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22. My Eight-Year Journey with Birmingham Law Society: James Farmer
24.The Importance Of A Solicitor’s Words- A Review Of Undertakings
26. Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeships: The Affordable Path to a Legal Career
30. Top Ten Disadvantages Of Not Using Workflow In Your Practice
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President’s Letter
That’s Much Betta !
Once again, I have the pleasure of putting pen to paper to share a few reflections from another fantastic Birmingham Law Society event.
On 16th May 2025, we hosted our Alternative Dinner –with a twist at the beautiful Burlington Hotel, right in the heart of Birmingham. Many of you had asked for more central dinner events, and we were delighted to deliver just that.
The evening featured two outstanding speakers: Becca Horley of Shoosmiths, our 2025 Solicitor of the Year, and Sioned Davies of No5 Chambers, our 2025 Junior Barrister of the Year. Both shared powerful reflections on their journeys into the legal profession – the challenges they’ve faced, the lessons they’ve learned, and the passions that drive them forward. Their honesty and insight were truly inspiring, and I want to thank them both once again for generously sharing their stories with us.
We were also joined by a very special guest – Baga Chipz, who brought humour and light-heartedness to the evening. Upon meeting me, Baga took one look at the presidential medallion and assumed I was the Mayor of Birmingham. Despite my best efforts to explain otherwise, she continued to refer to me as the “Mayaar” all evening – and in the end, I gave up trying to correct her!
Ahead of the event, a few people asked, “Are you
really inviting a drag performer to a legal dinner?”
The answer was simple: yes, absolutely.
This dinner was about doing things differently. Throughout my year as President, I’ve spoken often about embracing change – and the laughter, energy, and sense of connection in the room that evening proved why that matters.
Our Society thrives because of its diversity – of people, perspectives, and experience. If there’s one message I hope to leave behind, it’s this: tradition and progress are not mutually exclusive. We can evolve, include, and innovate – while still celebrating everything that makes our community exceptional.
If you missed the Alternative Dinner, don’t worry – the President’s Dinner will take place at the Grand Hotel on 18th September 2025 , and I promise, you can expect the unexpected. This won’t be a night to celebrate me – it will be a night to celebrate you: our incredible members, colleagues, and the wider legal community. This year, we’re actively encouraging you to bring your partners, friends, and family. Show them what you really do, and let’s celebrate together.
Looking further ahead, this September we will hold our Annual General Meeting , and there will be vacancies for Board and Council positions. For those who want to take a more active role in shaping the Society’s future, there will also be an opportunity to apply for the role of Deputy Vice-President – one of the three Officer roles at the heart of our governance structure.
Taking on a formal role within Birmingham Law Society is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the largest regional law society in the UK, and to collaborate with likeminded professionals committed to driving the sector forward. If you have a strong vision for the future of the legal profession in the West Midlands, we would love to hear from you.
Further details will be shared in the next bulletin, but in the meantime, if you’re interested in any of these roles – or would simply like to find out more – please do get in touch with either myself or our Chief Executive, Nigel Hollett nigelhollett@birminghamlawsociety.co.uk.
Once again, I want to give a heartfelt thank you to our fantastic office team – Jess, Shona, and Ashlee – for their hard work and support, and to our CEO, Nigel Hollett.
And finally, a sincere thank you to you – our brilliant members. Please continue the outstanding work you do every day. You are the reason this Society thrives.
Gold Sponsors
Join the Team!
This September, Birmingham Law Society will once again hold its Annual General Meeting and there will be vacancies for Board and Council.
For those who want to be more closely involved in the Society, there will also be an opportunity to apply to be our Deputy Vice-President which is one of the three Officer positions that sit at the heart of our governance structure.
Having a formal role is a great opportunity to be part of the largest regional law society in the UK and to be able to network and work closely with a wide range of like-minded professionals. If you have a strong vision for what the legal sector in the West Midlands should look like and be involved in, then this is just the opportunity for you!
Further details will be provided next month but, in the meantime, if you are interested in any of the above roles or would like more information, please do get in touch with Chief Executive, Nigel Hollett nigelhollett@ birminghamlawsociety.co.uk or 07856 900 988.
Beyond Awareness: Real Impact with SheBeasts
Want your business to do more than just raise awareness?
Partnering with SheBeasts CIC means investing in staff wellbeing and real social change. Our programmes strengthen teams, boost morale, and deliver measurable impact.
What we offer:
Tailored wellbeing workshops
Employee volunteering opportunities Better team cohesion through shared purpose
Alignment with ESG and DEI goals
Research shows these initiatives improve satisfaction, retention, and community connection.
Let’s turn awareness into action.
Support us or learn more at: www.shebeastscic.co.uk
Supporting Male Victims Of Domestic Abuse
Thank you to everyone for your continuing support to us and She Beasts including those who supported us at the Alternative Dinner writes Mark Brooks OBE, Chair of Trustees.
The last few months have been busy for the charity and we continue to see more men call our helpline including those mired in the family courts alongside coercive control, economic abuse and physical violence.
We will also soon hear about a new Government “Violence Against Women and Girls” strategy which despite its name will also continue to include male victims of domestic abuse. In fact, we have had it confirmed that the Government’s commitment to halve ‘violence against women and girls’ crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual violence – includes men and boys too, who are victims of these crimes.
The latest Government figures show that, one in three victims of domestic abuse are male and that one in seven men will be a victim in their lifetime. This equates to 720,000 men every year with two thirds of these being victims at the hand of partners or ex-partners. So the target will be to halve these figures.
In the West Midlands, figures from the police state that 14,000 men report to them annually as victims of domestic abuse. It shows the scale of domestic abuse that impacts men –young men, old men, disabled men, gay men and men from all ethnic backgrounds.
Over two decades ago they had nowhere to turn until the ManKind Initiative charity was founded by a number of men and women in Somerset – the men had been victims themselves and the women had brothers and sons who had been affected. The charity then set up a helpline, website and sought to ensure there was domestic abuse support for men and their children in every town, city and county.
Whilst these have now been achieved, the challenges continue. We hear this every day from the
2,000 men who call us anonymously every year, from the emails we receive and the challenges we see from a society that does not always take men seriously. Research published a few years ago showed that local magistrates felt that male victims of domestic abuse could bear more harm than women - even when the situation was the same. That is why our work remains as important today as it did in 2001.
Our charity’s helpline and website which receives over 200,000 visitors every year and includes an online directory of support, is funded solely through donations and fundraising. We have a popular legal page which also lists the details of solicitors who have said they want men to be aware they support them: https:// mankind.org.uk/help-for-victims/ legal-support/.
All funds, including those kindly provided by members of the Birmingham Law Society, are ringfenced. This also provides the charity with the time and headspace to ensure the voices of male victims are heard with police and crime commissioners, mayors, police forces, the legal community and the CPS.
With the latter, we have ensured that all CPS policies include male victims and we continually work with them regionally and at a national level. We are meeting the national CPS later this year to discuss how they better support male victims.
The support from members of the Birmingham Law Society will help us continue to save the lives of men that call us. We listen to them, provide information and signpost them to the police, local support and of course, the legal community. Our popular law pages signpost men to those who have said they will support them. If you wish to be included, please do contact training@mankind.org.uk and please do email us if you require any training or information.
From all of us at the ManKind Initiative, and more importantly, from all those we help – thank you for your support of the coming year. It really will make a difference.
Events
MEMBER’S EVENTS
Stronger Together: A Trilogy of Support & Success in partnership with Mandy Rees
3rd June, 12pm – 2pm, Revolución de Cuba, £25 +VAT for members | £30 +VAT for non-members
Social Mobility Conference sponsored by Squire Patton Boggs 10th June, 8.30am – 12.30pm, Squire Patton Boggs, FREE for all to attend
How to Become a Qualified Paralegal in Just 13 Months in partnership with Datalaw 11th June, 1pm – 1.45pm, Online FREE for all to attend
Insights from an ex-regulator: The SRA’s AML inspection regime in partnership with Amiqus, 12th June, 11am – 12pm, Online FREE for all to attend
Networking Social sponsored by No5 Barristers’ Chambers 17th June, 6pm – 8pm, No5 Barristers’ Chambers, FREE for members | £10 +VAT for nonmembers
Birmingham Law Society COLP/ COFA Forum kindly hosted by Trowers & Hamlins LLP 24th June, 8.15am – 9.45am, Trowers & Hamlins LLP, FREE for those serving as COLP; COFA; MLRO; MLCO; and those working in risk and compliance teams and/or management
Employment Rights Bill Discussion: What are the implications? sponsored by No5 Barristers’ Chambers
26th June, 5pm – 8pm, No5 Barristers’ Chambers, FREE for all to attend
Cultural Heritage Dinner sponsored by Anthony Collins Solicitors, Higgs LLP and Mills & Reeve, 28th June, 12pm – 3pm, Tipu Sultan Majestic Dining, £30 +VAT per ticket
Helping Your Teams ThriveWorkplace Happiness Roundtable in partnership with The Happy Business School and sponsored by 3PB Barristers
1st July, 12pm – 1.30pm, 3PB Barristers, FREE for members only
Summer Networking Social 17th July, 6pm – 8pm, The Distillery £25 +VAT for members | £35 +VAT for non-members
To reserve your place and find out more, make sure that you visit www.birminghamlawsociety.co.uk
BLS x BSG - F1® Arcade Networking Event
Joint V Liverpool
BLS Quiz
In-House Lawyers Networking Social - credit Josh Rana Photography
Birmingham Pride
VWV Welcomes Six Newly Qualified Solicitors
VWV has bolstered its legal teams with the qualification of six new solicitors this March. Based across the firm’s Bristol, London, and Watford offices, the new solicitors will support key areas including property litigation, commercial property, corporate, employment, compliance, and personal injury.
The newly qualified solicitors – Ziandra Holland, Lauren Roffe, Megan
Armstrong, Eleanor Taylor, Sydney Holt, and Nicola Hardwick – have completed their training contracts with VWV. Their qualification highlights the firm’s dedication to nurturing legal talent and delivering exceptional client service.
Laura Chesham, VWV’s Training Principal, said: “Congratulations to all of our NQs. They have worked exceptionally hard and shown
Firm Names Charities For 2025
Midlands law firm
Sydney Mitchell has selected Marie Curie Solihull and Solihull Carers Trust as its 2025 charities of the year. Both will benefit from a year-long programme of fundraising events across the firm’s Birmingham, Solihull, and Sheldon offices.
