Surrey Lawyer JULY 2025 by Benham Publishing Limited

THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SURREY LAW SOCIETY | SUMMER 2025

Local News ■ Council Member's Report ■ Training & Events Programme 2025

Shaun Wallace Guest Speaker

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MEDIA No.

2083

July 2025 © The Surrey Law Society Benham Publishing Ltd.

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The Surrey Law Society welcomes all persons eligible for membership regardless of sex, race, religion, age or sexual orientation.

All views expressed in this publication are the views of the individual writers and not the society unless specifically stated to be otherwise. All statements as to the law are for discussion between members and should not be relied upon as an accurate statement of the law, are of a general nature and do not constitute advice in any particular case or circumstance.

Members of the public should not seek to rely on anything published in this magazine in court but seek qualified Legal Advice.

COVER INFORMATION

Shaun Wallace, guest speaker SLS Legal Awards 2025.

26th SEPTEMBER 2025 (For OCTOBER 2025)

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Editorial

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KEY OFFICERS

President

JAMES SCOZZI

Elite Law Solicitors, 1 Fetter Lane, London EC4A 1BR

DX: 14 London Chancery Lane

Tel: 020 3440 5506 Fax: 01923 219416

Email: jscozzi@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk

Vice President

KIM WINTLE

Blackfords LLP, Cleary Court, 169 Church Street East, Woking GU21 6HJ Tel: 03330 150150

Email: kim.wintle@blackfords.com

Honorary Secretary

KIERAN BOWE

Russell-Cooke Solicitors, Bishops Palace House, Kingston Bridge, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 1QN DX 31546 Kingston upon Thames Tel: 020 8541 2041 Fax: 020 8541 2009

Email: kieran.bowe@russell-cooke.co.uk

Hon. Treasurer

CLAUDENE HOWELL

Bellwether Solicitors, 454-456 London Road, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8JB T: 020 3621 0111 E: claudene@bellwethersolicitors.com

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Immediate Past President

DAWN LAWSON

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP, Portman House, Colby Rd, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RN Tel: 01932 219500. Email: d.lawson@nmd-law.com

NICK BALL

TWM Solicitors LLP, 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD Tel: 01483 752700

Email: Nick.Ball@twmsolicitors.com

MADELEINE BERESFORD

TWM Solicitors LLP, 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD Tel: 01483 752742

Email: madeleine.beresford@twmsolicitors.com

CARINA BRITS

Elite Law Solicitors, St James House, 9-15 St James Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 4QH

Tel: 020 3376 5861

Email: cbrits@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk

MARALYN HUTCHINSON

Kagan Moss & Co, 22 The Causeway, Teddington TW11 0HF

Tel: 020 8977 6633 Fax: 020 8977 0183

Email: maralyn.hutchinson@kaganmoss.co.uk

EMA BRYN JONES

Peacock & Co Solicitors, Park Place House, 24 Church Street, Epsom, KT17 4QB

Tel: 02080350370

Email: ema.jones@peacock-law.co.uk

DEV JUMMOODOO

Rosewood Solicitors, Export House, 5 Henry Plaza, Victoria Way, Woking Surrey GU21 6QX

Tel: 01483 901414

Email: dev.jummoodoo@rosewood-solicitors.com

HAYLEY LALSING

Charles Russell Speechlys, One London Square, Cross Lanes, Guildford GU1 1UN

Tel: 01483 252536

Email: hayley.lalsing@crsblaw.com

ALASTAIR LOGAN OBE

Pound House, Skiff Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 DAG

Email: alastairdwlogan@btinternet.com

EMMA PATEL

Rosewood Solicitors, Export House, 5 Henry Plaza, Victoria Way, Woking, Surrey GU21 6QX

Tel: 01483 901414

Email: emma.patel@rosewood-solicitors.com

RACHEL PHILIP

S. Abraham Solicitors, 290A Ewell Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7AQ

Tel: 020 8390 0044

Email: conveyancing@sabrahamsolicitors.co.uk

JAMES SCOZZI

Elite Law Solicitors, 1 Fetter Lane, London EC4A 1BR

DX: 14 London Chancery Lane

Tel: 020 3440 5506 Fax: 01923 219416

Email: jscozzi@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk

SUZANNE WALKER

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP, Portman House, Colby Rd, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RN

Tel: 01932 219500;

Email: s.walker@nmd-law.com

LAW SOCIETY COUNCIL MEMBER

SUSHILA ABRAHAM

S Abraham Solicitors 290A Ewell Road, Surbiton KT6 7AQ

Tel: 020 8390 0044

Email: office@sabrahamsolicitors.co.uk

Chief Executive & Magazine Editor

HELEN OPIE

Surrey Law Society, c/o Russell-Cooke LLP, Riverview House, 20 Old Bridge Street, Kingston KT1 4BU

Web: www.surreylawsociety.org.uk

Tel: 0333 577 3830

Email: helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk

SUB-COMMITTEES

CONVEYANCING & LAND LAW

Rachel Philip

Carina Brits

Maralyn Hutchinson

Ema Jones

Martin Whitehorn

EMPLOYMENT LAW

Nick Hawkins

Ashley Burrow

Jodie Care

Tariq Phillips

Hollie Ryan

FINANCE

Claudene Howell

Nick Ball

Maddie Beresford

Kieran Bowe

Helen Opie

PRIVATE CLIENT

Kieran Bowe

Maddie Beresford

Jess Buttaci

QUO VADIS

Claudene Howell

Nick Ball

Maddie Beresford

Kieran Bowe

James Scozzi

Helen Opie

EVENTS & FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

Madeleine Beresford

Nathan Chalmers

Claudene Howell

Daphne Robertson

Helen Opie

Kim Wintle

SURREY JUNIOR LAWYERS DIVISION

Alex Watson-Lee (Chair)

Bisma Hussain (Vice Chair)

Bethany Walker

Seema Gill

Daisy Welland

Bethany Catchpole

Astor Chan & Kali Phelan

Bethany Catchpole

Daisy Daynes

Akarsshaa Bhargava

Ellie Sullivan

Katie Foulds

Joanna Earl

Email: surreyjuniorlawyersdivision@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ young-surrey-lawyers

Instagram: jld_surrey

Twitter: @YSL_Live / @SurreyJLD

As we move through the summer, it’s been a busy and rewarding period for the Society, with a number of events providing opportunities to connect with members, peers from across the country, and stakeholders from the wider legal and political landscape. I’m pleased to share a few recent highlights and to look ahead at what’s coming up.

In May, I had the pleasure of attending the County Societies Group Reception at the Palace of Westminster. This collaborative event, hosted jointly by the local law societies of Cheshire & North Wales, Devon & Somerset, Kent, Leicestershire, Newcastle and Surrey, brought together solicitors, parliamentarians, and industry experts in an inspiring setting. It was fantastic to see so many of our members in attendance, taking the opportunity to engage directly with some of our Surrey MPs. I’d like to thank Mark Evans and Frank Maher for their thought-provoking speeches on two critical topics—access to justice and the future regulation of our profession. Their contributions sparked insightful conversations and reminded us of the value of local societies working together to influence national dialogue.

I also had the opportunity to travel to Exeter to attend the Devon & Somerset Law Society’s Legal Awards at the Great Hall, Exeter University. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening that showcased the talent, dedication and community spirit of legal professionals in the region. A big thank you to DASLS for their warm hospitality.

Another recent highlight was a roundtable event co-hosted by Surrey Law Society and Actionstep, which focused on priorities and pressures facing midsize law firms. It was excellent to see so many of our members in attendance and to witness such open, practical discussion around the tables. I’d like to thank Actionstep for not only facilitating the session but also for sharing the latest findings from their survey of midsize firms—offering valuable insights on everything from operational challenges to growth strategies.

Closer to home, we’ve been making good progress on our plans for the President’s Dinner, due to take place this autumn. Organised in partnership with Evelyn Partners, this new event will offer members the chance to enjoy a private dining experience

President’s Jottings

SUMMER 2025

in an exclusive Surrey setting while networking with fellow professionals and invited guests. More details will follow shortly, and I very much hope to see many of you there.

But before that, we’re gearing up for one of the more competitive entries in the SLS calendar—the 7th Annual Past Presidents’ Championship Cup at Daytona, taking place next week. This event always promises a great atmosphere, a bit of rivalry on the track, and a welcome opportunity to connect with members and patrons in a more relaxed environment.

Our next Committee Meeting will take place in early July, where we’ll continue to review upcoming plans and explore new ways to support and engage members. I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage any members who know of firms in Surrey who aren’t yet part of the Society to point them in our direction. Likewise, if you work with suppliers or service providers who might benefit from sponsoring the Society, do let us know— we’re always keen to grow our network of supporters.

Finally, I hope you all find some time to relax and recharge over the summer months. Whether you're taking a break, attending one of our events, or simply enjoying a quieter period in the office, I wish you all the best for the season ahead.

Warm regards,

Scozzi President Surrey Law Society

James

James Scozzi

ACEO Report SUMMER 2025

s we move through the summer, I’m pleased to update you on a busy and productive few months at Surrey Law Society. From collaborative events and member consultations to a strong programme of training and preparations for this year’s Legal Awards, there has been much going on behind the scenes. This update highlights just a few of the key developments and what’s coming up next.

Championing Conversations and Insights

One of the recent highlights was our exclusive Actionstep Round Table, held in May at Stevens & Bolton. We were thrilled to welcome around 30 Managing and Senior Partners from across Surrey for an engaging lunchtime briefing, exploring findings from Actionstep’s 2025 UK Midsize Law Firm Priorities Report. This was not only an opportunity to hear key sector insights, but also to foster thoughtful, open discussion among peers about challenges and opportunities on the horizon. Thank you to all those who joined us for making it such a dynamic and valuable session.

We also had the great pleasure of participating in the County Societies Group (CSG) Reception at the Palace of Westminster. Over 20 Surrey members joined representatives from our partner societies around the UK, with local MPs invited to attend and engage with professionals from their constituencies. It was a proud moment for the Society to be part of this cross-regional collaboration, which enables us to amplify member voices and address shared concerns at a national level. Sincere thanks go to Steve Darling MP for hosting, Tony Steiner for coordinating, and to Mark Evans and Frank Maher for their thought-provoking speeches on access to justice and regulation in the profession.

Training with Impact

Our training programme has continued to flourish, offering members access to topical and practical CPD through a balance of online and inperson events. Since the beginning of May, we’ve delivered sessions on an impressive range of subjects, from climate risk to conveyancing updates.

Highlights have included:

• The New Non-Dom Regime: A Clear Guide for Practitioners with Julie Man (Russell-Cooke)

• Family Investment Companies Explained with Catriona Attride (Mills & Reeve) and Edward Emblem (Evelyn Partners)

• Mastering Compliance in Family Law with Karen Barham (Moore Barlow) and Victoria Clarke (Elite Law)

• Advising on Climate Change Risk Assessments with Simon Boyle

• Residential Conveyancing Update 2025 with Stephen Desmond, kindly hosted at TWM Solicitors in Guildford

Our thanks go to all of our speakers, venues and attendees for contributing to such a strong and well-received programme.

SLS Legal Awards – Finalists Revealed

We were overwhelmed by the volume and calibre of nominations received for this year’s SLS Legal Awards—a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication across our legal community. We’re delighted to confirm that all 14 categories will be going ahead, and our judges faced some tough decisions in shortlisting finalists.

You can find the full list of finalists in this issue, alongside details of our special guest speaker for the evening— Shaun Wallace, barrister, lecturer, and star of The Chase. Shaun will bring a unique perspective to the evening as both a legal professional and one of the sharpest minds on British television.

We look forward to welcoming you to G Live on 16 October for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of excellence in Surrey’s legal sector.

Member Representation in Focus

Alongside delivering events, the Society continues to represent the interests of our members on issues of sector-wide importance.

We are currently seeking your views on two key issues:

1. Anti-Money Laundering Reform

The Property Lawyers Alliance (PLA) is calling for urgent reform to AML processes which, they argue, are placing disproportionate pressure on conveyancers and contributing to transaction delays. Past SLS President Dawn Lawson, who sits on the PLA steering group, is helping to shape the campaign, and we encourage members to read the overview and share feedback.

2. SRA First-Tier Complaints Consultation

The SRA has proposed changes to first-tier complaint handling, including clearer website disclosures, a standardised definition of a complaint, and the potential publication of complaints data. We’re preparing a response and would greatly value your input.

To share your views on either of the above, please contact the SLS Office, who will send over the surveys for completion.

Looking Ahead

Our planning for the second half of the year is already well underway. In training, we’ll be adding new courses including a Post Completion Workshop for Conveyancing Support Staff, and a follow-up Round Table on the SQE and Apprenticeships in collaboration with The College of Legal Practice.

We’re also excited to be developing a special new event—the President’s Dinner—in partnership with Evelyn Partners, offering an exclusive evening of networking and insight for senior legal professionals. More details will be announced soon.

In the meantime, thank you once again for your continued support—it really does make all the difference. I hope you manage to take a well-earned break over the summer, whether that’s time in the sun, time with family, or just time away from your inbox!

Warmest regards,

Helen Opie Chief Executive & Magazine Editor

Helen Opie

High-Profile Hires to Support Stevens & Bolton Growth Strategy

Independent law firm Stevens & Bolton recently announced the appointment of Aaron Pendlebury as its new Head of HR and Darren Cleveland as the new Head of Business Development and Marketing.

Aaron was formerly Global Director of Workforce Planning at international law firm Reed Smith, having previously held positions at EY, Norton Rose Fulbright, and Flex Legal – a flexible legal resourcing scale-up that was acquired by Mishcon de Reya – and brings a wealth of expertise in HR, people development and training to the role.

Darren joins the firm from Shoosmiths where he worked for nearly 11 years as Head of Divisional Business Development, having previously held roles at Jones Day and DAC Beachcroft.

These latest appointments follow a series of high-profile moves, including the appointment of Wayne Heyes as Head of Technology from Penningtons Manches Cooper, Ryan Murphy as Head of Facilities from JLL, and the appointment of Laura Walliss as the firm’s first Responsible Business Manager.

The roles play a critical part in helping the firm to continue to meet its aim of efficiently providing the best possible platform to deliver excellent legal services to clients, and one that enables all its people to develop and thrive.

James Waddell, Managing Partner, commented: “We have an ambitious growth strategy to double revenue over the next four years, and investing in the best talent to lead our people and BD streams is of critical importance to achieving this. We are delighted to welcome Aaron and Darren to the firm who both bring extensive industry expertise and experience into their roles.”

Commenting on his appointment, Aaron said: “Here at Stevens & Bolton we have a combination of ambitious growth and a genuinely people-first culture, not just in words, but in practice. As Head of People and Talent, my focus will be on evolving a strategy that empowers our people to be part of that ambition, one that supports the firm’s independent ethos, and strengthens our culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and commercial excellence.”

Darren added: “Stevens & Bolton enjoys a reputation of quality – in its work, its people and its clients. Joining in the second year of a five-year growth strategy, I see a huge opportunity for the firm to build on this reputation to further evolve our market offering, leverage the talent we have in the business and deliver even greater service to our clients.” ■

L-R: Aaron Pendlebury and Darren Cleveland

Blackfords LLP Promotes Lucinda Shand to Partner and Head of Criminal Defence Team

Leading dispute resolution law firm Blackfords LLP (Blackfords) has recently announced the promotion of Lucinda Shand to Partner and Head of Criminal Defence in its Croydon office.

Blackfords, the independent law firm with offices in London, Cardiff, Woking, and Croydon, offers clients unparalleled levels of expertise in dealing with the highestprofile cases and dispute resolutions across an array of practices including high-profile criminal defence, private prosecutions, family law, regulatory, and white-collar crime.

Lucinda Shand began her legal career as a trainee at the firm in 2008 and has since been involved in some of the country’s most high-profile cases including representing an individual involved in the alleged bribery and corruption of Government Officials in the Turks and Caicos Islands; securing recognition of “battered women’s syndrome” in cases of drugs importation in the Appeal of Goldie Coats; and representing a defendant alleged to be the ‘controlling mind’ in the running of a fraudulent company selling investments in rare earth metals totalling £7 million.

A member of Women in Criminal Law and the Association of Regulatory & Disciplinary Lawyers, Lucinda represents individuals in the UK and internationally on

a plethora of criminal offences including serious fraud and money laundering offences; serious violent offences including murder; sexual offences including complex historic allegations; weapon offences; drug offences; immigration offences; trademark and counterfeit goods offences; and Traffic Act offences. More recently, Lucinda has also widened her practice to encompass aspects of Regulatory Law, representing professionals before a range of regulatory bodies, challenging decisions made by the Disclosure and Barring Service and Ofsted and representing those involved in Inquests.

This is the latest in a round of promotions over 2025 and follows the February partnership promotions of London based female partners Naureen Shariff, Rachel Wilson and Jennifer Wilson, Woking partners Helen Worden and Hannah Giles, and Croydon-based partner Lisa Towell. The 2025 female cohort brings the total number of partners at the firm to 12, elevating the female to male ratio to 67/33% respectively.

Commenting on the latest promotion, Trevor Francis, Managing Partner at Blackfords LLP commented:

“We are pleased to welcome Lucinda to the partnership here at Blackfords and to have her serve as Head of Criminal Defence in

the Croydon office. Having joined us as a trainee in 2008, we are particularly proud to have helped and nurtured her throughout her legal career to reach the partnership. We take career progression and mentoring very seriously at the firm and this is testament to that.

We all, across the firm and partnership, congratulate Lucinda on this achievement and look forward to further benefitting from her legal prowess, determination, significant experience, and leadership. We are confident that she will take these roles in her stride."

Partner and Head of the Criminal Defence Team in Croydon, Lucinda Shand added: “I have been overwhelmed by the career support that I have received from the partnership at Blackfords over the years. I aim to provide the same guidance and mentorship to my other colleagues in Croydon and across offices to ensure that they all have the same opportunities that I have been presented with. Having begun my legal career at Blackfords as a trainee and to climb the ranks to partnership, I hope serves as an attainable inspiration to our trainees today and junior lawyers that they too can make it.” ■

Downs Solicitors LLP announces new leadership

Leading Surrey law firm, Downs Solicitors LLP has announced a key change to the leadership of the Firm effective as of 1st April 2025.

Julian Harvey and Amber O’Connor will take on the roles of Managing Partners.

As part of the transition, Julian and Amber will be taking over the baton from Chris Millar who will be stepping down from his role as Senior Partner after 10 years of dedicated service to the Firm. Chris has played an instrumental role in Downs’ growth and success and has continued to uphold the Firm’s reputation for providing outstanding legal advice to businesses and private clients within the Surrey community.

Reflecting on the leadership transition, Chris Millar commented: “After 10 years as Senior Partner, I’m proud to be handing over the reins to Amber and Julian. Their experience and vision make them the ideal team to lead Downs into the next chapter, particularly as we expand with our new office in Reigate.”

Commenting on her new role, Amber O’Connor said: "I am honoured to step into this position alongside Julian. Downs has a long-standing reputation for excellence and I look forward to continuing to build on our success by ensuring we provide the very best legal support for our clients. With a strong leadership team in place, we are excited about the future and the opportunities ahead."

Julian Harvey added: "This is an exciting time for Downs as we continue to grow and evolve. I look forward to working closely with Amber and the rest of the leadership team to ensure we maintain our high standards of service while exploring new opportunities to strengthen our offering.”

For more information, please visit www.downslaw.co.uk ■

L-R: Julian Harvey, Amber O’Connor, Chris Millar

Taylor Rose parent AIIC Group rolls out cloud-based practice management platform

Salesforce-based system aims to enhance efficiency, productivity and service levels while supporting talent attraction and retention

AIIC Group (“AIIC”), the legal group behind law firms Taylor Rose, FDR Law and Kingsley Wood, is rolling out a new fully cloud-based practice management platform as part of its ongoing investment in technology aimed at enhancing efficiency, productivity and service levels.

Already live in FDR Law, the group’s property-focused legal services business, AIIC is rolling out the system across Taylor Rose - the largest business in the group - over the summer, and plans to onboard Kingsley Wood, its corporate-focused law firm, later this year.

Developed with a sharp focus on the needs of a modern-day lawyer, the Salesforcebased system is market-leading in terms of stability, scalability and reliability. Staff can access the system on any device, including a mobile phone, to maximise flexibility for fee earners. By housing all the data in one place, the system aids ease and productivity for lawyers as well as central support departments such as supervision, audit, complaint handling and data protection.

The platform will enable AIIC to develop near-term AI opportunities, including intelligent document processing and the development of numerous other use cases driven by AI agents.

The investment is critical to driving service levels, efficiency and productivity that AIIC believes can differentiate it in its markets. It is also expected to be of huge value in providing its lawyers with a platform and infrastructure capable of giving them the best and most productive experience, therefore aiding talent attraction and retention.

Adrian Jaggard, CEO of the AIIC Group, commented: “This is a hugely important strategic investment for the group. Giving our lawyers and support teams the best and most productive work-life experience possible is an essential part of our strategy; if they are satisfied with our platform, our IT and central services, that will ultimately deliver better results for our clients and the business.

“The platform is already delivering great results in FDR Law and we’re confident that it will bring similar benefits in Taylor Rose and Kingsley Wood, taking away administrative and process-driven headaches and allowing lawyers to do their core jobs more effectively than ever. Crucially, it gives us a platform on which we can continue to scale and innovate as we look at the opportunities brought to us by AI in particular.”

The group is tailoring the platform for all its specialisms, which in Taylor Rose include areas such as property, including

conveyancing; private client; family; civil litigation; and commercial law.

Workflows have been designed with compliance in mind, to help fee earners easily view everything they need to see on one system and undertake the tasks required of them.

The system will also introduce functionality for a wider range of business support functions, including client care, IT, finance, new business, and legal support operations.

Designed to be intuitive and easy to use, all employees and consultants are being trained on the new platform with interactive demonstrations, a suite of video training materials and virtual drop-in training sessions, as well as on-site support across the group’s locations.

AIIC recorded revenues of £97.3m (+16%) in the financial year ending 30th September 2024.

In March this year AIIC was listed in the prestigious FT 1000 list of Europe’s fastestgrowing companies by the Financial Times for the third consecutive year, one of only 22 UK companies to have appeared in the rankings in all of the past three years. ■

Adrian Jaggard , CEO of the AIIC Group

More than 19,000 solicitors walk for justice as The Solicitors’ Charity plays its part in the success of the London Legal Walk 2025

The UK’s largest gathering of legal professionals took place on Tuesday 17 June, when more than 19,000 solicitors and legal sector workers united for the 21st annual London Legal Walk, to raise vital funds to support access to justice across London and the South East.

Organised by the London Legal Support Trust and proudly sponsored by The Solicitors’ Charity, the 10K walk brought together the legal community to raise money for frontline legal advice charities supporting those who need it most.

The Solicitors’ Charity made a memorable impact at the event with a strong team presence, and the popular return of its Wheel of Fortune, drawing queues of enthusiastic walkers eager to spin and win prizes.

Nick Gallagher, CEO of The Solicitors’ Charity, said: “It was inspiring to see so many legal professionals come together for such an important cause. The atmosphere was full of camaraderie, commitment and purpose – and we’re delighted to have played our part in supporting this record-breaking event.”

“We are proud to stand alongside the legal community and remain committed to promoting wellbeing at the biggest gathering of solicitors in one place in the year, as those assembled volunteer to support access to justice.”

Throughout the day, The Solicitors’ Charity team engaged with hundreds of participants, sharing information about its services –including emotional, professional, physical and financial wellbeing support, tailored to meet the specific needs of solicitors and their dependants.

The event saw another huge turnout for the London Legal Walk. This further cements its status as a vital fixture in the legal calendar, a powerful demonstration of collective action for justice and a visible reminder of wellbeing through communal walking.

For more information about The Solicitors’ Charity and how it supports legal professionals, visit www.thesolicitorscharity.org.

The Solicitors' Charity team at the London Legal Walk with their Wheel of Fortune, sharing information about wellbeing support available to solicitors.

8 Reasons Solicitors Prefer Clio for Their Practices

In the fast-paced and competitive legal industry, solicitors need innovative tools to streamline workflows, enhance efficiency, and drive growth. Clio, the leading legal software, has become the go-to solution for solicitors across the UK. By leveraging Clio's powerful features and integrations, solicitors can transform their practice, achieve greater efficiency, and unlock new growth opportunities. Let's explore why solicitors choose Clio as their trusted legal software solution.

1. Streamlined Workflows: Clio's features centralise case information, reducing manual tasks and saving time.

“Since moving to Clio, we've saved time, our client service has improved, and our profits have increased. We only wish we'd made the move sooner” - Ali Bukhari, Founder, Bukhari Chambers.

2. Enhanced Collaboration: Solicitors can collaborate seamlessly with colleagues and clients, fostering teamwork and improving service.

3. Remote Work Capabilities: Clio's cloud-based platform enables solicitors to work from anywhere, ensuring productivity and client service.

“With Clio, I could successfully support remote working and build a practice with lower overheads. Over the past three years, Clio has become the essential tool for our firm's growth.” - Arun Chauhan, Founder, Tenet Law.

4. Time and Expense Tracking: Simplified tracking and accurate invoicing improve cash flow and client trust.

“Clio has helped tighten our time recording and increased our chargeable hours. It is a fantastic tool for reconciling and tracking transactions in my client account. I can not imagine going back to the way I used to manage my client accounting.” Adele Hunt, Practice Manager, East Devon Law.

5. Financial Management: Insights into firm finances drive growth with our Law Firm Performance Dashboard and with integrations with popular accounting software.

6. Client Relationship Management: Features like client intake, onboarding, and appointment scheduling enhance client satisfaction and loyalty through Clio Grow.

“Clio Grow has helped save my practice. I’ve been a Clio Grow customer for over a year, and the volume of leads my firm receives would be impossible to track without Clio Grow. The system is intuitive and easy to use.” - Lara Evans, Practice Manager, Ubique Legal.

7. Comprehensive Support and Training: Clio provides exceptional support and resources for a smooth transition and ongoing learning.

8. Industry Recognition and Trust: Trusted by thousands of solicitors and compliant with GDPR and SRA compliances.

“The Law Society is delighted that Clio is one of its recommended partners and offers a completely cloud-based case management software. We identified Clio as a supplier that suits our members’ needs, especially as business efficiency is central to performance.”—Fiona O’Mahony, Law Society of England & Wales.

Solicitors choose Clio for its ability to transform legal workflows, enhance efficiency, and drive growth. Join the thousands of solicitors who have chosen Clio as their trusted legal software solution and experience the transformative power it brings to your practice. Start your Clio journey today. Plans from just £49 per user/per month.

To read more Clio customer success stories, visit our site, Clio.com/uk/customers. ■

Using a Deed of Variation to Facilitate Charitable Giving

As the Surrey Law Society’s nominated charity for 2025, the Community Foundation for Surrey plays a vital role in connecting local philanthropy with local need. In this special contribution, Dr Rebecca Bowden highlights how legal professionals can support clients in making a lasting impact through charitable giving using the Deed of Variation.

As legal professionals, you are often in a key position to support clients who wish to incorporate charitable giving into their estate planning—sometimes even after death. One underutilised but highly effective mechanism for doing so is the Deed of Variation

Case Study: Stonar Brighter Futures Fund

Mike’s parents were long-time residents of Surrey with a strong commitment to volunteering and charitable giving. Although Mike now lives overseas, he retains a deep connection to his roots and an awareness that many children in Surrey today do not enjoy the same opportunities that he and his siblings had growing up.

With your guidance, a client like Mike can use a Deed of Variation to redirect part of their inheritance to create a charitable fund—turning a legacy into lasting community impact. In Mike’s case, he established the Stonar Brighter Futures Fund through the Community Foundation for Surrey, targeting support to disadvantaged young people under 25 in the county.

Legal Context: What is a Deed of Variation?

A Deed of Variation allows beneficiaries of an estate to alter the distribution of assets outlined in a will, provided it is executed within two years of the deceased’s death. This legal instrument enables the introduction of charitable gifts, often with the added benefit of Inheritance Tax (IHT) relief

For example, if a beneficiary redirects 10% of the net estate to charity via a Deed of Variation, the estate may qualify for the reduced IHT rate of 36% (down from 40%). This can result in a charitable contribution worth up to four times the value of the sum foregone by the beneficiaries.

Professional Considerations

As an adviser, you play a pivotal role in helping clients explore their options:

• Client Objectives: What legacy do they wish to create? Do they want to stay involved in future grant making decisions?

• Tax Planning: How can charitable giving align with broader estate and tax planning strategies?

• Simplicity and Flexibility: A Deed of Variation provides a relatively straightforward way to support charitable aims without revisiting the will.

The Community Foundation for Surrey works with legal professionals to support clients throughout this process, ensuring that the gift reflects the values and intentions of both the deceased and the beneficiaries.

The Role of the Community Foundation

For clients wishing to remain involved, the Community Foundation can provide regular shortlists of vetted local projects that align with the fund’s purpose. In Mike’s case, he receives regular updates and chooses which projects to support, maintaining a meaningful connection to his family legacy.

Alternatively, clients may opt to delegate all grant making to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. In this model, the fund operates as a fully managed vehicle, with annual impact reports provided—ideal for clients seeking a less hands-on approach, but who still want to see the ongoing impact of their donation.

Practical Impact: The Stonar Brighter Futures Fund

Since its inception, the Stonar Brighter Futures Fund has distributed over £50,000 in grants to local charities. Projects funded include construction skills training, residential and holiday camps, football programmes, and youth clubs—all benefiting young people across Surrey.

This approach demonstrates how a well-structured Deed of Variation can serve not only as a tax-efficient estate tool but as a way to create a living legacy that reflects a family's values and benefits the wider community. ■

by Dr Rebecca Bowden Community Foundation for Surrey

Booking Now Open

We are delighted to share with you the shortlisted nominations for the SLS Legal Awards 2025. The Surrey Law Society Committee would like to extend their sincere thanks to all members who made submissions this year, we were overwhelmed by the response and had a record number of entries.

1. LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (20+ FEE EARNERS)

Downs Solicitors

Elite Law Solicitors

Howell-Jones LLP

Peacock & Co Solicitors

Russell-Cooke LLP

Taylor Rose

3. LAWYER OF THE YEAR

Josie Appleyard, DMH Stallard LLP

Hannah Bourke, Meadows & Co

Anandakrishnan Nair, Taylor Rose

Emma Patel, Rosewood Solicitors

Natalie Payne, Morr & Co LLP

Christopher Zahner, Morr & Co LLP

5. CLIENT EXPERIENCE AWARD

Downs Solicitors

Helen Smith Immigration

Rosewood Solicitors

Russell-Cooke LLP

7. EMPLOYMENT LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

Knights Professional Services

Morr & Co LLP

9. JUNIOR LAWYER OF THE YEAR

Camilla Brown, Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP

Nathan Chalmers, Howell-Jones LLP

Bethany Fowler, Meadows & Co

Katy Shanel, Taylor Rose

2. LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (UNDER 20 FEE EARNERS)

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP

Rosewood Solicitors

4. BUSINESS SERVICES TEAM OF THE YEAR

Elite Law Solicitors

Peacock & Co Solicitors

6. EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

DMH Stallard

GBH Law

Howell-Jones LLP

Morr & Co LLP

Rosewood Solicitors

8. FAMILY LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

Dutton Gregory Solicitors

Howell-Jones LLP

KGW Family Law

Pearson Hards LLP

Surrey Hills Solicitors

10. LEADER OF THE YEAR

Sushila Abraham, S. Abraham Solicitors

Ashley Burrow, Meadows & Co

Helen Goatley, Moore Barlow

Dev Jummoodoo, Rosewood Solicitors

Helen Smith, Helen Smith Immigration

11. PRIVATE CLIENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

Howell-Jones LLP

Moore Barlow (Private Wealth Disputes)

Morr & Co LLP

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP

Russell-Cooke LLP

13. SUPPORT TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Jan Dougan, Rosewood Solicitors

Kirsty Hubbard, Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP

Daisy Shephard, Elite Law Solicitors

Pru Singer, Russell-Cooke LLP

12. PROPERTY LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

Burley Geach Solicitors LLP

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP

Peacock & Co Solicitors

S. Abraham Solicitors

Taylor Rose (Wimbledon)

BOOKING IS OPEN!

We are excited to announce that booking is now open for the Surrey Law Society Legal Awards 2025, taking place at G Live in Guildford on the evening of Thursday 16th October 2025

Now in its latest edition, this flagship event celebrates outstanding achievement across the legal profession in Surrey, with 14 award categories recognising excellence, innovation and dedication. All shortlisted nominees will be acknowledged for their exceptional contributions over the past year. We will also be honouring one individual with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising a solicitor who has made a lasting and exceptional impact on the profession in Surrey.

The evening promises to be a truly memorable occasion, with a sparkling drinks reception, a superb threecourse dinner, and entertainment throughout the night. We are especially excited to welcome our guest speaker Shaun Wallace —barrister, lecturer, and muchloved star of The Chase

We’re pleased to offer an early bird discount on bookings made before Friday 8th August, along with a ‘Second Table’ discount to encourage firms to bring more of their team to share in the celebration.

For ticket details and booking information, please visit awards.surreylawsociety.org.uk

Or contact Elouise Enright at elouise.enright@surreylawsociety.org.uk

Tables are expected to sell quickly, so we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

SHAUN WALLACE

Shaun Wallace is a barrister, lecturer, and well-known television personality, best recognised as one of the iconic ‘Chasers’ on ITV’s The Chase. Known by fans as ‘The Dark Destroyer’ and ‘The Legal Eagle’, Shaun has featured on the show since its launch in 2009, impressing audiences with his broad knowledge and calm authority.

