Latest news
Consumer panel attacks BSB over price transparency
Access to justice includes information about lawyers’ fees, the Legal Services Consumer Panel has told the Bar Standards Board. It also called for more focus on barristers’ communication skills.
Solicitor fined for breaking referral fee ban – again
A solicitor who broke the personal injury referral fee ban by paying an unlicensed claims management company over £200,000 in only six months has been fined.
Non-litigation justice needed “but robots not answer”
Most people around the world cannot find a just solution to their legal problems, so a new ‘value proposition’ is necessary that provides user-friendly justice at scale.
Gordon Dadds unveils slimmed-down £27m deal for Ince
Listed law firm Gordon Dadds has unveiled a stripped-down deal to acquire Ince & Co that has seen it buy the UK business for £27m, along with a “refined” acquisition strategy.
Blavo told to repay £22m over “endemic” legal aid fraud
The practice of making fraudulent legal aid claims was “endemic” at Blavo & Co, which at its height was one of the largest legal aid firms in the country, the High Court has found.
Tax fraud solicitor struck off despite police plot plea
A solicitor convicted of tax fraud has been struck off, with a disciplinary tribunal rejecting his claim that he had been the victim of a police campaign to “get” him.
Demand for pro bono advice “continues to rise”
The work of pro bono clinics continues to rise, the charity LawWorks has reported, as it argued the case for giving people early access to legal help. It also warned about the risk of digital exclusion.
Exclusive: Simpson Millar owner eyes further law firm investments
The owner of national law firm Simpson Millar is eyeing up further investments, its founder has revealed. It has set up a separate company to make equity investments in law firms.
Staff at listed law firm sign up to discounted share options
Some 192 staff at listed law firm Knights have subscribed for options over the firm’s shares at a discounted price. Listed legal businesses Redde and Anexo have released positive trading updates.
Tribunal issues tax warning after senior barrister’s late payment
Barristers would be “well advised” to make proper provision for tax liabilities given the “episodic” nature of their income, a tribunal has cautioned after upholding a fine against a QC hit by legal aid cuts.
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.