Highlights include the Sydney Mitchell Charity Ball on 10 October at the British Motor Cycle Museum, alongside quizzes, dress-down days, coffee mornings, and cake sales. Funds raised will support vital local services.
Marie Curie Solihull, based at Marsh Lane Hospice, provides free specialist care for people with terminal illnesses such as advanced cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and motor neurone disease. Solihull Carers Trust offers vital help for carers supporting loved ones with dementia, disabilities, or long-term conditions. The firm has supported the charity for several years.
Karen Moores, senior partner at Sydney Mitchell, said: “Marie Curie Solihull and Solihull Carer’s Trust are incredible charities. We’re honoured to support them. The Charity Ball will be a highlight, featuring live music, casino tables, and magic. We aim to raise significant funds and awareness.”
For Charity Ball tickets, contact Angela Howard at a.howard@sydneymitchell.co.uk
consistent commitment to VWV and its values. We’re proud of our training programme and high retention rates, which reflect our culture, client relationships, and quality of work. We look forward to seeing our NQs thrive and contribute to VWV’s continued success.”
Newly qualified solicitor Eleanor Taylor, now in the Employment team, shared: “I am thrilled to have qualified and to be joining such a dynamic and supportive team. VWV has offered me the chance to work on highprofile cases, support clients in diverse sectors, and refine my skills with guidance from approachable senior colleagues.”
VWV also continues to invest in future lawyers. This month, Joshua Spanswick joined the trainee programme, having progressed from a paralegal role. The firm’s structured training contract provides hands-on experience in four different practice areas, laying a solid foundation for legal careers.
Learn more about careers at VWV: www.vwv.co.uk/careers
Davisons Law Marks 10 Years in Solihull with Major Office Move
Davisons Law has opened a new office in Solihull, marking a major milestone as the firm celebrates its tenth anniversary in the town. The relocation to a fully refurbished, three-storey building at Westbury House on Warwick Road significantly expands the firm’s footprint in the town’s professional quarter.
Completed in March 2025, the new office triples the firm’s previous capacity and features multiple meeting spaces to meet increasing demand for in-person consultations. The expansion supports ambitious growth plans, including the recruitment of over 100 new staff over the next three years, in line with local developments such as the Mell Square regeneration and 1,600 new homes planned for the area.
The move underscores the firm’s long-term commitment to the area, highlighted by its launch of the Solihull Business Club in partnership with Solihull Moors FC and ongoing sponsorship of the football club.
The office opening follows Davisons’ broader strategic growth, including a recent expansion into Wales through the acquisition of David Prosser Solicitors in Bridgend and the relocation of its Four Oaks office in Sutton Coldfield.
Partial funding for level 7 apprenticeship welcome, but limits legal sector growth
The Law Society of England and Wales welcomes the government’s decision to partially fund level 7 apprenticeships for young people aged 16-21, but believes more work is needed to provide further opportunities for those over 21 to qualify as solicitors.
Law Society president Richard Atkinson said: “The government’s decision to continue funding the level 7 apprenticeships for those aged 16-21 will encourage many young people to pursue a career in legal services. This benefits not just the legal sector, but also those young people that can’t afford university fees.
“We urge the government, however, to maintain apprenticeship funding for people over 21. Level 7 solicitor apprenticeships continue to be the only route outside of university to qualify as a solicitor due to specific qualifications set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Apprenticeships play a vital role in promoting social mobility. We also hope to see these apprenticeships brought over to Wales, to allow young people the same valuable opportunities.
“In 2023-24 more than 1,300 people started solicitor apprenticeships, 45% of which were between the ages of 20 and 24. Continuing to fund solicitor
Trowers collaborates with
Let’s Feed Brum
Trowers & Hamlins has partnered with volunteer-led charity Let’s Feed Brum to support Birmingham’s homeless community.
Let’s Feed Brum, the nominated charity of Trowers’ Birmingham office, provides essentials and support to those at risk of or experiencing homelessness through evening walkabouts, a chatline, events, and weekly breakfast clubs.
In their first year of partnership, 42 Trowers team members volunteered at seven breakfast clubs, helping over 1,000 people with hot food, drinks, toiletries, and other vital resources. The team also organised fundraising events including bake sales and “Trowers’ Wimbledon 2024,” donated clothes and toiletries, and joined evening outreach.
Following a successful year, Let’s Feed Brum has again been selected as the Birmingham office’s chosen charity.
Paul Scott, Construction Disputes Partner and Social Impact Lead, said: “In light of Mental Health Week and the
theme of Community, several Trowers volunteers have shared the positive impacts they’ve experienced and witnessed. We are so pleased to be partnering with Let’s Feed Brum for the second successive year.
At Trowers, we are passionate about having a local presence and driving positive change in Birmingham. Our social impact work is part of our UK-wide strategy, and everyone is encouraged to complete 25 hours of social responsibility work annually. It’s an opportunity to support local charities and make a real difference. We look forward to continuing our support of Let’s Feed Brum’s mission to help those in need and to find secure housing.”
Alan Strang, Chair of Let’s Feed Brum, added: “We are grateful for the energy, kindness and time given to support Let’s Feed Brum by the team at Trowers & Hamlins. As a volunteerrun charity, we couldn’t support Birmingham’s homeless communities without the generosity of those who call this city home.
apprenticeships after the age of 21 is critical if we are to support recruitment within the legal profession.
“Targeted recruitment is particularly needed in smaller regional areas. Offering apprenticeships in these areas encourage young people to look for opportunities locally, knowing they do not have to move to bigger cities to work in law. We hope the government supports the funding of solicitor apprenticeships past the age of 21 and demonstrates its commitment to the legal sector, a proven driver of growth in England and Wales.”
Two New Senior Practitioners For Firm
Rayden Solicitors, a Birmingham-based specialist family law firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dal Heran as Partner and the return of Harry White as Senior Associate.
Founded in 2005 by Senior Partner Katherine Rayden, the firm is now the UK’s second largest specialist Family Law firm, with offices across the home counties, London, and Birmingham. The team is recognised in Chambers & Partners and Legal 500.
Dal Heran is a highly regarded Family Lawyer with particular expertise in divorce cases involving agriculture, rural assets, and the Asian community. She speaks Punjabi and understands cultural sensitivities in family disputes.
Harry White, a former team member, returns with extensive experience representing mid to high net worth clients and handling complex private children law cases involving domestic abuse, guardians, parental alienation, and highconflict disputes.
Senior Partner Katherine Rayden said, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Dal to our Birmingham office, and also to welcome back Harry to the business. Both are exceptionally skilled family lawyers and their recruitment is testament to Rayden Solicitors’ reputation and ability to attract top-flight talent.”
A Tribute to Betty Webb
Betty Webb, who has died aged 101, was recruited by the Birmingham Law Society as its first Administrator in which role she served from 1970 until she took retirement in 1986. She was responsible for the smooth running of the Society including what was one of the largest independent law libraries in the country. She was responsible for supporting Council and its officers and guiding Presidents through their year in office. She soon became part of the fabric of the Society to the point where one President wryly observed, “Betty is better known than any of us.”
Betty always spoke fondly of her time with the Society and the Presidents she served could be confident that everything was in good order which, no doubt, was in no small part due to her military background. She told the story of how on one occasion the most senior judge in the country was attending as the guest speaker at a BLS dinner. Ever vigilant, she whispered in the President’s ear, “Don’t look now but he’s wearing odd shoes.” A BLS President would never have been allowed out on her watch, ill shod!
Betty spoke fluent German and had experienced life in Nazi Germany for a brief period before WWII. Wishing to assist in the war effort she joined the ATS in 1941. She attended an interview in London for a clerking job without any real idea as to what might be involved. Unsurprisingly, she impressed her interviewer. After a brief induction, she was asked to sign the Official Secrets Act and given a rail pass to Bletchley. She immediately joined the codebreaking team at Bletchley Park where her language skills were used to transcribe and paraphrase intercepted messages, latterly from the Japanese. She continued until VE day after which she, alone, was transferred to The Pentagon in a Sunderland flying boat to continue her work until VJ day. After a spell
in civilian life, Betty rejoined the ATS achieving the rank of Captain.
The pressures at Bletchley Park must have been enormous, but she enjoyed her time there, not least, when they were able to visit London for an evening! Absolute secrecy lay at the success of the Bletchley Park operation. Betty told no one about her work for many years: her parents never knew nor did BLS at the time of her appointment. Betty told the story of one morning in 1975 when she was walking to the offices in Temple Street, she bumped into someone who had also worked at Bletchley Park who inquired, “Have you heard? We’ve been released from the Official Secrets Act?” It still took a long time after this encounter before she felt able to speak out.
After retirement, Betty devoted much of her time to giving talks about her time at Bletchley Park, mostly to schools, and generally raising awareness to the world at large of the vital work carried out there. It seemed scarcely a week went by without her appearing on the radio or television. She also published two books which shed light on the vital contribution women played in the success of the operation.
I became reacquainted with Betty in the run up to our bicentenary in 2018. She was still in touch with some of her staff and at least one of her Presidents. With her razor-sharp recollection of events and with countless photographs and meticulously retained documents she became an invaluable resource in the preparation of our Bicentennial Book. She gave a talk to members in what had been the old library in the Temple Street premises and attended the Presidential bicentennial dinner as a guest of honour.
It is no exaggeration to say that even today the strength of BLS is in no small way down the foundations laid down in Betty’s time. She has left an enduring legacy for which we should all be grateful. In 2015 Betty was awarded an MBE for her services to remember and promote the work of Bletchley Park and in 2021 was awarded France’s highest military honour, as Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur for her part in the liberation of France. She was invited to King Charles’ coronation and was clearly visible sitting next to the aisle dressed in a bright red suit. There was no missing her! Her 100th birthday was celebrated in the Mansion at Bletchley Park which included a flyover of an Avro Lancaster bomber.
Betty (Charlotte Elizabeth) Webb.
