Regulation
New referral network shows model lives on after Connect2Law
A north-west law firm has launched a referral scheme for other solicitors, against a national backdrop where the survival of networks formerly in Pannone’s Connect2Law suggests the model is alive and well.
Solicitor faked email to cover inaction
A solicitor claiming to have become overwhelmed by pressure of work has been struck off after misleading clients that she had made court applications – even faking an email in one instance.
“Overcharging” partner who lied to SRA is struck off
A partner who overcharged clients and then lied to the Solicitors Regulation Authority about sending bills to them has been struck off. A fellow partner was suspended for failing to stop this.
First indemnity insurance for freelance solicitors launched
An insurance intermediary in the City of London has opened the door to the new breed of freelance solicitors by launching the first indemnity cover for them.
SDT clears partner in “accidental overcharging” case
A former head of private client accused of overcharging an estate by up to £30,000 when acting as executor has been cleared of misconduct by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
“Dishonest” ABS owner banned for multiple breaches
A non-lawyer owner of an alternative business structure responsible for multiple rule breaches – including a £3.6m shortfall on his firm’s client account – has been banned.
Solicitor’s “manifest incompetence” in employing banned barrister
A solicitor who employed a banned barrister as a consultant without checking his identity or his record with the Bar Standards Board has been fined £20,000.
Unlimited annual leave policies “work for right firms”
Unlimited paid holiday leave has helped raise overall productivity, improved teamwork and reduced sick leave, according to one of the first law firms to adopt it.
First apprentice qualifies as chartered legal executive
A paralegal at listed law firm DWF has become the first chartered legal executive to qualify through an apprenticeship, an appropriate landmark for National Apprenticeship Week.
Law lecturers demand delay to SQE
Five associations representing law lecturers and academics have urged the Solicitors Regulation Authority to delay the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam.
Blog
Listening, learning and leading The Solicitor’s Charity with care
As I prepare to hand over the mantle of chair of The Solicitor’s Charity next month, it doesn’t feel like an end. Instead, it feels like a wonderful journey.
Is competition in the legal sector stifling innovation?
As the legal sector’s competitive landscape continues to evolve, Nobel laureates remind us that innovation is not inevitable,and that competition may not always be an incentive to innovate.
What high-performing consumer claims firms get right
Recurring concerns about parts of the volume claims sector show that the gap between well-run firms and those struggling to manage volume effectively is widening.
