Law Society calls for greater support for small firms
Summary
The Law Society is urging government, regulators and local authorities to provide stronger support for small law firms and sole practitioners, citing recruitment difficulties, rising costs and regulatory burdens. Its research suggests smaller firms are under particular pressure from professional indemnity insurance, wage inflation and compliance demands, and may struggle to keep pace with larger firms investing in technology and AI.
Why it matters
Small conveyancing and property law firms are central to residential transactions, especially in rural and smaller local markets. Surveyors should note that pressure on these firms could affect transaction capacity, turnaround times and access to local legal support for buyers and sellers.
Key points
- 85% of surveyed firms said recruitment and retention were their biggest challenge.
- Rising professional indemnity insurance premiums, wage inflation and compliance costs are squeezing margins.
- The Law Society says compliance burdens fall disproportionately on smaller firms and fee earners.
- It is calling for full funding for Level 7 solicitor apprenticeships and lower regulatory/business costs.
- Greater support for digital transformation, AI adoption and community legal hubs is also being sought.
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