PM Law closure highlights importance of trusted local legal advice
The recent collapse of PM Law has left many clients across the country facing uncertainty about their ongoing legal matters.
The firm, which operated multiple legal brands nationally, closed suddenly earlier this year, prompting intervention from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). As a result, many clients have been left in the difficult position of having to find new solicitors while their legal matters remain part completed.
For those in the middle of buying or selling a property, or pursuing a personal injury claim, this can be particularly stressful. Transactions may be approaching key stages and cases may already be well underway, meaning clients must now transfer their files to a new firm and address questions around costs, funding arrangements and next steps. Many cases may also have limitation dates or court deadlines looming.
While it is never good to see a law firm close, particularly where jobs in the profession are affected, the priority must always be protecting the interests of the clients who have been left in a challenging position.
At Rogers & Norton Solicitors, we have already begun assisting individuals affected by the situation. Members of our Residential Property and Personal Injury teams have taken over matters where clients suddenly needed alternative representation.
A reminder of the value in instructing a local solicitor
Many of the clients affected by the PM Law closure were represented by firms located many miles away, often introduced through brokers, insurers or online referral arrangements.
Situations like this serve as a reminder of the benefits of instructing a trusted local solicitor.
A local firm understands the area you live in and the property market you are buying or selling in. For property transactions, that local knowledge can make a real difference when dealing with searches, local authority requirements and practical issues that arise during the process.
In personal injury cases, local knowledge can also be valuable. Solicitors may already be familiar with the roads where accidents occur, the workplaces involved, or locations where incidents have taken place, and may have experience dealing with similar claims.
Perhaps most importantly, a local firm is accessible and accountable. Clients can speak directly with the solicitor handling their case and, if needed, arrange to meet face-to-face.
At Rogers & Norton Solicitors, we have offices in Norwich, Dereham and Attleborough, providing accessible legal advice to clients across Norfolk.
Supporting client affected by the closure
If your legal matter was previously being handled by PM Law, a related practice, or indeed any other organisation unfortunately faced with closure, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible so that your case can continue progressing.
Our Residential Property and Personal Injury teams have experience taking over ongoing matters and helping clients navigate the issues that can arise when a case is transferred, including funding arrangements, conditional fee agreements (“no win, no fee”) and insurance considerations.
Getting advice
When choosing legal representation, it is always worth considering the benefits of working with a trusted local firm.
If you have been affected by the closure of PM Law and need assistance with an ongoing legal matter, our team would be happy to help.
For more information or to speak with a member of our team, please contact Rogers & Norton Solicitors on 01603 666001 or email enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk