From Four Files to a Thriving Law Firm — How Catherine Wenborn Built Success Through Advice, Authenticity and Action

In the fifth episode of What One Thing podcast, Phil Davenport from Affirm IT Services and Hayley Baxter from Corbar Accounting sat down with Catherine Wenborn, founder and Managing Director of Vines Legal — a specialist family law firm in Chesterfield.

Catherine’s journey began with just four client files, a lot of faith, and the courage to carve her own path when partnership life didn’t quite fit. Sixteen years later, she leads a respected firm built on trust, transparency, and a focus on people.

Her story is a masterclass in steady growth, smart decisions, and knowing when to seek advice.

1. Starting Small — and Smart

When Catherine set up Vines Legal in 2009, she didn’t start with a business plan the size of a legal textbook. She started with four files, borrowed office space, and a clear idea: to give clients confidence and clarity at a difficult time.

Offering a free initial consultation became the cornerstone of her approach — something she still offers today.

“It’s about giving people space to breathe,” Catherine explained. “Family law is personal. Clients need to meet the person they’ll trust with their case before they decide anything.”

Phil connected this to his own experience in IT:

“People buy people. However technical the service, it’s that first conversation — that reassurance — that builds lasting relationships.”

And Hayley nodded knowingly:

“Exactly. It’s the same in accounting. Sometimes the best thing you can give someone is time to talk and a clear plan forward.”

2. Growth That Feels Right

Vines Legal grew the way many successful small businesses do — organically. Catherine’s first hire, Claire Clarke, began as a trainee and is now her co-director, proof that nurturing talent pays off.

“I’ve never wanted to just pick fruit off trees,” Catherine said. “We grow our team organically. It’s slower, but it creates loyalty and quality.”

Phil laughed:

“No wooing involved, then?”

“No,” Catherine replied, “just opportunity.”

That people-first ethos has shaped everything — from the firm’s client care to how they adapt and train the team.

3. From Solicitor to Business Leader

Like many guests on What One Thing, Catherine’s journey shifted from being on the tools to leading the business.
It wasn’t easy.

“Not everything I do now is in my comfort zone,” she admitted. “But it has to be done. Regulation, HR, marketing — all of it matters if you want the business to thrive.”

Phil related:

“That’s the big transition. We all start as the engineer — the one doing the work — then suddenly realise someone needs to steer the ship.”

Hayley added:

“And the hardest part? Making sure your team delivers your vision when you’re no longer the one doing the day-to-day work.”

Catherine tackled that through monthly reviews, open-door communication, and regular team meetings, ensuring everyone stayed aligned and supported.

4. The Power of Asking for Help

After Covid, Catherine hit what she calls her “flat battery moment.” Running a firm through lockdown had drained her, and she knew something had to change.
That’s when she turned to business coaching and leadership training — a decision she calls “the best advice I’ve ever taken.”

Her one thing?

“Take advice from people who know what they’re talking about.”

She explained, “We’re all experts in our own fields — law, IT, accounting — but running a business is a different skill. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

For Hayley, that’s the golden takeaway:

“We always say numbers tell a story, but sometimes you need someone else to help you read it.”

And for Phil, it comes back to systems:

“Outsourcing and expert support free you up to focus where you add value. You can’t be good at everything — nor should you try.”

The Takeaway

From four client files to a thriving 16-year-old practice, Catherine Wenborn’s story shows that success isn’t built overnight — it’s built through steady growth, the right people, and the humility to ask for help.

Because sometimes, the smartest business decision you can make is knowing when someone else has the answer.

🎧 Listen to the full episode: What One Thing Podcast – Catherine Wenborn
💬 Join the conversation on LinkedIn: Follow What One Thing Podcast for weekly insights that help you run your business better — and enjoy it more.