Why You Want to Work for Us
Careers at Howard & Over
EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE from normal people
A law firm where people genuinely matter
At Howard & Over, we believe that great legal work starts with great people. We are a long-established award-winning South Devon law firm with a modern mindset, a strong reputation, and a simple philosophy: we’re normal people who just happen to be experts in law.
Founded in 1914, we’ve grown from a traditional high street practice into a forward-thinking firm with offices in Plymouth, Ivybridge and Newton Abbot. While we’re proud of our history and deep roots in the local community, we are equally focused on the future – investing in our people, our systems and our culture to ensure Howard & Over is a place where careers genuinely flourish.
If you’re exploring why you want to work for us, and you’re looking for a firm that values approachability as much as expertise, ambition alongside balance, and progression based on potential rather than hierarchy, you’ll feel at home here.
What our team say
Why You Want to Work for Us
Leadership that’s visible, inclusive and invested
We are led by Managing Partners Katherine Millman, Donna Baker and Tim Quinn, who play an active, hands-on role in the life of the firm.
Our leadership team remain client-facing and lead by example, working closely with teams across all of our offices. Rather than operating at a distance, they are involved in the day-to-day running of the firm, mentoring generously, supporting individuals and taking the time to understand people as well as the work they do.
As a result, Howard & Over is a place people genuinely want to stay – and a key reason why you want to work for us – a firm that legal professionals actively seek out. This is something we are incredibly proud of.
Our leadership style is collaborative rather than hierarchical. Titles don’t define value here. Every role matters, every contribution is respected, and everyone is treated as an important part of the team.
A supportive, down-to-earth culture
One of the things our team value most about working at Howard & Over is the culture: friendly, open and refreshingly unpretentious.
We work hard, support each other and treat every role as important. From trainees and legal assistants through to partners, everyone is approachable and everyone’s contribution matters. There is an open-door policy across the firm, and issues are dealt with early, fairly and constructively.
We’ve deliberately preserved a close, family-style culture as the firm has grown. That means knowing people as individuals, not just job titles – understanding strengths, ambitions and challenges, and supporting people to do their best work in a way that’s sustainable.
Success is recognised and celebrated, and people are encouraged to be themselves at work.
Investment in people, not just performance
We know that people do their best work when they feel valued and supported. That’s why we invest heavily in:
- Ongoing training and mentoring
- Regular appraisals and open feedback
- Clear systems and processes that support quality work
- A positive working environment across all offices
- Enhanced holiday entitlement and a generous bonus scheme
We also understand that life exists outside of work. Our leadership team actively model work-life balance, demonstrating that a successful legal career does not have to come at the expense of family, well-being, or personal fulfilment.
Real progression and genuine career pathways
We don’t believe in static roles or limited ceilings. Progression at Howard & Over is real, visible, and actively supported.
Many of our trainees go on to become fee earners, and we have a strong track record of developing people internally rather than looking elsewhere. Talent is identified early, nurtured consistently, and supported with training, mentoring, and opportunity.
Career development here isn’t just about qualification – it’s about confidence, responsibility, and growth over time. Clear pathways exist for those who want to progress, whether into specialist roles, leadership positions, or partnership.
We are proud of the many individuals who have grown their careers with us, including team members who joined in junior or non-fee-earning roles and are now senior leaders and partners within the firm. Success is not reserved for a select few; it is encouraged wherever potential is seen.
Respected in the community and the profession
We are well regarded not only by our clients, but by other professionals across the region. Our reputation is built on trust, technical excellence, and exceptional client care.
Clients value our clear, jargon-free advice and practical approach. Professional contacts value our integrity and collaborative way of working. And increasingly, other law firms recognise Howard & Over as an award-winning firm on the rise.
We are proud of our strong community connections across South Devon and the South Hams, and of the long-term relationships we’ve built with individuals, families, and businesses over generations.
If you’re looking for a law firm where you can build a career, be yourself, feel supported and make a real contribution, this is why you want to work for us – and we’d love to hear from you.
Our unique values
Small but mighty
Proud to be a regional expert
People first
Many of our clients go on to become friends
Service focus
Dedicated to providing exceptional service
Respecting others
Treat colleagues with respect and fairness
Act with integrity
Be honest and supportive
Collaboration is key
We’re all team players
Current Posts
Head of Litigation
Residential Conveyancer – Newton Abbot