Consumers should be aware of possible lawyer fee deductions when involved in Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs).The Legal Ombudsman stresses that no consumer should be surprised by deductions made from their damages for legal fees.New guidance from the Legal Ombudsman outlines the necessity for lawyers to explain their fee structures transparently.Consumers’ awareness of potential complaints starts when advised by a law firm, not just when viewing their bill.The Belsner case highlighted lawful deductions in CFAs, reinforcing the importance of transparency for clients.Consumers engaged in Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs) must understand potential deductions from their damages to cover legal fees. The Legal…
Author: Dave Antrobus
Aston Martin’s shares took a significant hit following a profit warning linked to supply chain issues and production cuts.The luxury carmaker’s stock fell 20% to a two-year low as production disruptions affected four upgraded models.Aston Martin adjusted its 2024 production target from 7,000 to 6,000 cars due to ongoing supply chain challenges.The company cites insolvencies at key German suppliers and macroeconomic difficulties in China as contributing factors.Despite setbacks, Aston Martin’s leadership remains confident in meeting 2025 financial targets.Aston Martin, a stalwart of luxury automotive manufacturing, recently experienced a dramatic drop in its share prices, plummeting 20% to a two-year low…
The collapse of McDermott Smith leaves creditors uncertain about repayments.Administrators uncertain about timeline for payouts to creditors.Founders of the firm grew its turnover threefold in a single year.The firm owes £37.5 million to creditors, with £900,000 owed to Fenchurch Legal.Many client files transferred to another firm, now also shut down by SRA.McDermott Smith’s collapse has led to a significant degree of uncertainty regarding creditor repayments. Administrators from Quantuma, who were appointed by the secured creditor Fenchurch Legal, have admitted that a timeline for creditor payouts remains unknown. The entire process of liquidation might extend up to two more years, with…
The role of lawyers in safeguarding election integrity was highlighted at the Opening of the Legal Year event.Law Society and Bar Council co-hosted the event, with global legal representatives attending.Discussions focused on lawyers’ roles during elections and maintaining political neutrality.Law Society President emphasised the profession’s dedication to the rule of law and access to justice.Additional topics included recognising the legal sector’s economic contributions.The Opening of the Legal Year event underscored the importance of the legal profession in maintaining the integrity of electoral processes worldwide. Lawyers are seen as essential in upholding the rules that ensure free and fair elections, a…
Nick Hanning has made history as the first CILEX lawyer appointed as a recorder.He will preside in the county, family, and Crown courts on the South Eastern circuit.This follows a recent law change allowing CILEX lawyers to apply for such roles.Hanning’s career includes experience as a deputy district judge since 2020.His appointment signifies an important step towards equality for CILEX members.Nick Hanning’s appointment as a recorder marks a pivotal moment in the legal profession, as he becomes the first CILEX lawyer to assume such a role. He will preside over cases in the county, family, and Crown courts within the…
M&S is considering a significant expansion to support its online sales growth.The retailer is exploring a large new warehouse site in the Midlands.This move aims to bolster its online fashion and homeware sales target of 50%.Recent improvements in M&S’s online experience have boosted customer engagement.Automation and supply chain refinement are key strategies for M&S’s growth.M&S, a major retail entity, is evaluating options for a substantial new warehouse in the Midlands region, indicative of its strategic push to enhance its online sales capabilities. The potential site, spanning over one million square feet in Northamptonshire, represents a significant investment decision still under…
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has secured approval for a significant increase in the compensation fund fee to address the financial impact caused by Axiom Ince. This dramatic 270% rise in contributions aims to replenish the fund after considerable payouts. The approval has raised concerns, amidst ongoing investigations into the SRA’s handling of past interventions. Firms, regardless of size, will face a uniform fee increase.The Solicitors Regulation Authority gains approval to significantly raise compensation fund fees.A 270% fee hike is implemented to cover the financial aftermath of Axiom Ince.The decision arrives during an ongoing investigation into SRA’s organisational conduct.The fee…
A significant High Court decision has been made regarding solicitor Naim Lone’s attempt to vary a Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) costs order.Naim Lone, fined for non-compliance, sought to pay the £29,359 costs in instalments, but his applications were dismissed.The High Court affirmed it lacks jurisdiction to alter SDT orders, which must be legally appealed, not varied.Complication arose with the existence of a claim number without proper initiation of a judicial review or other claim.Lone, representing himself, faced dismissal of both application attempts by the High Court.In a notable High Court ruling, solicitor Naim Lone’s appeal to modify a costs order…
A Manchester solicitor’s claim of unfair dismissal against Citizens Advice was dismissed by the tribunal.The issue arose from an ‘ill-judged’ comment made by the solicitor regarding a workplace award.A ‘Good Citizen’ award initiated was criticised as ‘dubious’ by the solicitor.The CEO’s response was deemed humiliating by the solicitor, leading to further contention.The tribunal found no breach of mutual trust and confidence, dismissing the claim.A Manchester-based solicitor’s claim of unfair dismissal against Citizens Advice has been dismissed by the employment tribunal. The dispute emerged after Sarah Guest, who worked at Citizens Advice Manchester from 2010 and specialised in housing law from…
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has cleared Candey Limited of misconduct allegations regarding anti-money laundering checks on a £20 million transaction.Candey Limited faced accusations from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for allegedly failing to conduct required diligence for a high-value transaction.The Tribunal ruled that enhanced due diligence was not mandatory, and thus, no breach occurred.The case highlights ongoing challenges faced by the SRA in proving misconduct related to anti-money laundering regulations.Candey Limited criticizes the SRA’s handling of the case, deeming it a time and cost-consuming process.The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has recently ruled in favour of Candey Limited, a City law firm,…