Paraskeva highlights “unfinished business” of Legal Services Act as she sets out stall at CLC
Real separation of representative and regulatory functions at organisations like the Law Society and Bar Council is “unfinished business” of the Legal Services Act, according to the woman who led the society’s negotiations with the government in the run-up to the Act.
Major survey finds consumers increasingly satisfied with their lawyers
There are positive signs about improving consumer satisfaction with how they find, compare and then use law firms, major research by the Legal Services Consumer Panel has revealed. However, the panel said more vulnerable consumers “are potentially being left behind as those more empowered are able to take advantage of market changes”.
Probate manager who admitted 140 “improper withdrawals” from client accounts blamed pressure of work
A probate manager who admitting making 140 “improper withdrawals” over a period of 11 years, resulting in a client account shortage of £730,000, has been banned from working for law firms. Though he acted recklessly, the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal did not find him dishonest.
Law Society set for governance review as it unveils new strategy
The Law Society is set to review its governance structure as part of a new strategy set against a background of a legal market which it said by 2020 would see more and faster consolidation among law firms, changing employment practices and an increased number of “diverse business models”.
Taking separation seriously: surveyors in country mansion set up ABS in coach house
A firm of quantity surveyors, based in a country mansion in Warwickshire, is setting up an alternative business structure in the coach house. Solicitor Warren Berwick said clients needed a “clear distinction”.
Lawyers should collaborate with ‘robots’, Law Society president says
Lawyers should use artificial intelligence to improve their work, drive efficiencies, increase accuracy and retain clients, the president of the Law Society has said. However, Jonathan Smithers said “expert intervention by lawyers” would always be needed.
Dispute looms over how Law Society can spend practising fee income
A “potentially high-profile and contentious” dispute between the Legal Services Board (LSB) and the Law Society is looming over how the latter spends money derived from practising fees. The LSB is to review its 2009 Practising Fee Rules after a hole was found in the Legal Services Act 2007.
Conveyancing solicitors acting for both sides must report crucial details to lenders, appeal judges rule
Solicitors acting for both sides in property transactions are under a duty to disclose crucial details to lenders, the Court of Appeal has ruled. They are not expected to act as a “detective or bloodhound”, but should report adverse “non-confidential information”.
ABS update: Parabis, Slater & Gordon, DAS Law and EY
The Parabis Group – the first law firm to be bought by a private equity business – is on the verge of being broken up, two months after problems first emerged. Meanwhile, England cricket captain Alistair Cook has helped launch a drop-in centre at Slater & Gordon’s flagship Manchester office.
Suspension for barrister who appeared in court without practising certificate
A Bar disciplinary tribunal has suspended barrister Martin Wynne Jones for three months for representing clients in court without a practising certificate, while disciplinary action has also been taken against a barrister who falsely claimed to have a law degree, and another who made false declarations about criminal convictions.