Born 13 May 1923. Died 31 March 2025
Words by Peter Wiseman
Representing Birmingham Law Society at the funeral of Betty Webb – to the left of the standard bearers Peter Wiseman BLS Honorary Life Member and Jayne Willetts BLS
A Fantastic Pride and a New Vice Chair for LGBTQ Sub Committee
The LGBTQ+ sub-committee would like to thank everyone who joined them for their Birmingham Pride brunch on Saturday 24 May at No5 Chambers, followed by the parade and street party celebrations.
Special thanks to No5 for hosting a brilliant brunch and setting the tone for a memorable day, and to sponsors mfg for their support. Huge thanks also go to committee chair Marc Forrest-Thomas for his work in organising such a fantastic event.
Marc said: “I was overwhelmed by the support from the Legal community at Birmingham Pride 2025. It was a privilege to host a preparade brunch at No5 Chambers, setting the tone for the rest of the day, with record numbers in attendance.
Thank you to everyone that was able to join us. It is incredibly heartening that, in the face of ongoing international strains facing DE&I initiatives, so many people showed their pride. I’d like to extend an extra special thank you to my fellow committee members for all the work behind the scenes to ensure the day was a success. Never forget that
we are strongest when united, as evidenced this weekend!”
Newly elected Vice-Chair Lucy Williams said: “There was no shortage of rainbows, as we took to the streets with fans, flags and whistles. The sun wasn’t shining – but we didn’t need it. Everyone was glowing! Birmingham was out in force to celebrate – a beautiful showcase of authenticity from people of all walks of life. This truly was more important than ever this year, and it was heartwarming to see crowds filling the streets to spread joy and awareness, not hate.”
Marc added: “I am absolutely delighted that Lucy has been elevated into this position. She has always been a huge asset to the committee and I have no doubt she’ll help us reach new heights.”
Lucy said: “I’m proud to have been appointed Vice-Chair and look forward to working with Marc and our amazing team. We have big plans for 2025/26 to continue raising awareness across the profession and the city, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
A Tribute to Veronica Dean
Tributes have flowed in for Employment Judge Veronica Dean after her untimely death at the age of 65. Veronica began her career at Philips & Buck in Cardiff (now Eversheds) and was admitted as a solicitor in 1984. She then moved to Edge & Ellison (now Squire Patton Boggs) in the Birmingham office in 1986 and was made a partner in the Employment team. Although based in the Birmingham office, she was also a major contributor to the success of the Edge & Ellison London office.
She moved to Averta Employment Lawyers in 2005 as a Consultant to coincide with the start of her judicial career as a part time fee paid Employment Tribunal Judge. She sat in Shrewsbury, Telford and Wolverhampton before becoming a full time Employment Judge in 2009 sitting in Birmingham.
Birmingham Law Society also benefited from Veronica’s expertise as she served as a Council member, Chair of the PR/Media Committee, Editor of the Birmingham Law Society Bulletin and on the Employment Committee.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the 1990s, Veronica never let her illness hold her back. She was always generous with advice to those coping with illness. Her kindness knew no bounds as she was also a volunteer for many years with the Samaritans.
Jennifer Jones, West Midlands Regional Employment Judge: “Veronica was an Employment Judge for 21
years of her career, the last 16 years of which were spent as a full-time Employment Judge in Birmingham. She was a hard-working and clever judge and a funny, kind and supportive colleague who will be missed very much by her fellow judges and the Tribunal staff.”
Sophie Garner, Employment Barrister, St Philips Chambers: “Personally, I always enjoyed being in front of Veronica, in particular because of her little acerbic observations (sometimes about me!) and her underlying good humour and sharp mind. Replacing her with someone of those same qualities will, I fear, be impossible.”
James Retallack, former Senior Partner & Head of Employment, Edge & Ellison: “I’m sure that you will say that she was a specialist employment lawyer before we even knew such people existed! A fierce intellect which led to her long and successful career in private practice and, after that, as an Employment Judge. Given her long illness and physical challenges, her achievements were even more noteworthy.”
Ramez Moussa, Partner & Head of Employment, Squire Patton Boggs Birmingham: “Such sad news. She was my supervisor when I was first a trainee in the team in 2000. Her desk was always messy but she had a real super brain and taught me so much. Latterly she was a judge in the Employment Tribunal and we were in front of her about 12 months ago in fact.”
Jayne Willetts, Solicitor Advocate: “We began as professional colleagues at Edge & Ellison in 1988 and soon became close personal friends which we were for the next 37 years. Edge & Ellison was ahead of its time and we were fortunate to have a close-knit group of 7 lady partners in those early days. It has to be said that we gave our male partners a run for their money. Veronica was a force to be reckoned with, did not suffer fools gladly and yet was still full of compassion and empathy towards others. She was the kindest of us all and we will miss her.”
Key Promotions at Anthony Collins
Social purpose law firm Anthony Collins has announced 13 promotions and three internal career moves across both legal and business support teams, demonstrating its ongoing investment in staff development and professional growth.
Among the promotions are two new partners: Alex Tindall, from the property team, who advises national charities on property transactions, and Nicola Woods from the clinical negligence and personal injury team, (both pictured) who becomes the firm’s first partner to be a chartered legal executive.
Six individuals have been appointed as legal directors. Jackie Morris in employment and pensions represents clients in employment tribunals, especially in health and social care. Victoria Fullilove, from clinical negligence and personal injury, is recognised for managing complex, high-severity cases. Lindsey Bohanna and Narinder Singh, both in private client, specialise in estate planning and children law respectively. In the projects team, Alex Lawrence supports local authorities with contracts and governance, while Max Howarth focuses on planning and highways law.
Jack Hewitt and Jodie Wilding, both property specialists, have been promoted to associate level. Their work includes advising on social housing, site sales, and residential property matters for third-sector organisations.
Additionally, three promotions were made within the firm’s business support areas—HR, marketing and IT— alongside three lateral moves.
The Evolving Role of In-House Counsel
Over a decade ago, leading a team of in-house lawyers at a top national law firm seemed unimaginable. Yet here we are writes Gurdeep Singh Plahe, In-House Legal Manager at Irwin Mitchell and Committee Member of Birmingham Law Society In-House Lawyers Committee
So, what’s next for in-house lawyers? Here are my 7 strategies for success:
1. Understand and Integrate Business Strategy: It’s simple - your legal advice must drive business strategy. Embrace and integrate business strategy into your team and legal operations. This fosters strategic thinking at all levels and ensures that your advice is practical and aligned with business goals.
2. Know Your Client and Collaborate: Invest time to understand your client’s business and partner with the relevant business areas, e.g. IT, Procurement, HR. This collaboration helps provide contextualised advice and practical mitigations to support strategic decision making.
3. Optimise Legal Operations with Data: Build an efficient legal operations model and collect data on different
work types and business areas. Use this data to gain insights, shape your operations and align your resources with strategic needs. Implement tools like playbooks, template contracts, process maps and technology for contract management and workflow automation to standardise and streamline processes.
4. Deliver Clear Actionable Advice: Avoid legalese! Your colleagues need clear, concise advice in plain English. Use headline summaries to make your advice easy to understand and actionable, enhancing the client experience.
5. Stay Engaged and Proactive: Regularly meet with key stakeholders to stay updated on business developments to build trusting relationships. Encourage your team to join project groups to proactively advise on legal issues and provide strategic input.
6. Horizon Scan: Know the upcoming legal and regulatory changes that will impact your client’s business. This will enhance strategic planning and decision making to ensure your client’s business remains compliant. This also helps build confidence amongst key stakeholders, showcasing your commitment to protecting your client.
7. Leadership: People are at the heart of any successful team – they’re an invaluable asset. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way. So, it’s ever more important to support and invest in them. Reflect on your leadership style and find ways to lead and manage your team most effectively, you undoubtedly see great results!
Final Thoughts: The role of In-House Counsel continues to evolve. The key to thriving in a dynamic environment like this is to continuously adapt, innovate and lead with a strategic mindset. Embrace these strategies, and you’ll not only enhance your legal team’s impact but also contribute to the broader success of your organisation.
Maquis Wine Dinner at Fazenda
Fazenda will present an exclusive Wine Dinner in collaboration with Maquis, one of Chile’s most esteemed family-owned wineries.
Taking place on 12th June at Fazenda Birmingham, the event promises a refined evening of food, wine and discovery. Guests will enjoy a carefully curated four-course menu paired with wines from the Maquis portfolio, known
for their elegance, expression, and deep roots in the Colchagua Valley. This special evening offers a unique opportunity to explore the flavours of South America in the sophisticated surroundings of Fazenda, with insights and storytelling from the people behind the wines.
Early booking is highly recommendedclick here to reserve you place.
Focus On: In-House as a Trainee Solicitor
Soffia Farmer, Trainee Solicitor at Islamic Relief Worldwide and Committee Member of Birmingham Law Society’s In-House Lawyers Committee talks about her role as an In House Traineee Solicitor.
Where do you work? I work for Islamic Relief Worldwide which is headquartered in Digbeth, Birmingham. Established in 1984, the charity organisation now operates in over 45 countries and has saved and transformed the lives of more than 120 million people. We deliver lifesaving emergency aid and essential services, including healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene - regardless of race, religion or gender.
We also focus on projects that work towards poverty alleviation, climate action, gender justice, and forced displacement. We are one of only 5 UK-based charities to have been certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard which is a globally recognised, measurable standard that sets out nine commitments that organisations need to meet. These are that people affected by crisis:
1. Can exercise rights and participate in decisions
2. Access timely and effective support
3. Are better prepared and more resilient
4. Access support that does not harm people/environment
5. Can safely report concerns and complaints
6. Access coordinated and complementary support
7. Access support adapted based on feedback
8. Interact with respectful, competent and well-managed staff
9. Can expect ethical and responsible management of resources.
We are also a member of the Disasters Emergency Committee, which brings together 15 leading aid charities to raise funds quickly at the times of crisis for example floods, earthquakes and more. Each year we continue to grow, and we are expanding our reach to support even more people worldwide.
What is your role? I am a trainee solicitor who sits within the legal department. I am currently undertaking the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route to qualify as a solicitor. As part of this pathway, I am completing my qualifying work experience (QWE) at Islamic Relief while studying for my graduate solicitor apprenticeship at BPP University. The SQE route requires two years of qualifying work experience and the successful completion of both SQE1 and SQE2 exams. I aim to qualify as a solicitor in 2026.