Admitted to the Bar in 1984, Shaun has enjoyed a long and distinguished legal career. He continues to practise as a member of Great James Street Chambers and regularly lectures in law, specialising in areas such as environmental law and health and safety. His dual role as a legal professional and educator has made him a compelling advocate for legal education and access to the profession.

In 2004, Shaun became the first Black winner of the BBC’s Mastermind, and has since competed on a number of other high-profile quiz shows including The Weakest Link, Celebrity Catchphrase, Countdown, and Are You an Egghead?. In 2012, he placed in the top 300 at the World Quizzing Championships, underlining his standing as one of the country’s brightest quiz minds.

Shaun is also a powerful and passionate voice for racial equality and social inclusion. He regularly speaks at events and in the media during Black History Month, sharing his lived experience to highlight the ongoing need for progress. His interviews on programmes such as Good Morning Britain and Channel 5’s Racism: My Story have resonated with millions, offering a candid perspective on racism in Britain today. He advocates for the inclusion of Black History to the curriculum on the basis of supporting greater respect of all people in the country.

From the courtroom to the classroom to the television screen, Shaun Wallace has carved out a unique and impactful career – one that continues to inform, challenge and inspire. ■

Reflections and Predictions for Sustainability in the Property Sector in 2025.

THE PROPERTY AND LAND EXPERTS' VIEW ON WHERE WE ARE NOW –AND WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE YEAR AHEAD

Sustainability in the property sector is gaining momentum, but the journey is just beginning. Chris Loaring, Landmark’s Group Sustainability Director, likens it to a slow-moving train that will soon accelerate rapidly. The industry must act now to avoid being left behind.

The first major challenge is the urgency of near-term sustainability targets. With 2030 just five years away, firms that delay action risk falling short of net zero goals. The second challenge is interpreting evolving regulations and upskilling accordingly. The third – and most complex – is addressing scope 3 emissions, which are largely tied to supply chains and represent a shared challenge across the sector.

While net zero by 2050 feels achievable, the 2030 milestone is psychologically pressing. Sustainability initiatives require long lead times, and the only way to keep pace is through continuous learning and development. Regulatory expectations will intensify, and those who fail to adapt will face growing risk exposure.

Currently, demand for sustainable homes is limited by the preferences of the 35–50 age group. However, younger generations – soon to dominate the housing market – prioritise sustainability as a key decision factor. This shift will only accelerate. Over the past year, sustainability has moved from a “nice to have” to a business imperative. Regulatory changes and growing awareness mean that inaction is no longer an option.

Whether driven by values or necessity, the outcome is the same: sustainability delivers real value.

Landmark’s latest report features insights from experts at Latham & Watkins, Taylor Wimpey, Savills, OSB Group, and more. It highlights the importance of collaboration and shared learning to meet sustainability goals.

Read the full report at https://sustainability.landmark. co.uk/?utm_campaign=3752810-lig-sustainability%20servicesfy25-reflectionspredictions-p1-1&utm_source=LIG-Corp&utm_ content=Blog ■

By Chris Loaring Group Sustainability Director, Landmark Information Group

Why professional advice matters if you’re thinking of transferring a pension

Transferring a pension could potentially be a smart financial move but only when you have a full understanding of the implications.

Understanding what you might be giving up

Many pension schemes, often older ones, come with valuable benefits that may not be immediately obvious, including:

• Guaranteed annuity rates (GARs). These provide a fixed income for life, often at rates more generous than those available on the open market today

• Inflation-linked increases. This feature ensures your pension income increases in line with inflation, helping to preserve the purchasing power of your income throughout retirement

• Enhanced tax-free cash allowances. Some legacy pension schemes allow you to take a larger portion of your pension as a taxfree lump sum, exceeding the standard 25% limit available from most modern pensions (tax treatment may change)

• Employment benefits. If the pension is an employer-related plan, check if the employer will cease to pay in benefits if it is transferred elsewhere

Without expert analysis, these benefits can be overlooked or misunderstood. A financial adviser can help identify what’s at stake for both older and newer schemes, including additional aspects such as exit fees and time out of the market when the plan is in the process of being transferred, and whether transferring your pension would mean potentially losing out on long-term value.

The complexity of defined benefit schemes

Defined benefit (DB) pensions, often referred to as final salary pension schemes, are particularly complex. Although they offer guaranteed income for life, they typically only allow benefits to pass to a husband, wife or civil partner upon death. In contrast, modern pension arrangements can offer more flexible legacy planning options. That being said, the rules surrounding the inheritance tax (IHT) treatment of pensions is changing and the need to move out of a DB scheme for estate planning purposes will soon become redundant.

Transferring out of a DB pension scheme is not usually advisable and is heavily regulated. Only certain advisers are qualified to provide this type of advice, but their guidance ensures that any decision to transfer is made with full awareness of the trade-offs involved.

Flexibility and control in modern pensions

One of the main reasons people consider transferring a pension is to gain more control both when saving into the plan and when taking an income in retirement. Modern pensions, such as self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs), offer:

• Greater investment choices

• Flexible drawdown options

• The ability to nominate multiple beneficiaries

These features can be particularly useful for retirement planning and estate management. However, they are not suitable for everyone and also come with increased responsibility and complexity and may be more expensive. Also, it’s important to remember that from April 2027, pensions will fall inside your estate on death for IHT purposes (legislation surrounding this proposal from the 2024 Autumn Budget is yet to be finalised and could change). A financial adviser can help tailor a pension strategy that aligns with your legacy plans, retirement goals and attitude towards risk.

Please bear in mind that SIPPs are a form of investment and you may receive back less than you pay in.

Avoiding costly mistakes

Some people decide to transfer a pension scheme to reduce costs but cheaper isn’t always better. Low-cost schemes may lack flexibility or be invested in default lifestyle funds that don’t align with your retirement timeline or goals.

Professional financial planning advice helps ensure that any cost savings don’t come at the expense of performance or suitability. Wealth management advisers can also recommend bespoke investment strategies that may offer better long-term outcomes, even if they come with higher upfront costs.

Planning for the long term

Transferring a pension isn’t a one-time decision. Instead, it’s part of a broader retirement strategy. A financial planner can provide ongoing support, helping you adapt your plan as your circumstances change. Whether it’s a change in retirement age, a divorce, an inheritance or market volatility, having a trusted adviser ensures your pension remains aligned with your life goals.

Speak to Evelyn Partners about transferring your pension

Transferring a pension can unlock flexibility and improve retirement outcomes but only when done with a clear understanding of the risks and benefits involved. Professional financial advice is not just a safeguard. It’s a strategic investment in your future.

Before making any decisions, speak to Evelyn Partners, who can help you make informed, confident choices about what’s next for your pension and retirement plans. ■

By Emma Rivers APFS, Chartered Financial Planner, Evelyn Partners

Unlock the Power of Knowledge with Surrey Law Society's 2025 Training Programme!

What’s still to come in the SLS 2025 Training & Events Programme

As we move into spring, there’s still plenty to look forward to in the Surrey Law Society’s 2025 programme of training, events, and social opportunities. Whether you’re developing your expertise or making new connections, here are just some of the highlights still to come:

Professional Development Highlights

• In-person training sessions continue throughout the year, with a focus on Private Client, Property and Management.

• Employment Law series – new for 2025 and ideal for practitioners wanting to strengthen their specialist knowledge.

• Online learning options – join live or catch up with recordings, wherever you are.

• Free member webinars – accessible, high-quality training at no cost for SLS members.

Social & Networking Events

• Popular events return, including the Past President’s Championship Cup and the much-loved Quiz & Pizza Night.

• More regional socials to be announced – keep an eye out for opportunities to take part in the Elite Challenge and connect with peers.

• Join local MPs and representatives from other regional law societies at the County Societies Group Westminster Reception.

The 7th Annual SLS Legal Awards

Taking place on Thursday 16th October at G Live, Guildford – join us to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the legal profession in Surrey.

We look forward to welcoming you over the coming months – explore the programme and book your place now at www.surreylawsociety.org.uk. ■

SLS Pricing

Webinars & Workshops (1 hour): including notes and a copy of the recording

• Member Fee: Free of Charge

• Non-Member Fee: £45+VAT

Online Courses (1.5- 2 hours): including notes and a copy of the recording

• Early Bird Member Fee: £65+VAT

• Standard Member Fee: £75+VAT

• Non-Member Fee: £120+VAT

• Trainee Fee: £40+VAT

Extended Online Courses (2.5 hours): including notes and a copy of the recording

• Early Bird Member Fee: £85+VAT

• Standard Member Fee: £95+VAT

• Non-Member Fee: £140+VAT

• Trainee Fee: £45+VAT Courses (3 hours): including notes, refreshments and networking

• Early Bird Member Fee: £105+VAT

• Standard Member Fee: £125+VAT

• Non-Member Fee: £195+VAT

• Trainee Fee: £50+VAT

Social Events & Awards:

Details of fees will be announced with the invitations for each event.

Kindly be aware that there is an additional 1.5%+80p booking charge applied to the overall ticket price. ■

SLS Training & Events Programme 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

11.09.25 | 12.00 – 2.00pm | Online Course | Private Client THE FUTURE OF LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY –ADDITIONAL SAFEGUARDS AND A COMMON SENSE APPROACH

Speaker: Helen Forster, HTF Legal

17.09.25 | 12.00 – 2.00pm | Online Course | Family NAVIGATING DIFFICULT BEHAVIOURS FROM LITIGANTS IN PERSON: BEST PRACTICES AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

Speaker: Victoria Clarke, Elite Law Solicitors

18.09.25 | 09.00 – 11.30am | In-Person Workshop | Management DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER & PROSPECT EXPERIENCES: A PRACTICAL WORKSHOP FOR SURREY LAW SOCIETY MEMBERS

Speaker: Paul Matthews, insight6

25.09.25 | 12.30 – 1.30pm | Webinar | Property

SDLT – THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS AND EMERGING RISKS FOR RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCERS

Speaker: Stephen Desmond

OCTOBER 2025

01.10.25 | 12.00 – 1.30pm | Webinar | Property

AML COMPLIANCE FOR RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCERS: NAVIGATING REQUIREMENTS AND AVOIDING PITFALLS

Colette Best, Kingsley Napley LLP

16.10.24 | 6.30 – 11.30pm | Event | Awards

SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2025

Venue: G Live, Guildford

NOVEMBER 2025

06.11.25 | 12.30 – 1.30pm | Webinar | Family NON-COURT DISPUTE RESOLUTION IN PRACTICE: KEY UPDATES AND BEST PRACTICES

Speaker: Karen Barham, Moore Barlow

12.11.25 | 1.00 – 3.00pm | Online Course | Property ENFORCEMENT OF PLANNING & BUILDING REGULATIONS AND NHBC STANDARDS: PRACTICAL INSIGHTS FOR CONVEYANCERS

Speaker: Richard Snape, Davitt Jones Bould

DATE TBC | 12.30 – 1.30pm | Webinar | Private Client PRIVATE CLIENT CASE LAW UPDATE 2025: KEY DEVELOPMENTS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Speaker to be confirmed

13.11.25 | 12.30 – 1.30pm | Webinar | Employment

VULNERABLE PEOPLE: DISABLED PEOPLE AND CPR

Speaker: John Horan, Cloisters

DATE TBC | 2.00 – 5.00pm | In-Person Course | Private Client WILL DRAFTING RED FLAGS – AVOIDING COMMON PITFALLS

Speaker: James Lister, Stevens & Bolton

20.11.25 | 6.00 – 10.00pm | Event | Social SLS ANNUAL QUIZ AND PIZZA NIGHT Venue: Rogues Bar, Guildford

For more information on all Surrey Law Society Training & Events, please visit: www.surreylawsociety.org.uk

Charles Russell Speechlys Celebrates Nine Year Partnership with Community Foundation for Surrey

This year, Charles Russell Speechlys is marking a nine-year partnership with the Community Foundation for Surrey, which has resulted in the Guildford CRS Community Fund providing grants of £112,094 to support 20,108 beneficiaries in Surrey.

