Latest news
Probe into growth of ‘professional’ McKenzie Friends
The Legal Services Consumer Panel has begun an investigation into the emergence of ‘professional’ McKenzie Friends who charge litigants in person for their services, it has emerged.
BSB considers conduct of litigation “high risk” for barristers
The Bar Standards Board considers barristers conducting litigation a high-risk activity that could result in significant supervision costs and require a hike in practising certificate fees, it has emerged.
Riverview teams up with Legal OnRamp to tackle global bank challenge
Riverview Law has announced a collaboration with US technology pioneer Legal OnRamp to offer a service that can cope with massive regulatory burdens imposed on financial institutions to avoid a repeat of the 2008 banking crisis.
LeO fights off first JR as it warns over dangers of ‘no win, no fee’
The Legal Ombudsman (LeO) has fought off the first judicial review to reach court, brought by a former solicitor unhappy that it had ordered his bill to be slashed. The case, involving a CFA, comes as LeO issues a report outlining problems caused by ‘no win, no fee’ deals.
Leeds firm breaks new ground with trade union ABS
Morrish Solicitors has become the first law firm to take external investment from a trade union. The Leeds practice has formed an alternative business structure with its client, the Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association.
Revealed: LegalZoom soft-launches in UK as Rocket Lawyer outlines plans for major growth
Online giant LegalZoom – said to be the best-known legal brand in America – has soft-launched its UK service with the aim of giving consumers and small businesses “a smarter way to engage with a lawyer”, Legal Futures can reveal.
Legal executives to enjoy same rights as solicitors
Chartered legal executives are set to have full parity with solicitors after the Legal Services Board gave them the right to practise litigation and advocacy independently.
Bar Council and BSB agree protocol to strengthen regulatory independence
The Bar Council and Bar Standards Board have published a protocol for ensuring the latter’s regulatory independence, fulfilling undertakings the pair gave to the Legal Services Board.
Latest firm to go under after failing to find insurance costs 34 jobs
The toll of firms failing to renew professional indemnity insurance continues to rise, with another 34 people losing their jobs after home counties firm Hilliers HRW LLP called in administrators.
Personal injury ABS makes marketing for other professionals its long-term goal
A sole practitioner has joined forces with a claims management and marketing company to form an alternative business structure with the eventual goal of providing marketing for a range of professionals, including lawyers and accountants.
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.