What kind of work do you do? Working in-house rather than in private practice allows me to engage in a broad variety of legal work. I am exposed to various areas of law and regulation, particularly those relevant in the charity sector and set by the Charity Commission. As a registered charity, we must comply with numerous legal and regulatory requirements, including but not limited to the Charities Act 2011, Charities Act 2022, Trustees Act 2000, and the Code of Fundraising Practice.
The responsibilities of registered charities to comply with the rules and regulations are extensive, and non-compliance can have serious consequences. The legal department’s role therefore is to ensure compliance, manage risks and also to provide legal guidance to the organisation.
The type of work I do includes contract review, covering a range of commercial agreements such as sponsorship agreements, partnership agreements, and supplier agreements.
I also handle property related matters, data protection compliance, notarisation and legalisation of documents, as well as general legal queries from within the organisation. Additionally, I provide support to the legal counsels and the general counsel.
What tips do you have for paralegals, trainees or apprentices working inhouse? My biggest advice for those who are new to the legal profession is to put yourself out there and take advantage of every learning
opportunity. Here are my key tips:
● Volunteer to help legal counsels with various tasks – no matter how small. This will help broaden your knowledge across different areas of law as well as helping you come across as enthusiastic and willing to learn.
● Create a LinkedIn account and start connecting with other legal professionals, this will help you build a network of like-minded individuals.
● Get involved with different networking groups such as Birmingham Law Society, Birmingham Solicitors Group, Birmingham Trainee Solicitors Society, etc. I have made many friends by attending these events that I wouldn’t have made without putting myself out there. I know it can be nerve-wracking to attend these events, especially if you go alone (like I did), but everyone is in the same boat and super friendly.
● Ask to sit in on meetings with legal counsel. By doing this, you will observe the type of questions they ask, their interaction with clients, and the legal advice that they provide.
● Put yourself forward when it comes to opportunities. There have been many times I have volunteered to do presentations and this really helps to build confidence – I truly think that your growth and progress comes from stepping outside your comfort zone!
● Take advantage of working inhouse, as you will be exposed to a wide range of legal areas. By being pro-active and getting involved in different projects you can get a clearer understanding of where your strengths lie and what you enjoy.
● Keep a diary of the different tasks that you conduct so that you can reflect on how far you have come on your journey. This will also help if you are doing the SQE route as you can use it to contribute towards your QWE evidence.
● If, like me, you are balancing the SQE and working at the same time, try to keep on top of your lectures and start your revision early. This will help avoid unnecessary stress during exam time. And throughout your journey, keep in mind your end goal of qualification – it will keep you motivated on even the toughest days!
BLS Awards 2025 Winner Interviews
Gurpreet Chaggar, Student of the Year
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? I would like to thank my family for always being supportive of my participation in extra-curricular
activities and my colleagues on the Birmingham Solicitors’ Group Committee for creating a platform that has allowed me to develop both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law? My only advice to those wishing to pursue a career in law is to be yourself. As helpful as it is to have role models or people in the profession that you look up to, what will set you apart is allowing your own personality to shine through. Don’t be afraid to “go against the grain” or do things that make you uncomfortable. That’s usually when the best opportunities for growth arise.
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better? In light of recent events, I think that lawyers and firms should do more to ensure that “EDI” is not just a tick box exercise. I
Tabatha Butler, Paralegal of the Year
How have you celebrated your win? I had a wonderful evening at the Law Society Awards, celebrating alongside the other winners, nominees, and my colleagues from Weightmans. It was such a special moment to stop and soak up the atmosphere and reflect on this achievement. Of course, the celebrations wouldn’t have been complete without enjoying a few glasses of bubbly!
Is there anyone that you would like to thank who has been instrumental in your success? First and foremost, I would like to start by thanking Weightmans for nominating me
for this award. Since joining the firm, Weightmans have always encouraged me to seize every opportunity and have empowered me to challenge myself and be my best. I feel very fortunate to be at a firm that truly celebrates success. A huge thank you also goes to my team, Local Government 2, for their unwavering support. Finally, I would like to thank my friends and family - I really couldn’t have achieved this without them.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform? I would love to take this opportunity to elevate Birmingham Solicitor’s Group. Not only are their events always a good time, but they have been a great way to meet other junior lawyers and build my network across Birmingham. It has been especially valuable connecting with individuals in different areas of law and at various stages in their career, which has been so encouraging and insightful as I progress on my own legal journey. I would encourage everyone to check out their upcoming events.
What advice would you give to those wanting to see a career in law?
My advice to anyone seeking a career in law is to have confidence and believe in your potential, even when things feel uncertain or out of reach. The process of applying for jobs and training contracts can be challenging, but it is important
think that fairer access to those from lower socio-economic backgrounds (such as myself) is a necessity.
Is there any topics, groups, individuals who you wish to elevate, promote, shout about using this platform?
Birmingham Solicitors’ Group (BSG) has been instrumental in my development on both a personal and professional level. Since joining the Committee during the Final Year of my Undergraduate Degree, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside Solicitors, Barristers, Trainees and Paralegals, as well as being able to attend events and network with junior professionals from across Birmingham and the Midlands. I would highly recommend that any young or aspiring professionals engage with the BSG and take advantage of any and all opportunities that arise by putting yourself out there!
to remember there is no one ‘right’ path into law. Everybody’s journey is different so focus on your own path, stay curious, and take every opportunity you can. Every step forward counts, no matter how small.
What one thing do you think lawyers need to do to be better?
The legal profession has made great progress in its commitment to corporate social responsibility, but we could all go that little bit further. Whether it is through supporting community initiatives or getting involved in pro-bono projects, to encouraging sustainable business models and developing ethical business practices, everyone, at all levels, can actively drive change and create a lasting positive impact both within, and beyond, the legal sector.
If you could create one new law, what would it be? I would create a law which requires all employers to provide a set number of paid mental health days each year. This would encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing without fear of judgement or financial loss. It would also help to promote a healthier and more supportive workplace, by breaking the stigma and normalising conversations around mental health.
Creating pathways into law: latest Vacation Scheme welcomes future talent
Once again Birmingham Law Society, Higgs LLP and Browne Jacobson have partnered to deliver another successful Vacation Scheme. The scheme aims to support aspiring lawyers from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds and gives attendees the opportunity to gain insights into the profession, build their networks and develop valuable skills.
The initiative forms part of Birmingham Law Society’s wider commitment to driving inclusion and improving access to legal careers across the region.
The programme consists of a series of online pre-recorded skills-focused video sessions for students to watch in their own time, culminating in an opportunity for students to meet one another and network at an in-person session in Birmingham. Ultimately, the scheme gives participants the chance to experience life at a law firm and take important next steps on their journey into the profession. It also aims to break down any perceived socio-economic barriers into the legal profession.
Feedback from attendees at the in-person session held in April this year has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant commented: “I loved that it was so inclusive. I was nervous about going since this was my first event, but it couldn’t have gone better. There was so much valuable advice and a lot of useful information.”
Another attendee added: “The organisation was superb. Each presentation flowed seamlessly into the group task. I felt welcome at the reception downstairs.”
We are incredibly grateful to our partner firms, Higgs LLP and Browne Jacobson for sharing our commitment to providing opportunity and facilitating inclusivity, and for opening their doors to the next generation of legal talent.
Sophie Wardell, People Director at Higgs LLP, commented: “The participants brought real drive, authenticity and a clear sense of purpose to their time at Higgs. We talked openly with participants about the non-linear routes into law, not only to highlight the opportunities open to them, but also to understand what they thought their challenges were. We highlighted the importance of creating space for different voices and journeys. It was a privilege to be involved.”
Tom Lyas, Head of Resourcing & Social Mobility at Browne Jacobson, added, “We were delighted to be part of this important initiative once again. Working collaboratively with Birmingham Law Society and Higgs LLP to support emerging talent has been hugely rewarding and reflects our shared belief in a more open and inclusive profession. We’re very much looking forward to supporting the next Vacation Scheme and meeting more enthusiastic, ambitious individuals.”
Alice Kinder, Chair of the BLS Social Mobility sub-committee, stated, “We first launched this scheme during my Presidential year. Now in it’s second year running, it’s fantastic to see the eagerness of students to participate. I can’t wait to see what next year brings!”
Focus On: Access to Justice Foundation
Every year across the UK, millions of people will need legal advice, but many won’t get the support they need because they can’t afford it, or they don’t know where to turn. They’re families at risk of eviction and homelessness, grown children fighting to get care for a loved one, or workers challenging discrimination from an employer.
The Access to Justice Foundation is the only funder dedicated to increasing free legal support, advice and representation across the UK. Our focus is on reaching communities where people are less likely to know about or to be able to access legal help.
We support organisations like Spitfire Advice and Narthex Sparkhill in Birmingham to better understand the needs of their communities, build effective advice infrastructures, and reach those who are most disadvantaged.
We work with the legal profession in a number of ways to raise funds.
• Lawyers acting pro bono can maximise the impact of their work in many cases by obtaining a Pro Bono Costs Order. As the prescribed recipient of Pro Bono Costs Orders under s.194 of the Legal Services Act 2007 we use these funds to ensure pro bono advice is supported across the UK.
• Law firms can trust us to use residual client balances for the greater good. We provide indemnities to ensure
that unclaimed funds meet compliance standards and can be used to make a lasting difference.
• Every year legal communities across the UK come together to raise thousands through Legal Walks in their local town or city.
• We welcome donations from companies and individuals who want to fund access to justice.
These funds are transformational.
They allow us to support specialist organisations like the Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services, who helped Fiona* obtain a non-molestation order, make a Sanctuary scheme referral and begin processing a divorce after living with an abusive partner for 15 years. These interventions meant that Fiona felt informed and empowered in her choices. She was able to safeguard her children and vastly improve her mental and physical wellbeing.
This is just one example of the impact free legal advice can have - but we need your help to ensure more people like Fiona can access support when they need it most.
• If you’re a solicitor or barrister conducting pro bono work, consider applying for a Pro Bono Costs Order as part of your litigation strategy. This can level the playing field for clients while unlocking a vital source of funding for frontline legal services.
• If you’re at a law firm, speak with your compliance or finance team about donating your residual client balances to us.
• And if you’re based in Birmingham, we’d love your support at the Birmingham Legal Walk on the 5th of June - a fantastic way to bring the legal community together and raise funds for vital services. For more information on attending or donating, please contact info@sikhsinlaw.co.uk.
