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Holly Setchfield’s First Months at Ellis-Fermor & Negus

 

About Me…

I completed both my undergraduate and master’s degrees at Nottingham Law School. Whilst at University I was a member of the equestrian society.

I’m passionate about supporting domestic abuse victim-survivors, and I joined Resolution’s Economic Abuse Working Party to help produce the 2024 report ‘Domestic Abuse in Financial Remedy Proceedings’.

Outside of work, I love spending time with Ralph my puppy, exploring the Peaks and camping. I enjoy watching Rugby and going to a Panther’s Ice Hockey game with my best friend. Family is incredibly important to me, and I treasure the time I spend with them especially my 97-year-old Nanna!

I chose to qualify into family law because I enjoyed litigation throughout my training. I found problem-solving and working closely with individuals engaging and rewarding. After gaining broad experience across several legal areas, family law remained my favourite. I pride myself on being supportive, empathetic and understanding.

 

Why I chose EFN…

Working at EFN aligns perfectly with my values through EFN’s strong community presence and genuine commitment to our clients.

During my interview process I met with Joanna Stone who instantly put me at ease and spoke highly of the firm.

Jo Wilbraham was understanding and compassionate throughout the interview process. Her support and empathy reassured me about the role and firm, before I had accepted the offer.

Since joining EFN I have been pleasantly surprised by the warmth and support from everyone. My first three months have flown by, I genuinely enjoy coming to work and ‘Sunday dread’ is long gone.

On my first day at EFN I was introduced to so many lovely people, welcomed with flowers, sweet treats and beautiful cards. Meeting with director, Duncan Lyon, who has since retired, was a memorable moment. He was so kind and sincere. I knew then I had made the right decision to join EFN.

I’ve seen countless examples of EFN’s remarkable culture. Celebrations are always heartfelt and even more exciting when Joanna is preparing the food. The high staff retention makes perfect sense once you experience the environment. Staff genuinely go above and beyond for one another, and clients.

 

Looking ahead…

The future at EFN is inspiring. The firm has ambitious plans for growth, clear goals and a talented team driving it forward. EFN is well known within the community, and I look forward to supporting clients for many years to come. The firm has allowed me to be authentic, improved my confidence and enabled me to be the kind of lawyer I aspire to be.

I’ve witnessed many clients comment how kind staff are and I believe it strengthens their trust in the EFN brand.

I am a strong believer in God’s timing is always right and I’m so grateful I took the opportunity to join EFN. After taking time out of law, I genuinely questioned whether I would return. This industry is stressful, and finding the right role is difficult.

EFN has shown me the positive impact having a nurturing employer can have on both my professional and personal life. I’m grateful to be part of the team.

December 9, 2025

3 min read

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