Legal services evolving as law firms seek independent directors?

Legal services are changing as a result of the so-called Tesco Law, which made alternative business structures (ABS) possible and opened up the possibility of lawyers forming associations with professional such as accountants.

And this shift is now being reflected in the upper echelons of legal services providers, as the Guardian reports at least two law firms are seeking to hire board members with non-legal backgrounds.

In the past, legal solicitors have often worked only with similar individuals dealing in cases such as personal injury or making a will, but the introduction of ABS means differently-qualified individuals should now be able to support their activities.

Anna Ponton and Stuart Morton, head of the business and professional services practice at executive headhunters Odgers Berndtson, claim more than half of Britain's top 20 law firms will hire non-lawyer executives in the next two years.

Last week, Incomes Data Services revealed large companies are increasing pay for top bosses after the recession's austerity, news that may encourage professionals to join large law firms.

Published by Phil Hammond