Is world’s largest ‘find a lawyer’ service coming to the UK?
The world’s largest lawyer rating website could be heading for the UK after raising £22m in new capital, Legal Futures can reveal. Avvo, a US-based company, applies its proprietorial rating to more than 97% of lawyers in America.
Quindell bids to reassure market after share price plummet
Alternative business structure Quindell plc moved to reassure the stock exchange yesterday after a negative research note sent its share price plummeting. Having started the day at around 40p, Quindell’s shares on AIM fell as low as 17p before recovering somewhat to 23.75p.
High Court overturns “unlawful” Legal Ombudsman decision to cut firm’s fees
The High Court has struck down an “unlawful and irrational” Legal Ombudsman decision to reduce a law firm’s fee and compensate its client for distress and inconvenience.
Rise and rise of DIY probate casts doubt over impact of big brands
The number of applications for grant of probate by personal applicants has risen for the third year running, raising questions about the impact of new entrants to the market, according to new figures.
£22m loss for Co-operative Legal Services
Co-operative Legal Services made a loss of £22m in 2013 when the impact of a slower rate of growth than previously planned for is taken into account, the group announced today.
Partners sanctioned over misuse of client money
A Lancashire solicitor has been struck off after misusing more than £400,000 of client monies to prop up her ailing firm. Kimberley Bridge was struck off by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal this week for nine counts of dishonesty.
Consumer panel backs greater recognition of McKenzie Friends
A new trade association, the Society of McKenzie Friends, is to be launched to represent the non-lawyer advisers who charge fees, as the first step towards self-regulation. The news comes as the Legal Services Consumer Panel concludes that the public interest benefits of MFs outweigh the risks.
QASA registration timetable thrown up in air by continuing JR
The timetable for advocates to register for the Quality Assurance Scheme for Advocates has been thrown into chaos as a result of the continuing judicial review of its legality. Meanwhile, the Bar Standards Board has begun the search for a new chair.
ABSs top 300 mark with latest licencees demonstrating variety of new legal breed
The number of alternative business structures (ABSs) has passed 300, with a major international business support services company with offices around the world among the latest to achieve the status.
LSB reviews hurdles faced by non-lawyers who want to own ABSs
Plans to simplify the approval process for non-lawyer owners of alternative business structures are being considered by the Legal Services Board, it has emerged. Private equity purchasers are proving particularly tricky under the current regime.
