From law to life-changing challenges
For more than 40 years, David Banks has worked at the sharp end of family law, specialising in care proceedings and complex cases where outcomes truly matter. Alongside his colleague Andrew, he helped grow Prism Family Law from a two-person practice into a respected, successful firm.
Known for taking on cases others might walk away from, the team developed a reputation for determination and compassion in equal measure. That same mindset would later form the foundation of Lawyer on the Run, where challenge is embraced and effort always serves a greater purpose.
When everything changed
The spark behind Lawyer on the Run was deeply personal. When David’s son James was diagnosed with leukaemia, charity stopped being an abstract idea and became something urgent and real. Fundraising took on new meaning, beginning with the London Marathon for Leukaemia UK.
What started as a single challenge quickly escalated. Longer distances, tougher events, and bigger ambitions. Each run became a way to process, to push forward, and to give back. The miles mattered, but the motivation behind them mattered far more.
Growing beyond the challenge
As challenges grew, so did the people around them. Marathon plans expanded into multi-event endurance campaigns, including six-marathon challenges and a 1,000km walking goal involving five participants. Lawyer on the Run became a collective effort with runners, walkers, supporters, and friends all pulling together.
The aim was never exclusivity. Whether someone could run, walk, volunteer, or simply encourage from the side-lines, there was always a role to play. Fundraising stopped being about one person and became about shared momentum and community spirit.
Looking straight ahead
A long-standing relationship with St Oswald’s Hospice has shaped the heart of Lawyer on the Run. From committee involvement to organising a charity ball that raised £47,000, the connection runs deep. The work of the hospice reinforced the belief that fundraising can be hopeful, positive and empowering.
With support from colleagues like Charlotte Browning, whose own charity challenges strengthened the mission, plans are now firmly focused on expanding reach, supporting more causes, and proving that purposeful action can always go further.
Learn more about the charities we support