A&O makes big US push with Shearman & Sterling merger
Magic circle firm Allen & Overy announced a merger with renowned US practice Shearman & Sterling yesterday to create a combined business with revenue of $3.4bn (£2.7bn).
Unbundled family law service “reaches new market” of litigants in person
An unbundled family law service aimed at people who cannot afford to instruct a solicitor has “reached a new market” and delivered very positive results, researchers have found.
General counsel set out modern demands of external law firms
Most companies expect external law firms to offer a flexible workforce, advanced technology and advice on how to use data to achieve a competitive advantage, new research has found.
Barrister with assault conviction fined for drink driving
A barrister who was suspended for four months in 2020 following an assault conviction, has been fined £5,500 by a Bar disciplinary tribunal for drink driving.
SRA sanctions another solicitor “unaware” of being partner at firm
A lawyer who claimed she was unaware that she was a law firm’s partner has been sanctioned by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), two years after another partner said the same.
No cab-rank rule breach – yet – for barrister signatories of eco-resolution
The BSB will not take action against barristers who have committed not to prosecute climate protestors or work for fossil fuel companies – at least until they actually refuse instructions.
SRA rejects Law Society call to levy profession for SIF funds
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has resisted pressure from the Law Society to impose a levy on the profession “as soon as possible” to raise funds for the Solicitors Indemnity Fund.
Disciplinary tribunal condemns Blavo’s “industrial” dishonesty
The dishonesty of John Blavo, whose legal aid firm made £22m of fraudulent claims on public funds, was “committed on an industrial scale”, a tribunal has said.
Solicitor rebuked for multiple rule failures caused in part by Covid
A solicitor who admitted to a “serious breach” of the accounts rules – in part due to the impact of Covid – has escaped with a rebuke from the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Exclusive: Lawfront eyes five more acquisitions to build £100m group
Private equity firm Blixt Group is looking at up to five more acquisitions to reach its target of building a £100m national legal services business, its chief executive has revealed.
