Simple, direct service fuels business success
In a world that gets ever more complicated, it is refreshing that a simple, direct service can be the formula for success. That’s what Isla Law, based at Churchill Square Business Centre, offer. But their aims are far from simple: through effective estate planning, they want to change their clients’ lives for the better. Founded by CEO Ruth Pannell, the Kings Hill based firm works with families all over the UK going through illness, incapacity or bereavement, as well as helping them to prepare for life’s curveballs.
Legal services that improve lives
Isla Law Solicitors specialises in Wills, Powers of Attorney, bespoke Estate Plans and After‑Death Services—known to many as probate. Ruth Pannell has worked in private client law for over 12 years, beginning her career in the City advising charities on legacy income after reading English Literature at university. “I saw how complicated planning could be, and I wanted to offer a direct, simple service that actually gets results,” Ruth said.
She named the firm after her daughter, Isla, to remind herself daily of what truly matters: protecting loved ones. Ruth believes Isla Law’s straightforward approach leads to more happiness, healthier relationships and reduced stress for families navigating difficult times.
Standing out from the competition generates business success
What makes Isla Law different? Ruth Pannell explains: “We give our clients time and space, and because we’re small we can be agile in being responsive. We genuinely care about our clients, who tend to be elderly or poorly, but we also bring a high level of expertise.”
From launching the business in her bedroom five years ago to building a garden office during lockdown, Ruth’s focus was always on quality of service over rapid scale. After recruiting a second solicitor and a PA, Isla Law moved into its first professional office in Maidstone—proof that exceptional service naturally drives growth.
Flexible, accessible business centre provides ideal office space
When it was time to find a permanent home, Churchill Square Business Centre stood out. “Capital Space’s simple monthly licence agreement gave us the flexibility we needed over a fixed lease, with the option to move into a bigger space as we grow, and the ground‑floor meeting rooms with accessible parking were perfect for our clients,” Ruth said.
Over the past year at Churchill Square Business Centre, Isla Law has occupied a four to six person office, and is now on the waiting list for a larger unit as the team expands. They rely on the centre’s overflow VOIP services and bookable meeting rooms to ensure every client—especially those with mobility challenges—receives a professional, welcoming experience.
“The staff are really helpful, and I really appreciate all the networking and charity work Capital Space do, which aligns with our values of community and helping people,” Ruth adds.
Slow and steady vision for sustainable business growth
Looking ahead, Ruth’s vision remains “slow and steady wins the race.” Over the next five years, she plans to add another solicitor and paralegal while deepening Isla Law’s specialism in private client work, rather than branching into new practice areas. This measured approach ensures the firm maintains its core values: simplicity, empathy and excellence.
Isla Law’s tips for young solicitors thinking of a career in private client work
- Gain breadth of experience: “Get as much experience in different types of law—you never know what you’ll enjoy until you try it.”
- Find your passion: Law can be routine; passion for your niche makes the work rewarding.
- Build relationships: “Legal work is really all about people. No amount of technical skill can replace genuine client care.”
By keeping processes simple and focusing on genuine client care, Isla Law has transformed a bedroom‑based startup into a growing practice that changes lives.