Legal services supported by ABS fines?

Legal services might be supported by fines for alternative business structures (ABS), which authorities hope will act as an incentive for firms to remain within the boundaries of their licenses.

Many experts, such as probate solicitors and personal injury lawyers, believe the new legal services regulations will improve conditions for customers, rendering it cheaper to carry out important activities like making a will.

The Law Society Gazette reveals plans outlined by the Legal Services Board create the potential for significant financial penalties to be levied against ABS, an eventuality that should not be needed, but may ensure the highest quality work is carried out by the modern firms.

Commenting on the proposals, a representative stated: "We consider small firms should see that setting a high maximum will mean they are not disadvantaged by their larger competitors' penalties being capped at a disproportionately low level."

In other news, justice minister Jonathan Djanogly recently observed virtual courts have the potential to save money and warrant further investigation.

Published by Tessa Jones