The origins of Abbotts & Co Lawyers.

Abbotts & Co Lawyers is a fresh and vibrant law firm established in the summer of 2023. However, the origins and inspiration of the firm stretch back much further in time.

In this introductory blog we recap on the road so far and explain where our drive to break free of the traditional approach to law stems from.

The road so far …

Our Principal Kieran Abbotts is a proud son of the Macleay Valley. With humble yet happy origins he was taught the value of being honest, respectful, and wherever possible helping those in need.

Kieran credits his upbringing for instilling in him a strong work ethic and a grounded sense of doing what is right and fair.

Kieran’s early years also exposed him to people from all walks of life – from resilient dairy farmers, larrikin labourers, and tough businesswomen. Today he credits this to his ability to connect and have a yarn with just about anyone.

The Abbotts name

Within the Macleay Valley the Abbotts name may already be familiar to some. Kieran is the proud grandson of legendary Bruce ‘Codger’ Abbotts & Nell Abbotts (nee Farley). Both played instrumental roles in Kieran’s upbringing, with kindness, generosity, and a strong sense of community being hallmarks of their West Kempsey home. The “Abbotts” in Abbotts & Co Lawyers refers to them as a sign of gratitude for their support, just as much as it does to Kieran individually.

Solicitor Kieran Abbotts with his cherished grandmother, Nell Abbotts

The memory of Bruce and Nell Abbotts continues to inspire Kieran to look for the silver lining, and always focus on what matters most.

Study hard & find your way

It was while Kieran was studying at St Pauls College in Kempsey that he first heard the law calling. Guided by several dedicated teachers who inspired and encourage his passion for progressive thought and social justice issues he diligently applied himself to his studies. In doing so he ensured he was the first in his family to head off to university.

Solicitor Kieran Abbotts during his high school years, at St Pauls College in Kempsey. Pictured marching in the Kempsey Anzac Day Ceremony, holding a banner with his school emblem

Some five years later Kieran walked away from the University of New England with two degrees and a reputation as a quiet achiever, ready to tear down barriers and breathe some life back into the legal profession.

A wealth of experience

Securing his first legal position across the great dividing range in Tamworth, Kieran packed up his Akubra and headed west. He spent the next six months buzzing up and down Peel Street as a property settlement clerk, with some of Australia’s biggest banks as his clients.

Having sharpened him eye for detail, Kieran was transferred to working in Taree and then again onto fantastic Forster. For the next five years Kieran trained at the feet of some of the areas most experienced and respected legal practitioners. During this period Kieran was also admitted as a Solicitor in the Supreme Court of New South Wales; his admission being passed by his esteemed supervisor and friend, Mr John Vaughan.

Working for five years in a diverse and long-standing practice, Kieran quickly took on a large volume of matters in estate planning, deceased estates, family law, elder law, business law, property and environmental law. Feeling like he had reached the ceiling of advancement in Forster Kieran made the difficult decision to seek out a new challenge, this time heading to the northern end of the Mid North Coast.

In Coffs Harbour Kieran established a small firm solely dedicated to assisting survivors of historical abuse to find their voice and seek justice. This role proved to be an incredible learning experience, allowing Kieran to apply his gentle and reassuring manner in a whole new way. The experience also inspired Kieran to seek out others in the profession who shared his vision of working towards a better, and all round healthier legal industry.

Breaking free

Having collected vast legal, business, and life experience over his 30 years, Kieran felt ‘old enough to know’ yet still young enough to do.’ With the advice and support of his colleagues, he broke free and decided to establish a horse of a different colour.

In leading this new legal venture Kieran was determined to return to his country roots and establish a firm that not only honoured his origins but was also progressive and welcoming to all. Abbotts & Co is not so much about us, rather it is designed to be focused on those it serves.

We hope that in the many years ahead whenever someone on the Mid North Coast thinks of legal support, they will think of us and feel confident of receiving good old fashion service, delivered in the most modern and efficient way. Like the story of the Mid North Coast, ours is a story of persistent progress, unique personality, and a quiet confidence in the sunny days ahead.

Should you wish to experience the Abbotts and Co way of lawyering please do not hesitate to connect with us; we look forward to hearing your story …