Legal Services Act
LSB stands its ground against critics and warns: you can’t turn back the clock
The Legal Services Board has hit back at continuing criticism of its role and work by insisting that it has a legal duty to take positive action – and that turning the clock back to a pre-Legal Services Act world is not an option.
Law firm ‘broker’ launches with call to “overpaying” in-house counsel
A new law firm ‘broker’ is targeting companies that believe they are overpaying for legal services. The Legal Broker argues that even the most sophisticated clients are having trouble finding value for money and good service from their external lawyers.
LegalForce outlines plans for UK expansion
LegalForce, the US company that plans to build a legal services brand for innovators and start-ups based around a retail space, has stepped up its bid to build a UK network by appealing directly to sole practitioners and small law firms to apply to join.
Chambers becomes first ABS licensed by the SRA without a solicitor
A London chambers has become the first alternative business structure licensed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority that does not have any solicitors. Richmond Chambers LLP is a niche immigration set that focuses on direct access work.
Quindell boss enjoys massive pay rise
The man running alternative business structure Quindell Portfolio saw his pay more than double to nearly £900,000 last year, the company’s annual report has revealed. It has also put the full cost of Quindell’s purchase of three law firms last year at £45m.
Consumer panel calls for radical reform of financial protection arrangements
A single scheme joining up professional indemnity insurance and compensation funds across the whole legal services market – including unregulated providers – should be actively explored, the Legal Services Consumer Panel has recommended.
Law firm attached to new insurance business gains ABS licence
A new insurance business that will also offer wills, probate and family law services is set to go live after its law firm received an alternative business structure licence. It is the first insurance/law firm tie-up that does not involve personal injury claims.
Bar Council faces probe over “undermining” independent regulation of barristers
The Legal Services Board has launched a formal investigation into whether the Bar Council interfered with the independent regulation of barristers over controversial changes made to the cab-rank rule by the Bar Standards Board.
Co-op launches multi-million pound legal services advertising campaign
The Co-operative Legal Services has today stepped up its attack on the legal market by launching its first ever TV and radio advertising campaign. The multi-million pound campaign will air on TV and radio stations across London.
Deloitte warns government: ABSs are not the solution to criminal legal aid reform
The viability of using alternative business structures as a means to offer criminal legal services under the government’s price competitive tendering scheme is questionable, a report by consultants Deloitte has warned.
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.