Charles Russell Speechlys set up the Fund in 2016, administered by the Community Foundation for Surrey, to provide donations to support local charities and organisations, with a particular emphasis on helping disadvantaged groups develop skills and gain access to new opportunities. The Fund is a key element of the firm’s social impact programme, which also involves staff volunteering and offering pro bono support to grant recipients - all with a view to developing lasting relationships with organisations driving positive social change. In fact, over the last 12 months, fee earners from Charles Russell Speechlys’ Guildford office have dedicated a total of 1,143 pro bono hours to charity work.

Sally Ashford, Partner and Head of the Guildford office at Charles Russell Speechlys said, “As a leading law firm advising charities and individuals on their philanthropic interests, we wanted to establish our own charitable initiative and support small charities and local community projects in and around Guildford. The Community Foundation for Surrey has been a fantastic partner in helping us to achieve these aims, enabling us to make a positive social impact in our local community. It has been a real privilege to have been able to support so many inspiring projects over the last nine years. It has also been extremely rewarding for so many of our team members to get involved with this programme.”

A volunteer panel from Charles Russell Speechlys in Guildford, consisting of lawyers (from partners to trainees) and support staff meets each quarter to evaluate and award grants. All employees at Charles Russell Speechlys are encouraged to give their time to volunteer. Very often, they choose to support charities which have been awarded grants from the CRS Community Fund – and help by providing practical support such as painting, gardening and pro bono advice. Over the last nine years, grant recipients have included Skillway, ReSkilled, Challengers, The Bike Project, Home-Start Guildford and Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy: Street Angels.

The Guildford CRS Community Fund is part of, and aligned with, the firm’s wider social impact programme, which focuses on three key areas – access to justice, building strategic charity partnerships and access to opportunity.

In 2020, Charles Russell Speechlys launched the CRS Foundation, a registered charity which receives donations from the firm for grants that advance justice. Since its inception, the CRS Foundation has provided the funds for the Guildford CRS Community Fund.

Zoe Coltart, Fund Development Manager, Community Foundation for Surrey added, “We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from Charles Russell Speechlys and the Charles Russell Speechlys Foundation.

Their long-standing commitment to community projects in Surrey has had a real and lasting impact. Thanks to their generous grants, local initiatives have been able to grow, reach more people, and provide much-needed support where it’s most needed. They really care about making a difference in the community, and their support means so much."

Home-Start UK and Home-Start Guildford

Home-Start Guildford is a registered independent charity affiliated to Home-Start UK which provides a range of home-based and community-based services to support vulnerable families who have a child or children under the age of 6. In particular, the charity supports local families living with pressures such as poverty, debt, unemployment and mental health issues, and provides practical help to around 150 families in Guildford each year.

Last year, a grant of £7,594 from the Guildford CRS Community Fund was given to Home-Start Guildford to fund a Home-Start Family Support Group in Bellfields and Slyfield for families with pre-school children. These Support Groups have helped to improve parenting skills, strengthen parent/child relationships, create positive play opportunities, and ultimately enhance children’s life chances.

Awarding funding to Home-Start Guildford felt particularly worthwhile as Charles Russell Speechlys’ Guildford office had been supporting the charity for a number of years in various capacities. Last Christmas, for example, a team at Charles Russell Speechlys prepared 48 hampers of games, books and food to help support local families in the area, having donated 45 Christmas hampers in 2023.

One team member, who has volunteered for Home-Start Guildford by supporting two local families, said, “I was able to see first-hand how regular support is very beneficial to a family facing challenges.”

In 2023, the firm’s local relationship with Home-Start Guildford extended to a national one, as Charles Russell Speechlys (UK) chose Home-Start UK to be one of its national charity partners. Part of that relationship included offering pro bono advice on a range of legal issues including reviewing grant agreements and delivering legal education workshops on wills, legacies and probate, charities law and data protection. In addition, Charles Russell Speechlys’ Marketing and IT teams shared knowledge and skills with the HomeStart UK team, enabling the organisation to save money on social media training and alleviate organisation-wide challenges.

Charles Russell Speechlys’ Guildford office continues to maintain a relationship with Home-Start Guildford, and is planning to put together more Christmas hampers this year. For further information about HomeStart Guildford, please visit www.hsguildford.org.uk. ■

Sally Ashford, Partner, UK Private Client and Head of the Guildford office at Charles Russell Speechlys

(L-R James Collins (Challengers), Harriet Betteridge, Frances Day, Richard Honey, Chris McIsaac (Corporate Engagement Manager, Challengers)

(L-R) Harriet Betteridge (Partner), Frances Day (Trainee) and Richard Honey (Partner) from Charles Russell Speechlys, with James Collins (Trust Fundraising Officer) from Challengers.

Guildford

Events Round-Up: Spring into Summer with SLS

As we look back on a busy and vibrant few months, we’re delighted to share highlights from some of the events that brought our members together this spring and early summer. From an exclusive industry briefing to an adrenaline-fuelled karting championship — and even tea at the House of Commons — it’s been a season full of insight, celebration, and connection.

Actionstep Lunchtime Briefing – Guildford, May 2025

We were pleased to partner with our Platinum Patron, Actionstep, for a special lunchtime briefing hosted at the offices of Stevens & Bolton LLP in Guildford. The session explored key findings from the 2025 UK Midsize Law Firm Priorities Report, offering a valuable look at the current landscape and challenges facing midsize firms.

A huge thank you goes to Tracey Longbottom, who delivered a compelling overview of the report's findings, covering everything from talent retention and strategic growth to cyber resilience and cultural transformation. Her insights sparked great discussion among attendees and offered practical takeaways for firms navigating an evolving legal landscape.

It was wonderful to welcome so many of our members from across the region to this event, and we’re grateful to Actionstep for their ongoing support and partnership with the Society.

County Societies Group Parliamentary Reception – House of Commons, May 2025

In a truly memorable afternoon, Surrey Law Society joined colleagues from across the national County Societies network for a Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons

Hosted by Steve Darling MP and organised by Devon & Somerset’s Tony Steiner, the event brought together representatives from Cheshire & North Wales, Devon & Somerset, Kent, Leicestershire, Newcastle Upon Tyne, and Surrey Law Societies. It was a brilliant opportunity to strengthen ties between societies and continue the important work of advocating for the interests of our members at a national level.

We were honoured to hear from Mark Evans and Frank Maher, who spoke powerfully about access to justice and the current regulatory landscape — topics that continue to shape the future of the profession.

Events like this underscore the importance of collaboration between local law societies, and we are proud to be part of a group that champions collective voice and shared learning.

Past Presidents’ Championship Cup – Daytona Sandown Park, July 2025

And finally — we swapped suits for race suits as the Past Presidents’ Championship Cup roared back into action at Daytona Sandown Park on 3rd July. With our reigning champions taking a break from the track this year, the field was wide open — and it was Elite Law Solicitors who stole the show with not one, but two teams on the podium!

• 1st Place: Team Rompe Palle (Elite Law Solicitors)

• 2nd Place: On Your Landmarks, Get Set, Go!

(Landmark Information Group)

• 3rd Place: Kartificial Intelligence (Elite Law Solicitors)

A huge well done to all the teams who took part — including those from our patrons Evelyn Partners, Actionstep, Finders International, Landmark, and Pro Drive IT — and a special mention goes to our very own Elouise Enright, who took home the (unofficial) award for Best Helmet of the night.

We also took a moment away from the racing action to recognise our Past President, Dawn Lawson, for her dedication and service to the Society. A small presentation was made by James Scozzi and Sushila Abraham, with warm thanks from all of us.

As always, events like this wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our patrons and the continued enthusiasm of our members. We’re already looking forward to next year’s race — but for now, a big congratulations to everyone who joined us for a great evening of competition, camaraderie and celebration.

Council Member’s ReportSummer 2025

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Robert Bourns, former President of the Law Society. Robert was a stalwart of the legal profession, a dedicated public servant, and a friend to many. He was the first Chair of the Board at the Law Society and gave an extraordinary amount of his time, energy and wisdom to the advancement of the profession. I am sure you will all join me in extending our heartfelt condolences to his wife and family.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the Law Society of England and Wales. Over the past six months, the Society has met with hundreds of members, aspiring lawyers, students, judges, local law societies, journalists, and members of the public. The anniversary tour has spanned more than 20 cities— from Cardiff and Newcastle to Nottingham, Birmingham, Bristol, and Norwich—and even extended beyond national borders to celebrate the global reputation and influence of UK law.

One of the final stops on this national tour was held in London on 23 June, underscoring the city’s importance as a global legal hub. Recent research* by the Law Society confirms that London continues to place a high level of trust in both lawyers and the broader legal industry.

As part of the bicentenary, the Law Society has also published recommendations from its ‘21st Century Justice’ project, offering a bold and practical vision for narrowing the justice gap. The report outlines key recommendations to government and the sector, including:

1. The creation of a free, AI-powered legal tool, similar to NHS 111, to help the public identify legal issues and access the appropriate support.

2. Urgent reform of civil legal aid, which is in critical need of investment to prevent the loss of skilled legal providers.

3. Improved access to the ombudsman system, making it more user-friendly and accessible to those seeking redress.

In related news, the government has just unveiled a 10-year Industrial Strategy, which, with the right investment, could support sustained growth in the legal sector. This is a positive step, but its success will depend on tangible action and adequate funding. Legal Futures (https://www.legalfutures.co.uk/latest-news/legalservices-a-national-asset-says-governments-industrial-strategy)

At present, a growing number of individuals are forced to represent themselves in court, often because they fall just above the financial threshold for legal aid. This is especially troubling

in cases involving domestic abuse, where the absence of legal representation can result in deeply unfair outcomes.

When legal aid is unavailable, many become litigants in person (LiPs). In abuse cases, the court is required to appoint a Qualified Legal Representative to cross-examine the victim instead of the alleged perpetrator. However, when such a representative is unavailable, the judge must step in, which compromises their independence and delays proceedings. Ensuring legal aid is available would protect the integrity of the system and ensure fair representation for all parties.

Worryingly, 40% of private law cases from January to March 2025 had no legal representation—a sharp increase since the introduction of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act (LASPO). The current scheme for Qualified Legal Representatives is under strain and failing to meet demand. An urgent review is essential.

You would have heard about the Legal Aid Agency data breach and the President has been in discussion with the LAA CEO in relation to this not happening again and the steps to take to protect our members.

