Whenever you start your legal career, I would say set your goals and be ambitious. These may evolve throughout your career. Always believe in your value, whilst respecting the true value of others around you.
“I would also say create a community around you, from within your firm and externally, identify mentors and ask for support. Opportunities do not always come to you, so seek out those that inspire you and be yourself.”
Charlotte’s leadership aligns closely with FJG’s wider strategy of strengthening the firm through organic progression, welcoming lateral talent who share its values, and strategically pursuing external growth that deepens its regional and specialist capabilities.
