European law firms to be exempt from SRA oversight despite competition concerns
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has decided to press ahead with plans that would allow European law firms that do not conduct reserved work to set up in England and Wales outside of the regulatory regime.
Peers to investigate Lord Chancellor’s powers amid judicial review concerns
The House of Lords constitution committee has launched an inquiry into the office of Lord Chancellor, in the wake of its warning last week that plans by the current occupant, Chris Grayling, to limit judicial review risk “undermining the rule of law”.
Leading Chancery set brings in solicitor as chief executive
Distinguished Chancery set Radcliffe Chambers has brought in a past chair of the Association of Women Solicitors as its chief executive, in the latest sign of chambers recognising the need for fresh thinking in how they operate.
ICAEW vents frustration over delays to its approval as a legal regulator
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales has described as “increasingly frustrating” its wait to become a regulator of probate services and an alternative business structure licensing authority.
ABI joins critics of lower indemnity insurance limit
The Association of British Insurers has joined the chorus of criticism of the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s decision to cut the minimum level of professional indemnity insurance to £500,000. SRA consultees were opposed by nearly 3:1, it has also emerged.
Solicitor struck off over misconduct
A solicitor best known for his involvement in the failed Axiom Legal Financing Fund, which caused some law firms major financial problems, has been struck off by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
Law Society signs joint venture deal to create conveyancing portal
The Law Society has teamed up with software company Mastek UK Limited to deliver its conveyancing portal, which aims to speed up the home-buying process. The pair have set up a joint venture company called Legal Practice Technologies Ltd.
Slater & Gordon will send out work to Linked to Law members
Slater & Gordon’s (S&G) new Linked to Law network will see cases going both ways between the alternative business structure and member firms, it has emerged.
Naked Legal offers stripped-down advice service
A stripped-down telephone advice service for a single pre-payment fee of £45 was launched this week by legal entrepreneur Brad Askew. Naked Legal does not offer formal legal advice, nor does it refer clients who need that advice to lawyers.
MPs demand SRA crackdown on personal injury lawyers “playing the system”
MPs have called on the government to put pressure on the Solicitors Regulation Authority to stop personal injury lawyers “playing the system” by commissioning unnecessary medical reports on psychological injuries.
