WORK IN PROGRESS · OCTOBER 2026

Building a practical ESG framework for JMW Solicitors

JMW Solicitors appointed me to develop a practical, firm-wide environmental, social and governance (ESG) framework. The 12-month programme is under way, bringing together a review of current arrangements, peer learning, policy and strategy development, staff training, committee support and the firm’s FY27 SECR report.

JMW Solicitors office interior with JMW signage

THE STARTING POINT

Connecting existing activity with the questions clients are asking

At the October 2026 kick-off, JMW described a mix of existing activity, including a CSR committee, an environmental policy and established compliance training. The team also said that ESG questions were appearing in client and tender work, sometimes with very short response times.

The opportunity is to understand what is already working, identify the firm’s most relevant priorities and bring the evidence and responsibilities together in a framework people can use. The programme will consider JMW’s group-wide operations, with the reporting boundary and office coverage being confirmed as the work develops.

THE APPROACH

Start with the firm’s real operations and material issues

JMW Solicitors team gathered outside a glass-fronted office with JMW signage

The first phase reviews JMW’s existing arrangements and compares relevant peer practice. Brabners and Weightmans were discussed as possible comparators at the kick-off. Up to three stakeholder interviews will add perspectives from across the firm, including leadership, people and office operations.

That evidence will inform a focused materiality assessment and a documented ESG policy, followed by a practical strategy and manual. The intended procedures cover objectives, monitoring and reporting, office leasing and operations, client due diligence, and staff induction.

The wider programme also includes a one-hour employee training session, guidance at four quarterly ESG or CSR committee meetings, and preparation of JMW’s FY27 Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) report in 2027, using the agreed reporting period and data.

CURRENT STATUS

The programme is under way

The kick-off established the first review priorities: gather existing ESG guidance and carbon reports, understand how the firm currently responds to client and tender questions, and hear from people responsible for governance, people and facilities.

This case study is an early draft. It will be updated as the review, interviews and strategy work progress, with outcomes added only when they are evidenced and agreed for publication.