Half a decade with gunnercooke: the model that helps my clients thrive 

 
Rashmi Dube, Dispute Resolution Partner, recently marked her 5-year anniversary at gunnercooke. Since joining the firm during the Covid-19 pandemic, Rashmi has built a thriving, flexible practice while forging lasting connections across the business. 

Reflecting on her journey so far, Rashmi shares the moments that have stood out the most to her, both big and small. From her first in-person Symposium to day-to-day conversations with fellow partners. She also explores how the gunnercooke model has supported her growth, offered unexpected opportunities, and allowed her to deliver even greater value to her clients. 

What has been your favourite memory from the last five years at gunnercooke? 

It’s hard to choose just one memory, there have been so many fond ones. I think the first standout moment was meeting everyone for the first time. I joined during the pandemic, so connecting in person at the annual Symposium and the gunnercooke run at Oxford University was truly special. 

But it’s also the little moments: bumping into people in the office, catching up with fellow partners over coffee. There’s an abundance of memories here, big and small, that make gunnercooke such a wonderful place to work at. 

What drew you to the gunnercooke model originally? 

I came from running my own law firm, and I knew I didn’t want to return to a traditional structure. I wanted autonomy, to control my hours, choose my clients, build my own team, and select the partners I work with. gunnercooke offered all of that, and more. 

What really stood out was the supportive environment. As self-employed partners, we’re still looked after. There’s a strong focus on culture and community, and that made all the difference for me. 

How has the gunnercooke model benefited you and your clients? 

For my clients, it’s about flexibility. We can have honest conversations about fees and tailor arrangements to suit them, including retainer work, which has been invaluable for clients who see me as their general outsourced counsel. It offers them better value and commercial insight. 

For me, the benefit is control. I dictate my life and how I work, and that freedom is priceless. 

Has gunnercooke brought any unexpected opportunities or new connections? 

Absolutely, more than I could have imagined. Internally, I now have access to specialists in every area of law, not just across the UK, but also in Europe, the US, and India. 

You might think you can get that elsewhere, but at gunnercooke, we don’t operate in silos. We collaborate and share knowledge. That internal culture opens doors for better client service, a broader professional network, and, quite honestly, more fun. 

How has gunnercooke changed you as a lawyer? 

It’s changed how I operate in so many ways. The model takes care of compliance, financial systems, and marketing support, which means I can focus more on the legal side and on growing my practice. 

I’ve evolved as a professional by collaborating with colleagues and embracing new opportunities. I’ve become a better, more dynamic lawyer because of this environment. 

What’s your biggest motivation? 

Funny you ask, I give talks on this. And in those talks, I say that motivation doesn’t really exist. It’s a muscle we build through habits. 

So, for me, the motivator is simple: taking one step at a time, knowing that I’m improving, learning, and creating that 1% difference every day. That’s what keeps me going. 

What is the most rewarding part of working with your clients? 

My clients are brilliant, they’re open to legal advice, business insight, and the experience I bring as a chartered director and non-executive board member. 

They value that I can offer a complete package, including an ESG perspective. Many of them understand that to get excellent advice, you want someone who’s not only a city lawyer but also has practical boardroom experience. 

Outside of law, what do you feel most passionate about? 

Life! I love learning new things. I’m curious by nature, whether it’s traveling, reading, or trying something new. 

I’ve done a stand-up comedy show (not sure I’ll do another!) and I compete in powerlifting. I thrive on challenges because, really, what’s not to love? Every day is a new day, and every day, we get to make the rules. 

How is the gunnercooke model beneficial to legal professionals as a whole? 

It’s a game-changer, especially for senior lawyers and associates looking for something different. 

You have your own client base but also gain access to firm-generated clients. You’re part of a larger structure that pitches for exciting work, often outside your usual remit. Again, the key difference is collaboration, you’re not in a silo, and you have a real voice at the table. 

More than that, the leadership has taken time to cultivate the culture. They’ve listened to partners, built a collaborative ecosystem, and made sure we’re not just working, we’re enjoying our work. 

What is your top piece of advice for someone just starting at gunnercooke? 

First, welcome! My advice? Get to know as many people as possible. Learn about other partners, because those relationships will turn into collaborations, friendships, and opportunities. 

And if you’re just starting out? Look me up. Let’s grab a coffee. 

To learn more about Rashmi, her work and practice, click here.