For more information, resources, or to get involved, visit https://atjf.org.uk/ or get in touch with our Development Director, bhavinibhatt@atjf.org.uk , to explore how we can work together.
Invitation to Participate in Two Research Studies
Survey on ‘Rough Sex’ Defence and Consent in Law
Molly Stanton LLB, a PhD candidate in Law at the University of the West of England, is seeking input from criminal solicitors, barristers, and police station reps practising or formerly practising in England and Wales.
Her research, ‘Rough Sex’ and Consent: An Examination of the Law on Consent and Safety, explores the increasing use of the “rough sex” defence, particularly in fatal offences against women. It questions the effectiveness and justification of s.71 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, its alignment with human rights, and its reflection of social realities.
Molly invites legal professionals to complete a short (5–10 minute) survey, open until 30 June 2025. Participation is welcome even without direct case experience. To particplate click here
Survey on Lawyers’ Science Literacy
Owen Yates is conducting a study on the science literacy of criminal lawyers in England and Wales.
With scientific evidence increasingly present in courtrooms, this project aims to understand how wellequipped legal professionals are to interpret it.
You are eligible to participate if you are a solicitor or barrister practising in England and Wales, hold higher rights of audience (if you are a solicitor), currently provide legal representation in criminal justice proceedings, have undertaken work that qualifies as legal aid, and are aged 18 or over.
The survey can be accessed by clicking here . Deadline to complete this survey is 31st July 2025
The Comeback Story: Returning to Law After a Decade Away
Liz Burley, co-leader of the Birmingham-based boutique firm Burley Law, was recently named Returner of the Year at the Women and Diversity in Law Awards — recognition for her inspiring return to law after a 10-year break to raise her young family.
“Returning to my legal career was very daunting after such a long time away, and it wasn’t something that I planned for,” says Liz. “Back in the early 2000s having a young family was not really compatible with working in a busy role as a solicitor in a large law firm. Sadly, when I returned to work part-time after maternity leave, I was faced with changes to my role and line management, which made things difficult for me and it quickly became apparent that I would have to battle very hard to develop my career. That wasn’t a choice I was prepared to make over my family, so I walked away with no plan to go back.”
Although it was the right decision, Liz acknowledges the personal and financial toll. She and her husband Des, also a solicitor, lost half their household income. “I was brought up to believe that my professional life and work were intrinsic to my sense of identity, my value to society and my self-esteem. The feeling that I had given up on all of this and let myself down has stayed with me long term.”
Her return came in 2015 when former
Sydney Mitchell Announce Senior Promotions
Midlands law firm Sydney Mitchell has announced several senior promotions, including new partners in its Private Client and Family teams.
Private Client specialist Lorna Payne and Family Law expert Gemma Whitchurch have been promoted to salaried partner, bringing the firm’s partnership to 16.
Gemma, recognised by Legal 500, has specialised in family law since 2008. She advises on financial remedy cases for both high net-worth and low-asset clients, as well as child arrangements, relocations, and domestic abuse.
Lorna, a trust, tax, and estate planning expert, joined as an associate in 2021 and became a senior associate in 2023. She advises high net-worth clients and is a member of STEP and
Charlotte Jones has been promoted to senior associate in the Private Client team. A Trust & Estates Practitioner, she joined in 2018 and advises on probate, estate administration, and Court of Protection matters.
Also promoted to senior associate is Kiran Athwal, head of the firm’s Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence department. Kiran handles high-value, complex injury cases involving chronic pain and brain injuries.
Senior Partner Karen Moores said: “Lorna, Gemma, Charlotte and Kiran have made significant contributions to the firm’s growth and client service. These promotions reflect their value and commitment to our inclusive, supportive culture.”
colleagues invited her to rejoin their employment law practice. With their support and her family’s, Liz regained her confidence and skills, showing determination to succeed.
Today, she co-leads Burley Law with Des, advising on a wide range of employment law and HR matters and guiding the firm’s strategic direction.
Liz now uses her experience to support others returning to work. She’s been part of the TAG Network Birmingham Women in Leadership committee, mentors young female founders, and serves as an advisory board member for Refirement UK — helping redefine retirement and career for mature women. She is passionate about ensuring their contributions are recognised and valued.
The awards judges commended Liz for her openness, resilience, and commitment to mentoring and inclusion.
To contact Liz for speaking or mentoring email liz@burleylaw.co.uk
BLS REPRESENT AT BIRMINGHAM PRIDE
The Birmingham Law Professions were well represented at Birmingham Pride this year. Our Leader Harpreet Sandhu KC proudly flew the flag for the Midland Circuit. Harpreet, Rob, and I wore Midland Circuit T-shirts—available to any Barrister wanting to support Pride independently of Chambers writes Dee Smythe, Barrister and BLS Council Member.
For the first time, the Midland Circuit stood prominently alongside No5 Chambers and the Birmingham Law Society. Participation in the Pride legal walk continues to grow.
Special thanks to Marc Forrest-Thomas, Practice Director at No5 Chambers, and his team for organising the Pride breakfast—great food and drinks to energise the walkers. Thanks also to cosponsors MFG Solicitors.
During the walk, the crowds which lined the Pride route give the legal professions, loud cheers and the sound of clapping was resonant throughout the walk with a ripple effect (reverberate) along the route. After the walk, all the participants who had bought their Street Party tickets continued to celebrate and enjoyed dancing to music, late into the evening… Roll on next year-Bank Holiday Pride weekend 2026!
the STEP Birmingham Committee.
Landmark’s Guide to the Law Society’s Climate Change Risk Property Practice Note
Following the publication of the Law Society’s Climate Change Risk Property Practice Note , we spoke to two of its contributors, Simon Boyle, environmental lawyer, and Robert Lee, Professor of Law at the University of Birmingham, for their insights on what this means for conveyancers.
Landmark’s Sustainability Team has played a key role in shaping the Law Society’s Climate Change Risk Property Practice Note. Simon Boyle, and Special Advisor, Professor Robert Lee, contributed to the Practice Note and co-wrote the supplementary Technical Note.
After six drafts and 18 months of work, the Practice Note was published on 12 May. With conveyancers understandably concerned about scope creep, even before this new Law Society climate change guidance, we asked Simon and Robert about the practical implications of the Practice Note.
What are climate risks in the context of property transactions?
Prof. Robert Lee: There are three main types of climate risks in property transactions. Physical risks involve damage or harm to owned property due to climate change. Transition risks arise from changes made by governments and others on the journey to net zero. Legal risks occur when individuals or businesses face legal consequences stemming from physical and transitional risks.
What does the Law Society Practice Note advise in relation to ordering climate risk searches?
Simon Boyle: The Practice Note
takes a pragmatic view. It includes a useful checklist for property lawyers, outlining seven key steps. The first step relates to climate risk searches, suggesting that property lawyers may commission these searches.
During initial conversations with clients about property transactions, lawyers will now mention climate change risks. Step one in the checklist recommends saying to the client, “it might be useful to commission a climate search.” This is a top recommendation in the Practice Note.
Are conveyancers expected to advise on climate change risks?
Prof. Robert Lee: It’s not the lawyer’s job to advise on the technical risk or nature of those risks. However, clients will expect lawyers to identify legal implications and offer practical advice on mitigating legal risks or liabilities. Lawyers use technical information from legal searches and contextual knowledge from client instructions to assess legal consequences and advise accordingly.
How can conveyancers practically apply the new Law Society Practice Note on climate change?
Prof. Robert Lee: The Practice Note introduces changes and sets a standard for conveyancers. Law firms can take several steps to meet these requirements.
Firstly, training is essential. While conveyancers don’t need to be technical experts, they should be aware of available search products. Conveyancers should be able to discuss climate searches with clients, possibly scripting initial
conversations. Secondly, conveyancers should clearly define the extent of their instructions regarding climate change risk.
Standard wording can be developed to outline what conveyancers will and won’t do in relation to climate change risk. Additionally, conveyancers should consider how to address climaterelated issues in reports on title, reducing them to standard wording. Documentation is also crucial.
Conveyancers should document advice and assistance over time, adopting a defensive approach to protect themselves.
What if a conveyancer needs more information following a climate risk search?
Simon Boyle: Landmark has a helpline and an excellent customer services team to assist conveyancers. If conveyancers have questions or need clarification after ordering a climate risk search, Landmark’s customer services team can provide the necessary information.
Recognising that climate risk is a developing consideration in conveyancing, some questions may require input from Landmark’s 12-strong Sustainability Team. They can address any queries that arise, recognising that people may need to seek more information, especially as circumstances change over time.
Where can conveyancers access climate change training?
Landmark places great importance on providing climate change training materials. Landmark Academy , chaired by Robert Lee, offers numerous lectures on climate change. The Academy provides extensive information freely accessible to anyone seeking a deeper understanding.
In addition to online resources, Landmark offers face-to-face training for law firms. These sessions can be conducted via Teams or in person, allowing for direct interaction and discussions.
To find out more, listen to the full discussion by clicking here
Are you ready to help your firm transition into a better future?
As the UK’s leading provider of property insights and expertise, Landmark’s in-house sustainability consultants are not only driving net zero and supply chain due diligence in our business but are also helping property professionals achieve the same goals.
Where do you need to start?
• Helping your firm reduce GHG emissions and start their net zero journey?
• Advice on the impact of climate change for law firms and your clients?
• Support with supply chain due diligence?
Landmark Information empowers property professionals to navigate sustainability challenges, wherever they are on their journey.
My Eight-Year Journey with Birmingham Law Society: A Personal Reflection by James Farmer
Over the past eight years, I’ve had the privilege of serving the Birmingham Law Society in various capacities, witnessing its evolution and contributing to its mission during a transformative period for our profession. This journey has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career, allowing me to connect with remarkable colleagues and help shape our local legal landscape.
My Path Through Governance and Committees
My involvement began with a seat on the Council, where I quickly gained insight into the Society’s governance and the challenges facing our profession. Those early meetings revealed to me the vital role the Society plays as both guardian of our professional standards and advocate for Birmingham’s legal community on a local and national stage.
This initial role opened doors to more focused contributions, particularly when I took on the chairmanship of the Student Committee. This position became a passion project, allowing me to build bridges between legal education and practice while helping nurture the next generation of Midlands lawyers. We established mentoring programs, careers workshops, and networking events that created meaningful pathways into the profession for talented students from diverse backgrounds.
