Solicitor problems

[tazzy]

I'm currently using a Solicitors firm from the TV. I made a written complaint and they only answered one out of the six comments. How can I make a formal copmlaint about how they have handled my case?

[buildersmate]

All solicitors have to work under the auspices of the Law Society - the professional body for solicitors - a bit like the BMA for doctors.

The Law Society insist that in the first instance you must complain to the firm in writing (which you have done). They also require that companies have a partner of the firm in charge of investigating complaints - so you follow that avenue now. Write again stating that you are formally complaining about the issue to the partner in charge of complaints. Only if that fails can you approach the Law Society.

[Buenchico]

BM has answered your question. I'll just add this link:
http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/ redressscheme.law

Chris

[Golden Shred]

In reality it is utterly useless and a complete waste of time and effort to follow the above advice. You will end up nowhere. If there is money in it find a solicitor who specialises in complaints against solicitor's (Google will throw some up) and bung in a writ. If there is no money in it forget it.

[Buenchico]

It's unusual for GS and myself to agree on anything but I have to admit that there's probably a great deal of truth in what he/she writes.

A reference to the Law Society might be worthwhile but you'll probably get a much better response if your letter of complaint, to the firm of solicitors which has been inefficient, contains something like the following:
"Please note that, if I do not receive a satisfactory response to this letter, it is my intention to advise the media of the poor service provided by your company. In particular, please note that I have already drafted letters, expressing my concerns, for the attention of BBC TV's 'Watchdog' programme, Radio 4's 'You & Yours' programme and several national newspapers".

Chris

[buildersmate]

Well GS, I suppose it rather depends on the foul-up by the solicitor. I got only as far as complaining to the partner in charge before the company forked out for an indemnity policy to cover me for the mistake they had made during a land conveyance. I've never had to deal with the Law Society.