Doubts over SRA plan to offer ‘client account alternative’
Plans to offer solicitors the option of a “third-party managed accounts” instead of the traditional client account have divided opinions, with some criticising a lack of detail and questioning whether the move would reduce fraud.
Dyson: Follow the French lead in embracing online dispute resolution
Lord Dyson has praised a French online dispute resolution (ODR) website for opening up justice and said he hoped “something similar” would be created in this country.
App aims to be Uber for legal and accountancy services
A solicitor has launched an app which he hopes will be the equivalent of taxi service Uber for legal and accountancy advice by allowing consumers to find, connect with and later review their advisers.
Another firm falls foul of ‘social engineering’ telephone scam
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has urged solicitors to be extra vigilant after a north-east conveyancing firm became the latest victim of telephone bank scammers. The firm lost a significant amount from its account.
RateMyBarrister.com brings in the solicitors
The young entrepreneur behind RateMyBarrister.com has expanded the site to include solicitors. William Rees, a barrister based in Cardiff, accepted that this would mean finding a new domain name.
Solicitor fined £305,000 by SDT was motivated by “desire to help”
Nigel Harvie, the solicitor fined a record £305,000 by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) last month, argued that he was motivated by a “desire to help”, it has emerged.
SME-focused comparison site plots “aggressive” expansion after funding boost
A lawyer comparison website aimed at SMEs is poised to begin an “aggressive growth” campaign to win market share, after securing substantial investment 18 months after it launched.
Battle for crime contracts in full swing as leading firms unveil consortium
The battle for criminal legal aid contracts is underway, with Duncan Lewis – which describes itself as the country’s largest legal aid provider – unveiling a consortium that will bid for duty provider contracts nationwide.
ICAEW licenses 48 ABSs in first six months as probate regulator
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has licensed 48 alternative business structures to carry out probate work in its first six months as regulator, it has emerged.
First Polish-owned, Polish-speaking ABS targets East European clients
The first Polish-owned, Polish-speaking alternative business structure opened for business at the start of this month – with the help of a British solicitor. Optimal Solicitors started life as a claims management company before converting.
