Nov 2025
Rich Phillips Looks Back on His Successful Beginning at Carbon
banner image

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO JOIN CARBON LAW PARTNERS?

Carbon caught my attention because it actually felt different. The model gives lawyers room to think, breathe, and work with clients in a way that makes sense, not just within the constraints of a traditional firm.

I’d reached a point where I wanted to build things, improve how services are delivered, and spend more time doing meaningful work rather than pushing against outdated structures. Carbon offered the space and mindset to do exactly that.

HOW HAVE YOU FOUND THE SUPPORT FROM YOUR TEAM AND OTHER COLLEAGUES?

Honestly, brilliant. People here genuinely want to help each other.

Whether I’ve needed technical support, a sounding board, or help shaping a new idea, someone has always stepped in. It’s a collaborative environment without feeling forced or performative, just good people doing great work together!

HOW DOES YOUR ROLE HERE AT CARBON DIFFER FROM PREVIOUS POSITIONS YOU’VE HELD?

My role now is a mix of legal work, developing new services, refining processes, and supporting others where I can. That blend didn’t really exist in my previous roles.

Before joining Carbon, I often found myself trying to innovate within systems that weren’t built for it. Here, fresh thinking is encouraged, and I’m trusted to get on with designing better ways of delivering private client work.

ARE THERE ANY ASPECTS OF YOUR JOB NOW THAT YOU FIND MORE FULFILLING COMPARED TO PAST ROLES?

Definitely.

I love being able to build – whether that’s the Family Office, the pod structure, or clearer pathways for new lawyers. There’s a sense that the work we’re doing now will benefit clients and practitioners for years to come.

On a personal level, I still get to experience the parts that I’ve always enjoyed about practice: hearing family stories and solving their puzzles. Spending time understanding family dynamics and helping make informed decisions is incredibly rewarding.

WHAT ARE SOME GOALS YOU’RE HOPING TO ACHIEVE IN THE NEXT YEAR WITH CARBON LAW PARTNERS?

This year I’m focused on helping strengthen and streamline our private client and Family Office offering. For me, that means:

· Firming up the Family Office model and showing its value in practice.

· Supporting the development of practitioner pods and clearer training routes.

· Improving processes so work flows smoothly across each team.

· Deepening relationships with introducers and partners who align with how we work.

It’s all about building the right foundations so the Carbon community can grow with confidence.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE CONSIDERING A MOVE TO CARBON?

Ask yourself what you want your working life to look like, and be ready to shape it.

Carbon gives you autonomy, flexibility, and a genuinely supportive community, but it certainly works best if you bring curiosity and drive. If you’re looking for a place where you can do great client work and balance the demands of your lifestyle, Carbon is a great fit.