Latest news
LeO recruits team of 30 to tackle claims management complaints
The Legal Ombudsman has recruited a team of 30 to deal with the thousands of complaints about claims management companies it will receive from today, it has emerged.
Lord Chief Justice calls for independent review of legal market
There needs to be an independent review of the operation of the legal market to investigate whether the Legal Services Act 2007 is working and why fees have not fallen in the light of greater competition, the Lord Chief Justice said today.
Top 200 expect more consolidation – even though most think mergers to date have not succeeded
Fewer than half of managing partners at the top 200 law firms think that recent mergers in the market have been successes, new research has found – even though most expect major consolidation in the next two years.
Jailing of former Law Society council member damaged profession, SDT says
The jailing of former Law Society council member Michael Webster for a fraud offence last summer caused “significant damage” to the profession, the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has said.
Innovative flight claims practice completes 10,000th case in less than two years
The innovative flight delay compensation claim practice launched by Cheshire alternative business structure Bott & Co nearly two years ago has just completed its 10,000th successful claim – and has a further 20,000 clients going through its system.
Exclusive: only 13% of home movers choose cheapest conveyancer, major survey reveals
A major survey of 4,500 home movers has found that only 13% chose the conveyancer offering the cheapest fee. The survey also found that people were more likely to recommend their estate agent to friends than their conveyancer.
SRA warns firms of confidentiality risk from law firm M&A
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has warned of confidentiality risks from law firm mergers and acquisitions. It also highlighted dangers arising from cloud computing and complex global business structures.
Quindell in talks to sell legal services arm to Slater & Gordon
Alternative business structure Quindell is in talks to sell an operating division to Slater & Gordon, it was announced yesterday, while due diligence on personal injury file transfers is currently underway.
Barrister rating site not aiming to “undermine the Bar”
A new website which encourages clients to rate barristers aims to help direct access barristers, and “is not looking to undermine the Bar”, its founder has said.
Third law firm fined for involvement in SDLT avoidance scheme
A third law firm has been fined by the Solicitors Regulation Authority for its involvement in a stamp duty avoidance scheme operated by Inventive Tax Strategies.
Blog
Amplifying reach through employee-driven thought leadership
Nine in 10 executives believe thought leadership is critical to building authority, yet only a quarter feel they have implemented a robust strategy.
Divorce escrow: asset sales before final settlement
When significant matrimonial assets are sold before a final financial order is agreed, holding the proceeds safely and neutrally can present real practical challenges.
AML lacks clarity – and standards are suffering
If firms are buckling under the pressure of AML regulations, subject to ever-increasing fines, then something is clearly not working as it should be.
