Latest news
Whiplash savings “this year” even though reforms face delay
Insurers will start pricing in savings from the whiplash reforms this year, even though the changes may be delayed until late 2020, new research has predicted.
Women lawyers face uphill struggle on fees and salaries
Some clients expect discounts on fees for using a female lawyer while women who push for higher salaries are likely to be labelled “aggressive”, a global survey by the Law Society has found. The report concluded that quotas could help… Read More
Solicitor who told secretaries to fabricate letters is suspended
A criminal law solicitor who admitted telling secretaries to fabricate and backdate letters, attendance notes and other documents to regularise his files has been suspended for nine months.
Firm awarded costs over paralegal’s “dishonest” disability claim
A law firm which faced a disability discrimination claim from a paralegal found to have doctored a document used to bolster his case has been awarded costs.
Law Commission rejects lawyers’ plea to narrow AML reporting
The Law Commission has rejected pleas from the legal profession to narrow the rule that all criminal activity that generates funds or other property is caught by the anti-money laundering regime.
Lord Chief Justice “to have veto” over extension of online courts
The government is set to give the Lord Chief Justice the power of veto over what areas of law are moved into an online court system, it has emerged.
New indemnity insurer offers rewards for well-behaved firms
A new professional indemnity insurer is claiming to be the first to offer well-run law firms “direct financial rewards” – such as a full premium rebate in a firm’s fourth year if it remained claims-free.
Asons creditors owed £28m as liquidators bring claim over sale
The liquidators of Asons are suing its successor practice, alleging that the controversial law firm was sold at an undervalue, it has emerged. Unsecured creditors have so far claimed they are owned some £28m.
Solicitor “used counsel and experts’ fees to prop up firm”
A solicitor who held on to money meant for counsel, experts and others for several years so as to aid his firm’s cash flow has been struck off. He only paid those who chased him for payment.
Firms receiving SRA advice “little better on AML than others”
Nearly half of solicitors’ firms that are part of the regulator’s relationship management regime have been referred to the disciplinary process for anti-money laundering failures, it has been disclosed.
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.
