Week one of lockdown: new enquiries dived, furloughing began
The first week of the coronavirus lockdown saw new enquiries fall by up to 60% and firms start furloughing staff at once, research by a leading consultant has found. But they are “up for the fight”.
Exclusive: SRA to regulate National Accident Helpline
National Accident Helpline is giving up its authorisation as a claims management company and will in future be overseen by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Legal Futures can reveal.
SRA: Client-care letters not compulsory for emergency wills
Solicitors can give client-care information verbally if a client urgently needs a will due to the coronavirus, the Solicitors Regulation Authority has confirmed.
Simpson Millar buys PI practices and is on the hunt for more
National law firm Simpson Millar has demonstrated its confidence in the post-coronavirus future by buying its second personal injury book of business in the past few months and targeting more.
Barrister suspended for headbutting female colleague
A senior barrister who headbutted a junior female member of chambers during a drunken row, leaving her on the ground with blood all over her face, has been suspended for three months.
Coronavirus hits SRA’s plan to target AML laggards
The coronavirus crisis has hindered the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s efforts to pursue law firms that have ignored its efforts to check they are complying with its anti-money laundering rules.
In-house lawyer facilitated sham £16m property schemes
A solicitor who acted as head of legal and a “puppet director” for a variety of companies involved in sham £16m property schemes has been struck off.
Daughter in CoP case questions “second-rate” Skype justice
An academic who was present at the first Court of Protection hearing to be conducted over Skype last month has raised concerns over its impact on relatives and witnesses.
Budget rejection lays bare Legal Ombudsman crisis
The Legal Ombudsman has hit crisis point again after it was forced to backtrack on its request for a 20% budget rise, with the Legal Services Board describing its performance as unacceptable.
Negligent firm ordered to pay €3.5m to property investors
A defunct Italian law firm that operated in London has been ordered by the High Court to pay €3.5m to investors in a failed holiday development that allegedly had links to the Mafia.
