Co-op: We’re now the UK’s largest probate provider
The Co-op has declared itself the largest provider of probate services in the UK as its financials continue to improve. Legal services turnover in the first half of 2018 was up 31% and profits quadrupled.
Simpson Millar unveils £50m plan to become leading consumer legal brand
Simpson Millar has unveiled a five-year £50m growth strategy to become one of a handful of consumer legal brands, starting with the acquisition of Liverpool practice EAD Solicitors.
Conveyancers liable for registration error despite mortgage fraud
There is “no public interest” in allowing a negligent conveyancer to avoid liability when they did not know that their client was actually engaged in mortgage fraud, the Court of Appeal has ruled.
BSB: Telling would-be clients they can ask for a quote shows transparency
Making chambers’ websites tell clients that they may contact the set for a quote “demonstrates a commitment to transparency and facilitating ‘shopping around’”, the BSB has insisted.
Standard of proof: Barristers warned against “defensive lawyering”
It would be “extremely disappointing” if barristers became more defensive in their behaviour once the standard of proof for disciplinary matters was lowered, the BSB has said.
Hale to lead Supreme Court in solicitors’ negligence case
The president of the Supreme Court is to head the five-judge panel that will review what needs to be proved when a solicitor is sued for failing to advise a client of a potential claim.
Law firm rebuked after overcharging for deputyship work
A Dorset law firm has been rebuked after taking more money in costs than it was entitled to from a man subject to a deputyship order.
Tories hold off Labour changes to Civil Liability Bill in 23 votes
The government stood firm against Labour efforts to amend the Civil Liability Bill yesterday, although indicated that it might move on cases involving children.
Positive start to listed life for one of law’s latest PLCs
The credit hire and legal services group that floated in June has announced positive maiden results as a listed company as it looks to expand its fee-earning capacity.
Fine for solicitor repeatedly caught drink-driving
A solicitor who was caught drink-driving three times in four weeks has been fined £8,000 – reduced to £2,000 due to his finances – by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
