New legal ombudsman set up to help consumers

Consumers dissatisfied with the service provided by their lawyer will, as of today (October 6th), be able to take their complaints to a new legal ombudsman, headed up by Adam Sampson, former chief executive of Shelter.

According to the Guardian, he expects to receive approximately 100,000 calls and letters each year, with around 20,000 to be investigable.

The body will retain the power to compel all lawyers to comply with matters of scrutiny and will be able to impose penalties such as paying up to £30,000 in compensation.

Mr Sampson noted that the ombudsman will be on no one person's side and will not enter into any case with prejudice.

"There are shoddy lawyers out there but we mustn't give the impression that we think that they represent the majority," he remarked.

Free services will be provided to members of the public, trusts, clubs, charities and small businesses, among others. ADNFCR-2353-ID-800101293-ADNFCR

06/10/2010 13:00

News category: Consumer

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