Simultaneously, I served on the Membership Committee, working to ensure our Society remained relevant and valuable to members at all career stages. We faced the challenge of demonstrating continued relevance in a rapidly changing profession, working with the office to
develop benefits packages and engagement strategies that spoke to the evolving needs of modern practitioners. This work taught me the importance of an inclusive approach that addresses the diverse needs of our community, from newly qualified solicitors to established partners.
My appointment to the Board brought new responsibilities and a broader perspective on strategic leadership. Contributing to decisions about the Society’s direction, resources, and priorities deepened my appreciation for the delicate balance between honouring tradition and embracing necessary change.
A particularly significant contribution came through my role on the Governance Review Committee, where I helped modernise the Society’s operational framework to meet contemporary challenges. I was entrusted with drafting the Terms of Reference for Council, a foundational document that clarified roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes for the Society’s Council and its interrelationship with the Board. This work required careful consideration of both historical precedents and future needs, ensuring governance structures that would remain effective and adaptable.
I also had the honour of serving as Honorary Secretary for a couple of years, a position that brought both substantial responsibility and unique opportunities. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was representing Birmingham at the Joint V meetings—quarterly gatherings of the five largest law societies outside of London: Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Liverpool, and Manchester.
These collaborative sessions proved invaluable for sharing ideas, discussing common challenges, and developing coordinated responses to national issues affecting regional legal communities. The relationships built and insights gained through these inter-society connections strengthened not only my own perspective but also Birmingham Law Society’s approach to advocacy and member services.
Meanwhile, participating in the International Law Committee allowed me to help strengthen Birmingham’s connections to the global legal community, raising our city’s profile as a centre for legal excellence beyond national borders. From hosting international delegations during the Commonwealth Games year to building relationships internationally, this work positioned Birmingham as a forward-thinking legal hub with global ambitions.
Supporting Eight Remarkable Presidents
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been supporting eight consecutive Presidents, each bringing unique priorities and leadership styles to our Society.
I worked alongside Andrew Beedham on Council and Board as he focused on modernising our operations, implementing digital systems that revolutionised how we communicated with members and managed our extensive events calendar. With James Turner, I contributed to strengthening ties with regional businesses whilst sitting on Council which helped establish roundtable forums that brought together legal practitioners and commercial leaders to address shared challenges.
During Linden Thomas’s tenure, I supported her passionate access to justice initiatives through Council, which included expanding our pro bono coordination and advocating for sustainable legal aid funding. Inez Brown’s presidency
saw groundbreaking work on diversity and inclusion across our profession, and I was proud to support our first comprehensive equality framework and mentoring scheme for underrepresented groups.
With Stephanie Perraton, we enhanced professional development opportunities for our members, launching specialised training programs that addressed emerging practice areas and technological competencies. Alongside Tony McDaid as both Honorary Secretary and a member of Council, we contributed to strengthening our advocacy role with policymakers, participating in consultations and delegations that ensured Birmingham’s legal voice was heard in Westminster and beyond.
During Alice Kinder’s presidency as Honorary Secretary, Council member and a member of Board, we embraced her focus on wellbeing and sustainability in legal practice, helping establish our mental health support network and environmental responsibility charter. Most recently, Richard Port MBE has expanded our community engagement work, developing initiatives that demonstrate the profession’s commitment to social responsibility and public service.
Each presidency taught me different approaches to leadership and reinforced the value of institutional knowledge in translating vision into action. Being one of many connective threads between these administrations has been a privilege, allowing me to help maintain momentum across transitions while embracing fresh perspectives.
Beyond the Committee Rooms
While my committee work provided structure to my involvement, equally meaningful were the countless conversations, mentoring relationships, and community connections fostered outside official meetings. I’ve found immense satisfaction in representing the Society at conferences, law fairs and lectures, where sharing Birmingham’s innovations has helped elevate our region’s reputation for legal excellence.
Some of my most rewarding moments have come from speaking with law students considering their futures in Birmingham, or guiding newly qualified solicitors through their early career challenges. These less visible contributions have been personally fulfilling while strengthening our professional community’s cohesion.
The relationships built through Society events, from formal dinners to casual networking gatherings, have created a support network that transcends firm boundaries and practice specialties. I’ve learned that professional bodies thrive not merely through formal structures but through committed involvement from members who recognise that collective advancement benefits us all.
Navigating Professional Challenges
Throughout these eight years, our profession has faced significant challenges – regulatory changes, technological disruption, access to justice concerns, and most recently, the profound impact of a global pandemic. The Society provided a forum to collectively address these issues, developing responses that balanced competing interests while upholding our professional values.
My involvement during these turbulent times reinforced my belief in the power of collegial problem-solving and the importance of maintaining professional solidarity even
as our practice models diversify. The resilience shown by our members and the innovative solutions that emerged from our collaborative efforts give me confidence in the profession’s ability to thrive amid change.
My New Professional Chapter
February 2024 marked the conclusion of my tenure as CEO of Cornwall Street Barristers, closing a joyous and impactful chapter in my professional journey. Rather than simply moving to another established position, I’ve embraced a more entrepreneurial direction that reflects the evolving legal landscape.
My new consultancy venture (Gent Legal Services) allows me to provide management expertise to law firms and chambers navigating sector-wide changes. This work draws on perspectives gained from years of strategic leadership within professional organisations and practice management. The insights gleaned from my Birmingham Law Society involvement prove invaluable daily as I help practices address challenges from succession planning to technological integration.
Simultaneously, I’ve built on my achievement of obtaining my Law Degree and previous legal practice experience and trained in property law and estate planning, joining Elite Law Solicitors as a conveyancing fee earner with my wife as I work towards qualification. This balanced approach combines high-level strategic consultancy with practical legal work, reflecting the multifaceted career paths increasingly common in our profession. Reconnecting with direct client service has reinvigorated my appreciation for the fundamental purpose of our profession – providing practical solutions to people’s legal needs.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As I reflect on eight years with Birmingham Law Society, I’m grateful for the opportunities to contribute to our community and for the relationships formed along the way. My willingness to serve across multiple committees, support diverse presidential initiatives, and bridge different segments of our profession has enriched my professional life immeasurably.
The Society has been both a professional home and a vehicle for meaningful impact, allowing me to give back to a profession that has provided me with so much and which I will forever hold dear. As I embark on this new consultancy and practice venture, the perspectives gained through deep involvement with the Society continue to inform my approach to the challenges facing modern legal service providers.
For colleagues considering involvement with professional organisations, I can only encourage taking that first step. My journey demonstrates how sustained engagement can simultaneously contribute to our collective advancement while enhancing your own professional development and network.
In an era of unprecedented change for our profession, I remain committed to the collaborative spirit that makes Birmingham’s legal community so special. The future may bring new challenges, but the foundations of collegiality, excellence, and service that the Birmingham Law Society embodies will continue to guide us forward.
The Importance Of A Solicitor’s Words- A Review Of Undertakings
A recent SDT case has reminded us all of the importance of undertakings and the regard held to a solicitor’s words. In this short article we will explore that case and good practice when giving undertakings writes Rebecca Atkinson of McArthur Atkinson, a legal practice offering risk and compliance advisory services.
But I never said ‘undertaking’
Termed by Legal Futures as a ‘veteran solicitor’, Robin Stubbings was recently in hot water at the SDT who found it fit to fine him a whacking £17,500 and barred him from practicing as a sole practitioner for 18 months. What on earth did he do? Well, he breached an undertaking and failed to cooperate with the SRA (plus he had a little history). Let’s explore the factual background.
Mr Stubbings acted on the sale of a property which completed in October 2021. Before the purchaser could register their interest and their lender’s charge, a restriction on the register needed to be removed. Mr Stubbings delayed in responding to the purchaser’s solicitors and providing the required forms to remove the restriction. As a result, the purchaser’s application to register their interest and the lender’s charge was rejected by Land Registry.
Mr Stubbings provided the correct forms in January 2023 having sent across incorrect versions to the purchaser’s solicitor in March and November 2022. By this time, the Land Registry fees had increased and the purchaser’s solicitor had spent a lot of time and cost chasing Mr Stubbings.
Interestingly Mr Stubbings did not attend the SDT hearing but in correspondence with the SRA claimed that he did not ‘give an ‘undertaking’ as such’ because he did not use the word ‘undertaking’. That old chestnut!
The SDT found that Mr Stubbings had given various undertakings by agreeing to complete the
transaction via the completion code which included providing the documentation/forms needed by the end of the working day following completion. Also, the SDT found that Mr Stubbings had given ‘an unequivocal and categoric confirmation’ that the documentation would be provided.
Further the SDT held that the ‘fact that Mr Stubbings did not expressly use the word undertake or undertaking did not mean that he had not provided the same’.
Crickey- do solicitors out there think that if the word ‘undertaking’ is not used then an undertaking is not given? I would very much hope that Mr Stubbings is in the miniscule minority that thinks saying you will do something but not undertaking to, means you don’t have to follow through with what you say.
Ethically too, such behaviour brings the profession into disrepute and damages trust and confidence in the profession.
Mr Stubbings had history which explains the level of fine. He had previously been fined £15,000 by the SDT in 2019 for failing to complete probate matters promptly with one such matter taking a gasping 15 years and again failing to cooperate with the SRA. Mr Stubbings was also fined £2,000 in 2022 for not having AML controls in place having failed to comply with the SRA’s request to undertake a review of the same.
Undertakings
refresh
So given the above, let’s have a little refresh of undertakings.
The SRA Code of Conduct for Solicitors, RELs and RFLs, sets out at paragraph 1.3 that you perform all undertakings given by you, and do so within an agreed timescale or if no timescale has been agreed then within a reasonable amount of time.
This rule is also present in the SRA Code for Firms at paragraph 1.3. The term ‘undertaking’ in these rules is defined in the SRA glossary as a ‘statement, given orally or in writing, whether or not it includes the word “undertake” or
“undertaking”, to someone who reasonably places reliance on it, that you or a third party will do something or cause something to be done, or refrain from doing something’.
Unless undertakings are part of a framework such as the code for completion as was in Mr Stubbings’ case, the drafting of the undertaking is very important.
