Breaking Barriers in Law: A Q&A with Yomi Oni-Williams, Founder of Owens Solicitors

Yomi Oni-Williams, founder of Owens Solicitors, is a trailblazer in the legal sector, combining expertise in immigration, family law, and probate with a deeply client-centered approach. A second-generation immigrant and mother, Yomi has built a firm renowned for its empathy, integrity, and impact. In this exclusive Q&A, she shares her journey, leadership lessons, and vision for the future of law.

Yomi Oni-Williams, founder of Owens Solicitors

What inspired you to pursue law, and why focus on immigration, family law, and probate?

I grew up in a large family of seven children, raised by Nigerian parents who valued education as the foundation for success. With doctors and engineers in the family, I was encouraged to study law—not out of pressure but to “complete the set.” Beyond that, I had a natural interest in fairness and advocacy.

Initially, I trained in clinical negligence, which I thought would be my long-term path. However, starting my own family reshaped my priorities. Immigration law, reflecting my identity, felt natural, and family law, wills, and probate complemented this, allowing me to provide a holistic legal service.

Why did you start your firm in 2007, and what were the early challenges?

Flexibility was my key motivation—to be present for my children while doing work I love. Starting out was far tougher than expected. I retrained in a new area of law, worked in isolation in a small serviced office, and faced the pressures of running a business solo. Building a network of supportive professional connections helped me navigate these early hurdles.

Can you share a defining moment from those early years?

When I moved into my office, I didn’t have a single client—just a desk, laptop, and textbooks. It took eight months of networking through church, school, and friends before I secured my first client at a hairdressing salon. That moment was a turning point: it validated my perseverance and marked the beginning of steady growth.

How did you build resilience managing audits, cash flow, and a growing family?

Regulatory audits were initially intimidating, but I learned to view them as tools for compliance. Managing cash flow required discipline and attention, and balancing work and family was challenging. I took each day step by step, leaning on my Christian faith for strength and perspective.

What strategies keep you motivated and focused?

Reminding myself why I started the firm, investing in business coaching, and setting achievable goals are key. Regular self-reflection, celebrating wins, and support from family sustain momentum even during difficult times.

Owens Solicitors is known for client-focused empathy. How do you cultivate this?

From day one, client care has been central. I encourage my team to treat clients as we would want to be treated ourselves. The consistency of positive feedback in Google reviews reflects this culture of empathy and genuine care.

What makes your firm stand out?

We combine legal expertise with personal empathy and social impact. Clients trust us because we genuinely care and build long-term relationships.

Did you have mentors, and how has that shaped your approach?

I didn’t have a mentor starting out, so I navigated independently. That inspired me to mentor aspiring solicitors, offering training contracts, work experience, and guidance. Seeing those I’ve mentored succeed remains one of my proudest achievements.

How has community work influenced your leadership?

Pro bono work is at the heart of our practice. I instil in my team the ethos: “one good turn yields multiple.” Helping those with nowhere else to turn strengthens our values and culture.

Looking back, what are the top lessons you wish you’d known?

1. Cash flow is critical; paper profits don’t pay the bills.

2. Being a great solicitor doesn’t automatically make you a great business owner.

3. Ensure adequate funds to avoid slow growth from bad debts.

4. Delegate; true growth comes when you trust others.

5. Charge your worth from day one.

   
   

Advice for aspiring lawyers and leaders balancing ambition with wellbeing?

Don’t make major decisions when emotions are high. Celebrate wins, be kind to yourself, maintain wellbeing, and delegate where possible. Self-care is essential for sustainable success.

If you could start a movement for positive impact, what would it be?

Every absent parent should provide maintenance for their children. I would create an accessible, enforceable system to ensure all children have a strong start in life.

What legacy do you hope to leave?

I want to be remembered as a solicitor who upheld justice, fairness, and compassion, and as a leader who created pathways for others to thrive in the legal profession.

How do you measure success today?

Professionally, through client impact, staff satisfaction, and financial growth. Personally, through health, peace, fulfillment, and positive contribution to the community.

How can readers connect with you?

My LinkedIn page is the best way to follow my work and connect professionally.