Media Centre
Professional Update 12th January 2012
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12 January 2012 Read online: Society raises concern over HSBC lender panel sizeWe are considering all possible options following HSBC's decision to appoint only 43 firms to its mortgage lending panel for the whole of the UK. Although solicitors on the panel are Conveyancing Quality Scheme members, the small panel size risks limiting consumer choice. There are also potential regulatory issues that require clarification.
Becoming a judge: vacancies and trainingThe Judicial Appointments Commission has announced the selection exercise programme from February 2012 to March 2013. There are also current vacancies for senior and specialist circuit judges. Related training: Judicial appointments – interview training and tips for solicitors
UK taxpayers will pay cost of government's legal aid cutsAn independent report from one of Britain's leading universities has revealed how proposed legal aid cuts will save less than half of the £270m predicted by the government. The report identifies knock-on costs of £139m per annum. Related event: Legal aid conference - early bird discounts available
Society calls for full investigation into motor insurance industry practicesThe Law Society's chief executive Desmond Hudson has said that the insurance industry is increasing motor insurance premiums and has called for a full investigation into insurers' practices. The call comes after MPs raised concerns over the rise in whiplash claims.
First-time buyers' SDLT relief ends in MarchFirst-time buyers' stamp duty land tax (SDLT) relief expires on 24 March 2012, with no transitional provisions. Any transaction with an effective completion date of 25 March 2012 or later cannot benefit from SDLT relief, irrespective of the date of any contract or agreement.
Opening the doors to the professionBy signing up to PRIME, your firm will be committing to a nationwide initiative to improve fair access to the profession by providing quality work experience for talented school-age students from less advantaged backgrounds. You can find out more at breakfast briefings in Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham.
New carbon footprint tool for law firmsLegal Sector Alliance members can access a new comprehensive and user friendly online carbon reporting tool.
Compliance with the new rulesTwo new books are available to help practitioners navigate the rules governing the conduct of solicitors. Expert commentary highlights where the new regime introduces changes from the old Code of Conduct and offers practical steps to ensure compliance.
SBA The Solicitors' Charity
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The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL. Tel: 020 7242 1222 |
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