SRA builds relations with high-impact firms
The introduction of relationship management – giving certain law firms a dedicated contact at the Solicitors Regulation Authority – is working for both sides, new research has indicated. However, a fifth of firms consider complying with OFR is too expensive.
Unrated PII insurers still tempting hard-pressed firms
Unrated insurers continued to share more than a fifth of the professional indemnity insurance market at the last renewal round, while the Solicitors Regulation Authority mulls whether to force them to ‘get rated or get out’ of the business.
Are small claims becoming a new law firm battleground?
Law firms are starting to see the opportunities in small claims after Liverpool firm Morecrofts launched a flat-fee service, allied with unbundled pieces of advice, to aid potential claimants.
New mortgage rules “threaten future of smaller law firms”
The launch of the mortgage market review will have a “dramatic impact” on the conveyancing industry, resulting in further polarisation, one of the country’s leading property firms has predicted.
Fairpoint outlines ambition to build Simpson Millar into a consumer brand
AIM-listed Fairpoint Group wants to see its soon-to-be-acquired law firm, Simpson Millar, become a recognised consumer legal brand, its chief executive has told Legal Futures. He also confirmed that its financial backing will enable Simpson Millar to accelerate acquisition activity.
From ABS to LSB – BT lawyer appointed to oversight regulator
A senior lawyer at telecoms giant BT – which owns an alternative business structure – has become the newest member of the Legal Services Board. David Eveleigh has been joined on the board by Marina Gibbs, the director of competition policy at Ofcom.
LawNet targets expansion with Marston hire
Leading law firm network LawNet is set to expand after appointing well-known banker Chris Marston as its new chief executive. Mr Marston, currently head of professional practices at Lloyds Banking Group, will start in the new role in July.
Exclusive: major blow to Co-op Legal Services as Blacklaws departs
Christina Blacklaws, who has spearheaded the development of Co-operative Legal Services, left the alternative business structure at the end of last month, Legal Futures can reveal.
Council legal team launches procurement exercise to find ABS partner
Kent County Council’s legal services team is expecting a bumper response from law firms and other legal services providers after starting a unique procurement exercise for a joint venture partner within an alternative business structure.
Criminal barristers vote 2:1 to accept government legal aid deal
Criminal law barristers yesterday voted two to one in favour of calling off their industrial action and accept the deal offered by the government. However, fewer than half of the Criminal Bar Association’s 4,000 members voted.