The Law Society has launched a research project to understand how well the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) prepares solicitors for practice and to identify any gaps in knowledge or skills. The findings will help develop a training framework to support newly qualified solicitors to thrive in practice. There is a survey, and you have to log in to your MyLS to take part in the survey.

Finally, you may already be aware that the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has appointed Sarah Rapson as its new Chief Executive, succeeding Paul Philip upon his departure. We look forward to seeing her leadership in action.

I would once again request that if you have not updated your details on MyLS, then please do it and if you have not registered on MyLS, then please do register in order to receive updates etc.

Please do let me know if you have any issues that you wish to discuss with me or would like me to take to the Law Society. ■

Sushila Abraham

Council Member for Surrey at the Law Society

Sushila Abraham

Surrey Junior Lawyers Division

Your Junior Lawyers Division Needs You!

Are you an enthusiastic junior lawyer in Surrey? If so, the Surrey Junior Lawyers Division (SJLD) invites you to nominate yourself in its upcoming election!

Eligible candidates include those with 0-5 years PQE as Solicitors or Barristers, Pupil Barristers, Trainee Solicitors, junior In-House lawyers, CILEX members or trainees, paralegals, legal assistants, and University students.

We’ve got a number of roles up for grabs this year, including:

• Vice Chair

• Sponsorship Representative

• National JLD Representative

• Surrey Law Society Representatives

• Secretary

• Digital Marketing Representative

• Charity Representative

• Events Representative (x 2)

• Diversity & Inclusion Representative

• Universities & Colleges Representative

To nominate yourself for one of these roles, simply email sjldelection@gmail.com by 17:00 on Friday, 8 August 2025. In your application, specify the position(s) you wish to apply for and explain why you are the ideal candidate for both the SJLD committee and the specific role(s). There is no word limit, so feel free to elaborate on your relevant experience and ideas. If you really want to stand out, it is best to highlight what you would contribute to the committee and propose initiatives you plan to implement.

Why Apply?

The SJLD is one of the most dynamic and active local junior lawyer divisions in England and Wales (and possibly the world?), offering a fantastic platform for committed, hardworking,

and enthusiastic junior lawyers eager to engage and boost their Surrey legal community. Joining the SJLD Committee not only enhances your professional profile but also offers the chance to build lasting relationships that could lead to future opportunities and referrals for your team (big partner brownie points!)

What time commitment is involved?

The time commitment varies by role and your availability, ranging from 3-5 hours a month to 3-5 hours a week during the busiest periods. We are a supportive committee and recognise that your feeearning responsibilities come first (those bills ain’t gonna pay themselves) but we do hold monthly committee meetings on Microsoft Teams on the first Tuesday of each month from 19:00 to 20:00 which you’ll need to join as this is where we discuss initiatives and plan upcoming projects.

What’s Then?

The SJLD committee will review all nominations anonymously and hold elections on Tuesday, 12 August 2025. You will be informed of the outcome of your application following the election. Successful candidates will participate in handovers by 30 August 2025, with the new term commencing on 1 September 2025.

If you have any questions about joining the SJLD committee, please contact us at surreyjuniorlawyersdivision@gmail.com

Insurance News from Konsileo

We have heard about the M&S cyber-attack and even the Legal Aid Agency have suffered a ‘security incident!’ Supply chain attacks can have devastating consequences, particularly for law firms who handle sensitive client information.

Another notable example is the cyber-attack on CTS, an IT Provider for law firms in the UK, which resulted in total loss of IT to over 80 law firms and potentially affected up to 200. Real Estate transactions were halted, deals couldn’t complete. The fall-out was substantial with it taking nearly a month to restore services. This incident highlights the importance of having robust cyber security measures in place and the role of cyber insurance in mitigating financial losses.

Fraudsters are bypassing MFA, Microsoft 365 is not configured correctly, cloud suppliers being targeted so fraudsters can reconfigure customers firewalls! These are just a few of the things I am seeing within insurance claims.

To address these challenges, partnering with experts who specialise in supply chain risk mitigation can be highly beneficial. These partners can deliver tailored programmes that focus on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities within your supply chain, ensuring that your firm is better protected against potential cyber threats.

Cyber Insurance is there as a last resort. Working with Tom Sykes of Stiperstone IT, we are teaming up, to provide proactive risk mitigation services alongside our insurance proposition. They will work alongside your current IT provider to add in that additional layer of security.

Contact me for further details and see how we can help your firm be protected. ■

By Chris Cotterill Cert CII Client Director

Dye & Durham Enhances Environmental Due Diligence with ClimateCheck™ Integration

New EnviroAssure and Enviro360™ reports equip conveyancers with future-focused climate data ahead of anticipated updated Law Society guidance

Dye & Durham UK has announced the official launch of two new environmental search reports, EnviroAssure and Enviro360™, delivering a next-generation approach to environmental due diligence for conveyancers and their homebuying clients.

Both products feature ClimateCheck™, Dye & Durham’s proprietary solution for assessing climate-related risks today and over the course of a typical mortgage lifetime – out to 2030 and beyond to 2050.

EnviroAssure and Enviro360™ represent a major evolution in environmental searches, combining all the critical datasets required for compliance with Law Society Practice Notes on Contaminated Land and Flood Risk, with the added intelligence of forward-looking climate impact assessment. Designed to be both comprehensive and easy to interpret, the reports provide a clear, visual indicator of risk changes over time, empowering solicitors to better advise their clients and helping buyers make more informed decisions.

Tim Champney, Director, Property Risk & GeoData at Dye & Durham UK, said: “The conversation around climate change has shifted. Conveyancers have an increasingly clear duty to inform clients of environmental risks that could materially impact the value, enjoyment or insurability of their future home. Our ClimateCheck™ tool makes this not only possible but practical.”

Two Products, One Consistent Approach to Climate Risk

• EnviroAssure is a highly detailed environmental search incorporating ClimateCheck™, radon, planning, energy & infrastructure, enhanced flood analysis, ground stability (including coastal erosion), contaminated land, and property energy efficiency.

• Enviro360™ includes all of the above, along with an integrated CON29M Official Coal Mining Report, consultative Mine Entry Interpretive Report (MEIR), and a triple-tier suite of protections including a Non-Coal Minerals Warranty, £100K Coal Search Data Warranty, and a Cheshire Brine Screen.

Both reports are underpinned by a single, consistent climate model using the RCP4.5 scenario, widely considered the most likely emissions pathway. This ensures a unified view of future risk to avoid blending multiple, and often conflicting, climate pathways.

ClimateCheck™ delivers an at-a-glance front page summary, providing direction and magnitude of change for perils including river, sea and surfacewater flooding, coastal erosion and clay subsidence. Each risk is rated using a simple five-point scale (from “Decrease”, “No Change” to “Increase”) to show whether risk is expected to change and by how much. Other pertinent considerations, including an analysis of exposure to heat stress, is also coming soon, for a full picture.

Concludes Tim: “We’re proud to provide a solution that doesn’t just surface risk but adds context and clarity for end-users. Our reports provide easyto-understand analysis, along with practical advice that end-customers will greatly value, enabling them to make informed decisions without burdening conveyancers with the need to interpret complex data.”

As a strategic partner of the Law Society and a member of COPSO, Dye & Durham has been actively involved in consultations on the forthcoming updated Law Society Climate Guidance, due in May 2025.

Feedback from early adopters of the soft-launched products has been overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the intuitive layout, digestibility of insights, and value-add for end-clients.

For more information, visit: www.dyedurham.co.uk ■

Aaron Pendlebury

In an era of constant change, people development has never been more important

The legal sector today is one defined by constant change and evolving client expectations. Alongside this is a new generation of legal and business professionals entering the sector with different expectations, not just about their careers, but about how technology should be integrated into the way they work and, of course, learn. The role of Learning & Development (L&D) has never been more critical. No longer just a support function, it is now seen as a strategic driver of performance, excellence, and growth. This is certainly the case at Stevens & Bolton, where our L&D approach is designed to accelerate the firm’s ability to meet its strategic growth objectives. An ethos which speaks to “Growth delivered not by the few, but by the many, legal and business professionals alike”.

The SQE era

Focusing on legal teams, the introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has reshaped the pathway into the profession. While it promises consistency and accessibility, many firms are still grappling with how best to support SQE trainees in developing the practical, commercial, and interpersonal skills that traditional routes once embedded. Those core skills, not just knowledge, that enable trainees to become high performing NQs from which to launch a successful career here at Stevens & Bolton have shaped the pillars of their new career development frameworks.

At Stevens & Bolton, we are embracing this shift. We have structured development pathways that blend technical training with hands-on client experience. Our SQE trainees are mentored by senior lawyers and exposed to client work early on – ensuring they progress from exam-ready to practiceready. But that’s only part of the picture. Today’s lawyers need to be more than just technically gifted. As they advance, they will increasingly be responsible for managing people, clients, profitability, and business growth, all of which are capabilities you can build with investment in mentoring, exposure to the right opportunities and focused L&D programs.

Holistic development

Our L&D programs therefore emphasise not just legal expertise – which remains at the heart of our Junior Lawyer Development Program – but also core attributes like leadership, commerciality, and client relationship management. These are the qualities that are increasingly important as a lawyer’s career develops and are most valued by clients. As a result, we are evolving our L&D programs to purposely curate these experiences, deriving true value from collaborating with functional experts, including our BD team, for example, which is investing in a sophisticated all-partner training program that is designed to strategically develop our partners’ relationship development skills.

This wider, holistic development and capability building is a strategic priority for the firm. As an independent firm, we recognise that our success comes from a variety of factors; our excellent relationships with our clients, the quality of our people, our brand, and the way our leaders empower individual performance. However, achieving double-digit growth year on year is also a direct result of investment in our people. Continuing this through focused L&D initiatives is my top priority for the years ahead.

With many law firms now using AI tools in some form, legal technology is no longer a niche skill – it’s a core competency. From document automation to e-discovery and contract analytics, lawyers are expected to understand and leverage these tools to deliver faster, smarter outcomes for clients. Perhaps a key difference at Stevens & Bolton is that our L&D team understands that, whilst junior associates and trainees may be more tech-savvy, this needs to be blended with the knowledge and experience of senior lawyers. Having sophisticated tools is only part of a solution to future-proofing a legal career.

We also recognise, however, the risk of over-reliance on tech, which can erode foundational skills like legal research and drafting. That’s why our L&D strategy includes functional training led by our Knowledge team, for example around simulated casework, peer reviews, or tech-assisted research exercises, as well as leveraging expertise from our Technology team, which is leading innovation efforts to enhance and embed tools in direct support of our L&D program.

Business growth

To continue to grow and deliver against our strategic objectives, we understand that our lawyers must develop their expertise not just in the law, but in the business of law. This includes how firms generate profit, manage risk, and deliver value to clients. In response to this challenge, we are developing programs that also support our senior lawyers and future partners on key topics such as law firm economics, pricing strategy, and client relationship management – ensuring lawyers at all levels are equipped with the necessary skills and supported to lead and contribute to the firm’s growth.

It is because of this approach that one of the five pillars of our employee career framework is dedicated to an individual’s contribution to the growth of our business, allowing opportunity for all employees to share in the firm’s drive for success. At Stevens & Bolton we believe that everyone has a role to play in delivering our strategy. Providing L&D support to unlock an individual’s potential is deliberately designed to engender a sense of responsibility for growth into our culture.