Here are some drafting principles using the SMART acronym:
Specific – undertakings should set out specifically what is being undertook to be done and it needs to be clear what that is.
If an undertaking is given to pay funds, to protect the firm, it should set out that payment will be made when and if the firm is in funds.
Also consider on a case by case basis whether to include a clause setting out that funds will be paid unless there is a legal restriction which means that payment cannot be made such as sanctions implementation or injunctive relief having been given. Undertakings should never be ambiguous or open ended. Try and avoid ‘best endeavours’ or words to that effect.
Measurable - the undertaking should set out the steps/measures that have been agreed to be undertaken and any specific sum of money to be paid or how this will be calculated.
Agreed - the parties to the undertaking must be in agreement.
Undertakings should ideally be given and confirmed in writing but they can be given orally. Remember, the word ‘undertaking’ need not be present.
Realistic - undertakings must be capable of being carried out. If they are dependent on other actions being taken then this must be spelt out.
Timed - Undertakings should set out when something will happen whether that be by date or upon another event occurring.
Non-routine undertakings (i.e. non completion code undertakings) should be recorded on the client file and in a centralised record as decided by each firm.
Remember that where there is ambiguity an undertaking will be construed in the recipient’s favour. It is worth noting the Harcus Sinclair LLP case (Harcus Sinclair LLP v Young Lawyers Limited [2021] UKSC 32) . Here the Supreme Court in 2021 reconfirmed the position that the courts do not have jurisdiction to enforce undertakings against incorporated entities. In contrast the High Court can enforce an undertaking given by an individual solicitor under the Solicitors Act 1974 as officers of the court.
When this case was heard, memory serves that there was a little ripple of firms who would not accept on behalf of their client an undertaking from an incorporated law firm and insisted it come from an individual solicitor. This is unnecessary. The threat of the SRA pursing a firm for breaching an undertaking is enough for an incorporated entity to fulfil the undertakings it gives.
The chances of an incorporated entity not fulfilling an undertaking is overall slim and to that end the risk to the client recipient is low. That ripple soon died down.
So where to next?
My advice is to use Mr Stubbings’ case as a talking point on this topic and to ensure that those who provide undertakings know what one is and how to draft one.
Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeships: The Affordable Path to a Legal Career
Are you interested in pursuing a career in the legal sector without the traditional university route? A Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship could be the perfect solution. This increasingly popular pathway offers an alternative entry into the legal profession, allowing you to earn while you learn and gain valuable practical experience from day one.
What is a Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship?
A Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship is a governmentbacked, training programme that equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed to work competently as a paralegal. This law apprenticeship can be found by training providers such as Datalaw, which takes 13 months to complete and is equivalent to A-Level qualifications.
During the apprenticeship, you’ll divide your time between workplace learning and academic study, balancing the responsibilities within your role and apprenticeship offthe-job training. This balanced approach ensures you develop both practical skills and theoretical knowledge simultaneously.
Key Components of Paralegal Apprenticeships
The Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship curriculum typically covers:
● Introduction to Law for Paralegals: Understanding the fundamentals of the English legal system, including how legislation is made, the role of common law, and the structure of courts and tribunals
● Legal Ethics and Responsibilities for Paralegals: Learning about professional standards, confidentiality requirements, and ethical obligations within the legal profession
● Professional Skills for Paralegals: Developing approaches to legal research, including the use of digital resources and research tools
You will also have optional modules which will allow you to specialise in certain areas of law. Upon successful completion, you’ll qualify as a paralegal and eligible feeearner.
Entry Requirements
While requirements may vary between training providers, most Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeships typically ask for:
● GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A* to C), including English and Mathematics
● Strong communication skills and attention to detail
● A keen interest in law and the legal profession
Many programmes emphasise that they welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including career changers looking to enter the legal sector.
Benefits of a Paralegal Apprenticeship
1. Earn While You Learn
Unlike the traditional university route, apprenticeships allow you to receive a salary while gaining your qualification. Apprentices are entitled to the national minimum wage (at minimum), and many employers offer competitive salaries depending on location (with London-based positions typically offering higher rates).
2. Gain Practical Experience
One of the most significant advantages of this apprenticeship route is the immediate hands-on
experience you’ll gain. From day one, you’ll be working in a real legal environment, applying your learning directly to practical scenarios. This experience is invaluable when competing in the job market and helps develop essential workplace skills that academic study alone cannot provide.
3. No Student Debt
With university tuition fees continuing to rise, many students are seeking alternative routes into professional careers. Paralegal apprenticeships are fully funded either by the employer or through government apprenticeship levy funds, meaning you won’t accumulate student debt during your training.
4. Clear Progression Routes
The Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship serves as an excellent foundation for career advancement. Upon completion, you could progress onto a range of further qualification pathways provided by Datalaw:
● Continue working as a qualified paralegal, potentially progressing to senior paralegal roles
● Progress to the Level 6 Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship
● Apply for the Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship to qualify as a solicitor
● Explore related apprenticeships in areas such as Data Protection and Information Governance
This flexibility makes the paralegal apprenticeship an appealing first step in a long-term legal career.
5. Develop a Professional Network
Working alongside legal professionals from the start of your training helps you build valuable connections within the industry. Additionally, you’ll form relationships with fellow apprentices who are on the same journey, creating a supportive peer network. These professional and peer relationships can provide mentorship opportunities, collaborative learning, and potential future job prospects.
Datalaw’s legal apprentice Alyssia Sableski shares her experience: “The workshops add an element of fun to the apprenticeship, and less stress. So I’m usually quite relaxed when it comes to workshops and cope well…I’d like to say I’m slowly building friendships with people as I’m going along.”
What Does a Paralegal Apprentice Do?
As a paralegal apprentice, your day-to-day responsibilities might include:
● Organising and administering legal files and case management systems
● Preparing and collating document bundles for court proceedings
● Taking and filing accurate notes during meetings and interviews
● Conducting legal research on specific cases or legal issues
● Drafting legal documents and client correspondence
● Managing data records and maintaining databases
● Communicating with internal and external clients
● Attending court hearings where appropriate
The specific tasks will vary depending on your employer and the legal department or firm you join. You might specialise in areas such as criminal law, family law, conveyancing, commercial law, or litigation.
How to Apply for a Paralegal Apprenticeship
Trusted legal training provider, Datalaw, is the pioneer for Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeships and trusted by over 428 law firms in the UK. With multiple start dates throughout the year, they are proud to achieve a 100% pass rate on the new paralegal apprenticeship standards, with every learner earning a distinction.
With their next cohort starting in July 2025, interested participants are recommended to sign up as soon as possible with Datalaw. To apply please visit: https://pages. datalawonline.co.uk/register-interest-form/
Funding and Financial Support
The cost of a Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship is typically covered through:
● Apprenticeship Levy: Employers with an annual UK wage bill over £3 million fund training through their Apprenticeship Levy contributions
● Government Co-investment: For employers below the levy threshold, the government covers 95-100% of the training costs
● Employer Contribution: Non-levy paying employers contribute just 5% of the training costs
This funding structure makes apprenticeships an affordable option for both employers and apprentices.
Conclusion
The Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship offers a practical, debt-free alternative to traditional legal education. With the combination of workplace experience, academic study, and professional networking opportunities, this pathway provides an excellent foundation for a successful career in the legal sector.
Grace Roberts, a Level 3 Paralegal Apprentice at Datalaw, shares her experience: “I found this pathway great for me as I’m learning on the job while earning. I wouldn’t have been able to gain this legal experience and network with as many solicitors as I did have, and I also wouldn’t have such a strong passion for law without this experience.”
Whether you’re a school leaver exploring your options or a career changer looking to enter the legal profession, this apprenticeship route merits serious consideration. It provides not just a qualification, but a comprehensive preparation for a rewarding career in law.
Datalaw will be hosting a free live webinar “How to Become a Qualified Paralegal in Just 13 Months” with Birmingham Law Society on Wednesday 11th June at 1pm. Book your free space here
Making AML compliance simple: A digital approach for legal professionals
Law firms today face increasing pressure to ensure their services are not exploited for money laundering or criminal activity. Even when a firm has solid Anti-Money Laundering (AML) policies and procedures in place, putting them into daily practice can be an entirely different challenge.
Whether it’s assessing risk at the client or matter level, conducting due diligence checks, or keeping records up to date, the practical side of compliance can feel like a full-time job.
Many firms still rely on a mix of paper forms, email trails, spreadsheets, and standalone systems to manage their compliance work. Staff may spend hours each week chasing identification documents and manually verifying client details. These manual workflows not only eat into billable time but can also leave firms exposed to risk if anything is missed.
This is where digital innovation can help and why Amiqus has partnered with the Birmingham Law Society.
A digital solution designed for the legal sector
Amiqus provides a streamlined, all-in-one platform for AML compliance and client onboarding, designed with the specific needs of legal professionals in mind. Rather than adding another layer of admin, it helps reduce it, freeing up your time to focus on your clients.
The platform is used by firms of all sizes and specialisms and offers an intuitive way to manage everything from client verification to ongoing risk monitoring, back-office reporting, audit trails, and more.
No two firms are the same, and finding the right AML solution depends on your size, risk profile, and internal processes. To support firms in making that decision, we have created a comprehensive guide to choosing the right AML tool, which is available on the Amiqus website.
Tackling common compliance challenges
Here’s how Amiqus helps address some of the most pressing pain points for legal practitioners:
1. Make trusted decisions faster
Client checks can be initiated in under three minutes, with instant results once submitted by the client. This significantly cuts down on manual chasing and delays.
2. Simplify client due diligence
Amiqus connects with over 30 trusted data providers and accesses hundreds of millions of global databases to verify client information. Core features include:
● Global biometric ID checks
● Multi source identity and address verification
● Credit report
● Source of funds and wealth analysis
● PEPs, sanctions and adverse media screening
● Basic, standard and enhanced criminal record checks
● SRA-approved risk templates and supporting guidance
● Audit-ready record keeping
3. Confidence in your compliance
Amiqus is a UK Government-certified ‘high-confidence’ identity service provider. The platform’s robust technology ensures that your client identity checks are carried out to the highest verification standards, giving you peace of mind.
The system is also aligned with the latest legal sector guidance and supports additional checks on Beneficial Owners, Officers, and Managers (BOOMs) and frontline AML staff, in line with the LSAG requirements.