Continuous learning

Learning is not a one-off event – it’s a continuous process and this is just the beginning. We are investing in digital learning platforms, knowledge sharing, and cross-practice knowledge development to ensure our people are constantly developing and that, as a firm, we are never standing still. In support of this, we will continue to take time to listen closely to what our people need, whether that’s mental health support, flexible learning formats, or alternative career pathways.

As reflected in our nomination for Law Firm of the Year: the Independents at this year’s The Lawyer Awards, and Legal Cheek’s Law Firm of the Year 2025 accolade, our investment in our people is working. ■

By Aaron Pendlebury Head of People & Talent, Stevens & Bolton

Legal tech competency

Full Circle: From Winner to Sponsor of the SLS Lawyer of the Year Award

Helen Clifford of Helen Clifford Law, SLS Legal Awards Lawyer of the Year 2023 and proud sponsor of the SLS Lawyer of the Year Award 2025, shares what receiving the prestigious Award meant to her.

As SLS Lawyer of the Year 2023, I am honoured to be sponsoring this year’s prestigious award. To be recognised for excellence in legal practice by a panel of esteemed judges and for making a meaningful impact in the community was deeply affirming - both professionally and personally. I remain incredibly grateful to the judges and fellow nominees who made the moment possible.

Since receiving the award, Helen Clifford Law has continued to grow from strength to strength. This year, I am delighted to have welcomed a Practice Manager, Stephanie Battley, to the firm. Our unwavering commitment to our clients remains at the very heart of everything we do. For the firm to be recognised for our commitment to social responsibility, community engagement and improvement has been immensely rewarding and is the very DNA of Helen Clifford Law.

The firm is proud to be ongoing supporters of a number of charities, one being The Back Up Trust - a remarkable organisation helping individuals who have sustained life-changing spinal cord injuries. This year, we are thrilled to be sponsoring tetraplegic Karter and Back Up Trust employee, Chris Yeates, as he takes on the challenge of Adaptive Karting. Following a life-changing road accident in 2006, Chris wanted to get back to karting but did not think it was possible with his level of injury. After seeing how other tetraplegics had adapted their karts, Chris did the same and will be competing in his first ever FFSA Handikart Championship Race in Mirecourt, France, in September this year. In fact, he will be the first ever UK entry and we are hugely excited to be sharing the experience with him. Chris’s next stop will be the first ever adaptive kart race to be held at the world-famous UK Silverstone racetrack in 2026. Chris is a powerful example of how ‘seeing is believing’ - his journey shows others that there is life after injury, a truth we are also relentlessly dedicated to supporting.

I founded Helen Clifford Law with a clear mission: to achieve justice for those who have been wronged. For over 28 years I have had the privilege of helping clients, particularly those injured or treated unfairly in the workplace, to rebuild their lives and regain financial security. Securing their future continues to drive me every day and is immensely rewarding. I am proud of what I do and I feel privileged to be able to help.

Since winning the SLS Lawyer of the Year Award I have continued to achieve outstanding outcomes for my clients. One recent success was a high-profile settlement case against the BBC. I am delighted to have enabled my client to recover the compensation necessary to help him rebuild his life. Medical injury compensation can pay for the best treatment, and it has always been an essential part of Helen Clifford Law to ensure our clients achieve just that, but it does not end there. The rehabilitation and the rebuilding of lives turned upside down in an instant can take time and be tough, but with the right help, it can be done.

While supporting clients across a wide range of injury claims, much of my focus has been on injustice within the construction industry. My father, Frank Clifford, was a founding member of the Construction Safety Campaign - a cause I continue to support passionately. No one should be injured or killed at work. In a civilised society, we have a duty to ensure safe working conditions for all. I do not want to keep attending inquests or supporting clients through HSE prosecutions. I cannot stop workplace accidents - but I will never stop fighting to make them less likely.

Being recognised by SLS for ‘going above and beyond’ for my clients has been very meaningful for me. It is not just about legal results; it is about giving people a voice and helping them move forward. This has always been my motivation. Receiving the SLS Lawyer of the Year Award inspired me to continue to do my absolute best for my clients, their families, and their loved ones. I trust that the winner of this year’s award will feel the same.

Affordable Justice offers flexible working for women solicitors

Affordable Justice, the nonprofit family law firm dedicated to working with women who are unable to get legal aid, has doubled its office space and is again looking to expand its team of solicitors to help with the growing number of women escaping from often violent and abusive partners. The firm, which operates within an Alternative Business Structure, is specifically looking for women solicitors who would prefer to practice law within a more flexible working environment that is family friendly.

70 per cent of the firm's consultations are carried out virtually, and often at times outside of normal working hours. A more flexible, virtual model of working perfectly complements the more empathetic nature required when working with vulnerable women.

"Working in domestic abuse can be one of the most satisfying areas of law, and over the years we have evolved a working structure which not only suits our client base, but also suits the demands often placed on working women," said Affordable Justice founder and director Sue Sedgwick. "This is an incredibly exciting time for us - from humble beginnings working from a small room in a gifted ex-council house, to moving into a brand new, purpose built suite of offices in the first purpose built women's centre in Hull, we are committed to providing the best legal support and services to women who are seeking to break that cycle of abuse and control."

Affordable Justice was established in 2016 in response to the cuts made to legal aid as a result of LASPO. Solicitor Sue Sedgwick was concerned about the growing impact on women who were no longer eligible to receive legal aid and were increasingly trapped in abusive situations with no viable means of escape. As a nonprofit, Affordable Justice is able to offer the same level of services of a commercial family law firm at a third of the normal cost.

"It was important not to compromise on both the sustainability of the business as a whole, and the high levels of service we wanted to offer," continued Sue Sedgwick. "The structure of

Affordable Justice - a nonprofit Alternative Business Structure with charitable status - has created a self-sustaining commercial entity which can compete with the high street firms in terms of career opportunities and professional development but is also incredibly rewarding."

Based in Hull, Affordable Justice works with women the length and breadth of England and Wales. It specialises in family law, private children matters, divorce and finance, domestic abuse, and is looking to expand its team in all these areas, as well as adding an expert in separating and dissolving assets.

"It is important to stress that we are a firm of women, working for women," added Sue Sedgwick. "A feminist thread runs through everything we do, which enhances the woman's voice. Over the years this has given us a 97% success rate in achieving the desired outcome for our clients."

If you are interested in working with Affordable Justice please contact Sue Sedgwick at info@affordablejustice.co.uk.

Sue Sedgewick, Director and Founder, Affordable Justice

LEAP launches LEAP Leads to help law firms win new clients

LEAP, the market-leading cloud-based legal software provider, has launched LEAP Leads, providing law firms with direct access to high-quality, real-time legal enquiries from prospective clients actively seeking legal services.

Designed to help small to mid-sized law firms grow their client base, LEAP Leads connects firms using LEAP with prospective clients. These leads are automatically delivered within the LEAP system, enabling firms to access potential clients and respond faster and more efficiently than ever before.

Gareth Walker, CEO of LEAP, comments,

"Generating new business has always been a challenge for smaller firms who are often juggling casework with the pressures of marketing and client acquisition. LEAP Leads gives firms a clear advantage by providing them access to people with legal queries and delivering them straight into the software they use every day. “

The benefits of LEAP Leads

Marketing and generating new leads can be expensive for law firms. Many firms invest heavily in advertising, content creation, and search engine optimisation to capture potential clients’ attention. LEAP Leads removes this burden by delivering high-quality leads through the consolidated marketing efforts and integration with LawConnect.com – reducing a law firm’s marketing costs and efforts significantly.

Firms automatically have access to LEAP Leads from within their LEAP system and begin receiving enquiries tailored to their specific practice areas and location.

LEAP Leads provides firms with:-

• Immediate access to genuine legal enquiries across multiple areas of law.

• Seamless integration with existing LEAP software, requiring no additional setup.

• The ability to track, respond to, and manage leads in one central location.

• Prospective clients who have proactively sought out legal information and requested to be connected to a lawyer.

How it works

LEAP Leads is powered by AI and tightly integrated with LawConnect, a public-facing platform where individuals can ask legal questions and receive AI-generated answers.

When a legal query is submitted through LawConnect, the AI begins a conversation to gather relevant details and generates a summary report for the consumer. The prospective client can then choose to connect with a lawyer and request a quote.

Using LEAP law firms can access and manage the incoming qualified leads via a simple to use dashboard. Through a secure messaging system, firms can engage with potential clients, discuss options, and seamlessly onboard new business—converting leads into matters with just one click.

LEAP Leads is part of LEAP’s ongoing effort to support law firms with smart tools that simplify client intake, enhance efficiency, and drive business growth.

To learn more about LEAP Leads, visit: www.leap.co.uk/features/leap-leads ■

Dangers of AI Voice Cloning for Law Firms

Most firms in the legal sector are aware of the dangers of impersonation scams, especially conveyancers who will be familiar with ‘Friday afternoon fraud’ where cyber criminals infiltrate the email conversations between homebuyers and their solicitors, with the intention of tricking the buyer into transferring the money into a criminal bank account.

Whilst measures have been taken to prevent such fraud, criminals have found ways around them and, using the latest generative AI tools, have made the scams even more convincing. Furthermore, they have supplemented the use of email with text messages and telephone calls in an effort to deceive their victims.

A more recent development, particularly worrying for law firms, is voice cloning – where AI tools are used to generate an artificial voice sounding almost identical to that of the original speaker. This might sound like something from the Terminator but it is in fact incredibly easy to do, and there have already been some well documented cases where it has been used to defraud businesses of very significant amounts of money.

Are people really fooled by AI voices?

A 2023 study by security company McAfee found that AI voice cloning tools can replicate a person’s voice with up to 95% accuracy and the evidence suggests that telling the difference is getting harder and harder as these tools improve.

If you are not convinced then try researching AI voice generation and cloning tools on the web. These are legitimate web services designed for creative and publishing purposes, but can also be used for criminal activities. Such tools can create a realistic sounding clone with just 20 seconds of sample voice. When fed with 2 minutes or more of the sample voice, the cloned voice is frighteningly accurate.

To reinforce how accurate this technology has become, the BBC tried to fool online banking security systems using AI cloned voices as part of their scam safe week. Very worryingly they were successful in getting past the security of two mainstream banks and gaining account access using it.

So how do AI voice scams work?

Imagine getting a call from a financial advisor about investing more money in a scheme they are running for you. There is a limited time to do this and you are being given a last opportunity. You recognise the caller – it’s someone you have spoken to several times before from a firm you trust. However in this case the person on the other end of the line is actually a criminal. They gained your details after a successful cyber attack on your financial advisor and used a video your advisor placed on LinkedIn to clone their voice.

This unfortunately is no longer science fiction; there are publicly available tools on the internet which can clone voices from recordings with worrying accuracy. Whilst there are many legitimate uses for this technology, the potential for criminal use is clear and it is already happening at scale. The McAfee study identified that 25% of respondents had experienced or know someone who has experienced a voice cloning attack with nearly three quarters of those attacked being successfully duped and suffering some kind of loss.

What can you do about it?

AI voice cloning scams target both businesses and individuals. From a personal perspective ensure you have ‘code words’ with family members or trusted friends who might ask you to transfer money or deal in other confidential matters.

In your business, code words can also help with internal company authorisations. However, more important is having robust multiple step authorisation processes on financial transactions. Also try and authorise with multiple methods or call back the person you think you have received a call from on a known number.

To protect your clients, ensure you make it clear, both when onboarding but also reinforcing throughout your relationship, that you won’t give instructions over the phone. Use a secure client portal and have robust authorisation methods. It is also now advised to use software solutions for secure authorisation using mobile phones with biometric authentication (although you can also use manual methods to achieve the same).

Above anything else, always be vigilant and if something feels even slightly suspicious, then treat it as a scam and hang up and call the person back on a known number. Remember these scams often target people who criminals can find voice recordings of online and these are often senior people in organisations such as partners and directors. Don’t let their seniority prevent you from questioning the legitimacy of the call. ■

Bruce Penson MD, Pro Drive IT

DISCRIMINATION IN HOUSING LAW

By David Renton

ESSENTIAL READING FOR HOUSING PRACTITIONERS ACTING FOR CLIENTS FACED WITH REPOSSESSION

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

Tlhere is very little that strikes more terror in the souls of its victims than the threat of impending homelessness via the judicial processes involved, which culminate in the process of eviction.

There ought to be an erudite and readable le book about it — and there is, thanks to this very useful publication from the Legal Action Group (LAG), the access to justice charity, who are justly famed for producing legal texts accessible not only to lawyers, but to the average concerned reader. David Renton, the author, is a barrister who represents tenants and mortgage holders embroiled in possession hearings.

Published in handy paperback format, the book offers a broad and concise coverage of ‘the use of the principles of equality in housing law’ — and equally of prime importance — the duty of landlords to fulfil their duties under the general categories of fitness and repossession.

As the publishers point out, the book covers the often complex and controversial matters, for example, of council houses let by housing associations, as well as houses held in thrall either to mortgages, or long leases. It should be added that homeowners in mortgage arrears suffer the same anxieties as those who rent — hence the general and urgent need for all practitioners to be duly bound in support of clients who struggle with these and other difficulties in the housing sector.

Practitioners and clients alike coming to grips with these problems will find this book especially helpful. As a concise work of reference, it truly excels. The precise introduction points directly to the subject of the book, namely the Equality Act of 2010 and its related principles — which apply both to business premises and residential properties.

Straightforward to navigate, the book has a detailed table of contents, enabling the reader — lawyer of not — to find the necessary advice they may be looking for, and for those doing further research, the book contains extensive footnotes, plus a detailed and useful index at the back.

Note too, the particular advantage of a 30-page section of precedents — including for example, the precedent entitled ‘Case Summary Application to Set Aside Possession Order.’ Also included in this concise text are Tables of Statutes, Statutory Instruments and also a Table of European and International Legislation.

For practitioners and clients alike, this book emerges as a practical and indispensable purchase. ■

dogstrust.org.uk

MAKING LAWFUL DECISIONS A guide for decision-makers on acting within the law

LEGAL ACTION GROUP

By Victoria Butler-Cole KC and Steve Broach KC LAWYER OR NOT, A DECISION MAKER NEEDS TO KNOW THE LAW

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

If you have found yourself — or your client — in the position of being appointed as a decision-maker over a number of issues in either the public or private sectors, you need this book, recently published by the Legal Action Group (LAG), the access to justice charity, who are justly famed for producing legal texts accessible not only to lawyers, but to the average concerned reader.

Pertinent, applicable and directly accessible to lawyers and nonlawyers alike, this book emerges as an essential guide — no doubt about that — to both the basics and the possible and probable complexities which, more often than not, are likely to emerge in the decision-making process.

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With depth and clarity, a wide range of issues are discussed, with a focus on the most controversial, including for example, cases pertaining to equality and human rights. The book therefore covers a lot of ground in explaining an extensive and complex subject, with the thoroughness and clarity that makes it accessible to all decisionmakers — lawyers and non-lawyers alike.

As the LAG explains, the book’s overall aim is to ensure that “a decision-making process follows a lawful process.” And that includes, appropriately, answers to the problems of those who are aggrieved by a decision and therefore considering a complaint, or a legal challenge.

The first chapter to turn to is the ‘Checklist’ and an invaluable checklist it is. Certainly, it covers such necessities as powers, problems, evidence and much, much more, including what to do if your decision is challenged — a challenge indeed.

Certainly, this compact volume provides a treasure trove of useful resources for further research. Note the almost twenty pages of Tables of Cases plus the Table of Statutes and Statutory Instruments - and a Table of European and International Instruments. Also note the handy index, the glossary of legal terms and the extensive footnotes — indispensable if more detailed research is required — and it usually is, in so many circumstances.

“A guide for decision makers on acting within the law” is the book’s subtitle and an excellent guide it is. Any lawyer advising clients embroiled in these or similar problems should very quickly acquire a copy. ■

The Solicitors’ Charity’s Big Report 2024 reveals threefold rise in demand for support as solicitors face growing pressures

Agrowing number of solicitors across England and Wales are reaching breaking point, with The Solicitors’ Charity revealing a massive threefold increase in requests for support.

The charity’s newly-published Big Report 2024 shows a stark reality as the number of solicitors seeking help with emotional wellbeing issues soared, with referrals for professional support up by 178%.

The rise reflects growing pressure on professionals facing burnout, longterm illness, unexpected redundancy and rising living costs. This, along with providing the everyday support needed with a wide variety of chronic wellbeing issues, which helps people back to being self-supporting, is what the charity delivered in 2024; and the level of demand is continuing into 2025.

Overall, the charity has seen a 60% increase in the provision of financial wellbeing assistance - part of the response to an unprecedented increase in enquiries from solicitors dealing with debt, emotional wellbeing and physical health issues.

In response, The Solicitors’ Charity:

• Gave £1.17 million in financial and other wellbeing grants through 861 separate awards

• Saw a 178% rise in referrals for emotional wellbeing support

• Helped with nearly £1.7 million in debt, including £896,000 written off through a partnership with Pennysmart – the charity’s budgeting, benefits and regulated debt advice partner

• Supported 110 referrals for debt, benefits and money advice

• Noted a doubling in the number of funded referrals to expert career coaching service, Renovo.

Nick Gallagher, CEO of The Solicitors’ Charity, said:

“Another year has passed – and once again, it’s been far from easy for many working in the legal profession. Solicitors continue to face mounting pressures and the surge in emotional support referrals shows just how deeply many solicitors are struggling.

“Our role as a safety net is more vital than ever, as is the legal sector’s responsibility to look after its own whether as an employer in a firm, or as a member of one of the institutions that champion, support and regulate solicitors. What’s clearly needed is a more compassionate, collaborative, and connected profession, one that takes care of its people as much as it does clients and consumers.

“This year, we’re stepping up our efforts to build stronger ties with firms, support organisations, and sector leaders. We’re launching a new engagement programme designed to help firms better understand how they can play an active role in supporting people in the profession to ensure that no one slips through the cracks.

“We urge the legal community to read and share this report – and to support us in reaching every solicitor who needs help.”

The Big Report 2024 also reveals that more younger solicitors are now seeking help, and 68% of those supported identified as having a disability, which is far above the number in wider society.

Nina*, one of the charity’s clients, shared her experience: “The Solicitors’ Charity was a lifesaver. My levels of stress were high, so finding the charity was a Godsend and knowing it would help lifted a huge weight from me.”

A Case Manager from the charity’s Wellbeing & Grants Team, who has day-to-day contact with those in stressful situations, added: “The support we offer is a real lifeline. It validates the role of The Solicitors’ Charity as a critical safety net for the profession.”

The full Big Report 2024 is available to read online: https:// thesolicitorscharity.org/big-report/

Find out how you can 'Play Your Part’ in supporting the charity, at https:// www.thesolicitorscharity.org/play-your-part/

*Name changed to protect the client’s identity.

CELEBRATING 1O YEARS OF DIGITAL CONVEYANCING

In 2015, InfoTrack opened its doors with a mission to make conveyancing better for everyone. A decade later, we’re proud to support over 25,000 professionals across 2,400 law firms, helping redefine how property transactions are managed.

From launching the UK’s first digital AP1 to onboarding over one million clients through eCOS, we’ve consistently delivered technology firsts that remove friction and empower law firms to work with confidence.

Surrey Lawyer JULY 2025

Time-saving solutions for busy solicitors

KEY OFFICERS

LAW SOCIETY COUNCIL MEMBER

President’s Jottings

SUMMER 2025

ACEO Report SUMMER 2025

Championing Conversations and Insights

Member Representation in Focus

1. Anti-Money Laundering Reform

2. SRA First-Tier Complaints Consultation

Looking Ahead

High-Profile Hires to Support Stevens & Bolton Growth Strategy

Blackfords LLP Promotes Lucinda Shand to Partner and Head of Criminal Defence Team

Downs Solicitors LLP announces new leadership

Taylor Rose parent AIIC Group rolls out cloud-based practice management platform

Salesforce-based system aims to enhance efficiency, productivity and service levels while supporting talent attraction and retention

More than 19,000 solicitors walk for justice as The Solicitors’ Charity plays its part in the success of the London Legal Walk 2025

8 Reasons Solicitors Prefer Clio for Their Practices

Using a Deed of Variation to Facilitate Charitable Giving

Professional Considerations

The Role of the Community Foundation

Practical Impact: The Stonar Brighter Futures Fund

Booking Now Open

11. PRIVATE CLIENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

13. SUPPORT TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR

12. PROPERTY LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

BOOKING IS OPEN!

SHAUN WALLACE

Reflections and Predictions for Sustainability in the Property Sector in 2025.

THE PROPERTY AND LAND EXPERTS' VIEW ON WHERE WE ARE NOW –AND WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE YEAR AHEAD

Why professional advice matters if you’re thinking of transferring a pension

Flexibility and control in modern pensions

Unlock the Power of Knowledge with Surrey Law Society's 2025 Training Programme!

SLS Pricing

SLS Training & Events Programme 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

OCTOBER 2025

NOVEMBER 2025

Charles Russell Speechlys Celebrates Nine Year Partnership with Community Foundation for Surrey

Events Round-Up: Spring into Summer with SLS

Council Member’s ReportSummer 2025

Surrey Junior Lawyers Division

Your Junior Lawyers Division Needs You!

Insurance News from Konsileo

Dye & Durham Enhances Environmental Due Diligence with ClimateCheck™ Integration

Two Products, One Consistent Approach to Climate Risk

Holistic development

Business growth

Continuous learning

Full Circle: From Winner to Sponsor of the SLS Lawyer of the Year Award

Affordable Justice offers flexible working for women solicitors

LEAP launches LEAP Leads to help law firms win new clients

The benefits of LEAP Leads

How it works

Dangers of AI Voice Cloning for Law Firms

DISCRIMINATION IN HOUSING LAW

MAKING LAWFUL DECISIONS A guide for decision-makers on acting within the law

LEGAL ACTION GROUP

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CELEBRATING 1O YEARS OF DIGITAL CONVEYANCING

Articles inside

Dangers of AI Voice Cloning for Law Firms

ARTICLE

ARTICLE

ARTICLE

ARTICLE

Surrey Junior Lawyers Division

Council Member’s Report

EVENTS

ARTICLE

TRAINING & EVENTS

ARTICLE

ARTICLE

SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2025

ARTICLE

ARTICLE

NEWS

CEO Report

Surrey Law Society Officers