4. A better experience for your clients
The client-side experience is designed to be simple and accessible. Your clients can complete checks on their own devices at a time that suits them. The platform guides them through the process in clear, easy steps and offers alternative verification options if a passport or standard ID is not available.
5. Expert support built in
Behind the technology is a team of compliance experts, including a former regulator, who bring deep sector knowledge and hands-on support. Amiqus can also provide tailored advisory and AML training services to support your internal teams.
6. Works with your existing tools
The platform integrates with leading practice management systems to streamline your workflows and eliminate duplicate data entry. If your system isn’t already pre-integrated, Amiqus’s open API makes custom integrations easy to set up.
Why it matters now
With regulators increasing their scrutiny and clients expecting a fast onboarding experience, firms can no longer rely on inefficient or outdated compliance processes. Amiqus offers a way to meet these demands without adding complexity to your operations. Instead of compliance being a burden, it becomes a smooth, secure, and client-friendly part of your daily work.
Ready to see it in action?
To explore how Amiqus could support your firm’s AML and onboarding needs, schedule a quick call with our team or email us at sales@amiqus.co
Paralegals And Regulation Industry
In the UK, paralegals are not subject to mandatory regulation under a single statutory framework. Solicitors are statutorily regulated by the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority (SRA), but there is no enabling statute within the UK Legal System giving the power to a single organisation to both regulate how paralegals are qualified and to monitor their conduct. This results in a grey area where consumers can become confused writes Amanda Hamilton, Patron of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP)
What’s in a name?
An individual cannot expressly describe themselves as a ‘solicitor’ (or even imply they are) unless they have successfully completed the prescribed training as directed by the Solicitors’ Regulatory Authority and are named on the solicitors’ role (located on the SRA website), but there is no such requirement for paralegals. The result is that anyone can describe themselves as a ‘paralegal’; lack of formal paralegal qualifications or experience does not bar someone from claiming to be a paralegal.
However, there is one long standing membership body within the paralegal sector—the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP; established in 1987)—that offers voluntary regulation to its members. If a paralegal professional is associated with NALP, they are regarded as being accredited and validated by the only paralegal specific membership body in England and Wales. This means that their credentials have been thoroughly checked.
To help consumers find a suitably qualified paralegal who has been checked and has undertaken to adhere to voluntary regulation, there is the National Paralegal Register which lists all NALP members and their membership categories. Some, who are the most experienced, will have been granted a Licence to Practise enabling them to offer services directly to consumers and businesses, but only after strict checks have been undertaken.
Regulation for paralegals
There are no other paralegal specific bodies – NALP is the only one. It has always been a paralegal specific organisation and does not offer membership
or accreditations for any other profession. Until very recently there was another paralegal membership body, launched in 2002, but that organisation has now closed. The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) has a paralegal membership category but CILEx is the statutory regulatory body for legal executives only and has no statutory remit to regulate any other profession. However, a paralegal can join as a member of CILEx and will be bound to comply with their code of practice and membership rules and regulations.
If a paralegal works for a regulated solicitors’ firm, then they can be considered to be under the umbrella of the SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority); the SRA regulates the firm and thus the paralegal should abide by the rules of SRA regulation.
Apart from this, there are no other paralegal organisations in England and Wales and no legal requirement for a paralegal to join a specific body, so the profession remains largely a voluntary, self-regulatory one.
Trusted qualifications
In addition to being a professional membership body for paralegals, NALP is the only Ofqual Awarding Body to offer bespoke paralegal qualifications. Paralegal courses are also offered by CILEx, but these are not Ofqual regulated.
Ofqual is the government body that regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England. All Ofqual awarding bodies must adhere to Ofqual’s compliance regulations and confirm annually that they are compliant. This means that these qualifications have been checked and verified as being fit for purpose and are, therefore, highly regarded throughout the UK and the world.
How are consumers protected?
In the absence of statutory regulation, it is vitally important for a consumer wishing to engage the services of a paralegal to look for one that is a member of a recognised membership body such as NALP, because each paralegal is checked thoroughly before the appropriate level of membership is granted, after which the paralegals must adhere to certain codes of practice. There are various levels of membership matching the paralegal’s level of qualification and experience. This should instil confidence for any consumer as there will be recourse to NALP should there be a need to do so.
The future of paralegal regulation
There have been a few discussions in the last ten years or so about whether or not the paralegal profession should be statutorily regulated, but this has not been popular and has been rejected by the sector on the basis that there is already too much regulation. In 2018, Professor Stephen Mayson produced a report recommending some sort of regulation for the non-regulated legal service providers but there has been no implementation or further discussion since. The main objection has been that regulation will cause the fee structure of paralegals to increase for consumers. Therefore, while the sector remains voluntarily regulated, consumers can still attain access to justice at a reasonable cost; but consumers should look beyond the word paralegal as that title is not protected by law in the UK.
www.nationalparalegals.co.uk
Top Ten Disadvantages Of Not Using Workflow In Your Practice
In today's fast-paced and competitive legal environment, you’re reliant upon technology to streamline operations and maximise efficiency. One central element of legal technology is the use of workflow systems which automate routine actions to progress your matters in a more organised and effective manner with less human input.
Workflow software explained
Workflow functionality is a key part of case and practice management software. It’s a way of automating how sequences of tasks in standard matters get done – using technology. The common workflow applications in law firms comprise:
• Document automation: Auto-creation of case-related letters, contracts and other paperwork via assistance of templates and precedents at the appropriate pre-defined workflow stage.
• Task automation: Auto-actioning of ordinary administrative duties from data entry when opening a new matter to billing at its completion, with auto-facilitation of tasks like document filing and time recording throughout.
• Case management automation: Auto-progression of matters including preparing for court, liaising with third parties, communicating with clients and tracking financials to keep cases moving.
• Compliance automation: Auto-documenting of tasks, autoreminding of deadlines and auto-triggering of risk mitigation features, not least anti-money laundering checks, gives an accountability and compliance boost.
Adopting workflow technology significantly supercharges your law firm’s overall output. Failing to implement such systems causes a range of issues that negatively impact your practice performance and client satisfaction.
Disadvantages outlined
To explore the disadvantages fully, here we set out the main drawbacks of not integrating workflow solutions to showcase how embracing technology is no longer optional but a critical factor in surviving and thriving in the modern legal landscape:
1. Increased risk of human error. Without automated workflows doing a lot of the heavy lifting in place of your people, there’s a higher chance of mistakes due to manual handling of tasks and duplicated data entry. Instead, rule-based logic launches a series of steps with a single point of data entry and limited human intervention.
2. Inefficiency and wasted time. Following on from #1, the absence of workflow means the presence of time-consuming manual processes, such as producing documents from scratch or repeatedly entering the same data, can reduce chargeable hours,
restrict profitability and lower productivity. In contrast, automation assistance allows your lawyers to focus on client-facing and strategic activity, saving vast amounts of time along the way.
3. Missed deadlines and important dates. No automated reminders and tracking systems lead to your vital milestones being overlooked and deadlines forgotten, potentially causing delays in cases and damaging client relationships. Legal matters are extremely time sensitive and setbacks have serious consequences on their success (or otherwise!).
4. Unpredictable client service. Without a clear workflow, your clients experience irregular updates, matter hold ups (as per #3) and inconsistent levels of service, as tasks and communications are handled on an ad hoc basis, often late, with differing approaches. Each interaction with your practice should feel similar but this is far from assured when workflow’s unavailable.
5. Reduced visibility into case progress. Similarly, without a structured workflow, it becomes difficult to monitor the status of your matters so there are problems regarding transparency, accountability and audit trailing. Conversely, real-time tracking and centralised information permits your internal teams to run optimally.
6. Poor collaboration among team members. Being devoid of workflow hinders communication and coordination between your employees and managers alike, so there’s confusion, duplicated effort, missed tasks and fallen-behind cases. Whether your teams are on-site, remote or hybrid, they’re empowered to collaborate seamlessly with workflow, particularly beneficial with cases involving multiple contributors.
7. Inability to scale. As your practice grows, managing a rising volume of cases manually becomes unsustainable, restraining your ability to take on more clients. When workflow’s utilised, more cases can be accepted and managed with the same headcount, so your earnings go up but your overheads don’t.
8. Heavier operational costs. Manual procedures require more clerical and secretarial staff who necessitate greater operational expenditure in terms of time, resources and salaries which impacts your revenue. Rather, workflow performs administrative tasks on your behalf, so staff concentrate on business-critical duties and you don’t need new recruits.
9. Hampered performance, measurement and decision making. Without the help of workflows, you struggle to collect meaningful performance-related data, making it harder to pinpoint current performance, identify areas for improvement and plan ahead for future success. Workflow, however, enables smarter decisions to drive your business continually forward.
10. Elevated compliance and other risks. Non-workflow governance of cases, documents, clients and data impedes conformity with regulations, for example accounting rules, practising and standards requirements, data protection laws and wider enforcements, thereby resulting in investigation, sanctions or reputational harm. With compliance support tools provided by workflow, stay ahead of regulations and keep your business out of regulatory hot water.
Workflow options made clear
It's good to know that workflow functionality is readily available in your marketplace. Discover some of the best workflow platforms at www.jayvaglobal.com/about-us/ourpartners. You may even find your existing software contains workflow features you weren’t previously aware of and aren’t yet using.
Jayva can help by optimising the technology you already own or subscribe to, as well as choosing and implementing new software packed with sophisticated workflow capabilities. Read about what we do at www.jayvaglobal. com/services and master workflow technology with Jayva right by your side.
Dye & Durham Enhances Environmental Due Diligence with
New EnviroAssure and Enviro360™ reports equip conveyancers with future-focused climate data ahead of anticipated
PRACTICE & CASE MANAGEMENT
LEGAL ACCOUNTING & BILLING
CLIENT ONBOARDING
DUE DILIGENCE SEARCHES
CONVEYANCING WORKFLOW & DATA
DOCUMENT CREATION & MANAGEMENT
AUTOMATED FORMS
CALENDARING & TASK MANAGEMENT
TIME TRACKING
dyedurham.co.uk AND MORE...
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
Get started today
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 ata-glance front page summary, providing direction and magnitude of change for perils including
river, sea and surface-water 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 easy-to-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, to be released 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 valueadd for end-clients.
