Searches UK: Get ready for mandatory transparency on pricing
The countdown is now on for law firms across England and Wales to meet new rules on transparency in the pricing for clients.
The mandatory obligations on pricing are part of a push by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to empower consumers.
From 6th December 2018, all law firms regulated by the SRA must proactively publish details of their charges and what the prices include.
Among the legal services included in the new transparency rules are conveyancing and probate, two areas that are among the most complex and frequently complicated.
Searches UK have the solution
Searches UK has the perfect solution for firms struggling to resolve the issue of how to show transparent pricing when they charge different rates at their different branches or offer a quote based on a property’s postcode.
Working with Searches UK’s Conveyancing Exchange with online website widget instantly provides your firm with a working solution. It provides an instant conveyancing quote based on the law firm’s specific details.
For more details on this intuitive and effective software, contact [email protected].
Making information easily accessible
The SRA’s new rules are aimed to giving consumers greater information and choice when it comes to choosing legal services. Firms will have to publish the typical timescale for quoted services and list their staff’s experience and legal qualifications.
All the transparent pricing is expected to be outlined on a firm’s website. And those firms that don’t have a website can’t avoid their obligations. They will have to ensure clients receive the information in an accessible way, either by email, post or in a leaflet.
Make the most of opportunities
Paul Philip, chief executive of the SRA, said:
“Publishing information on price, services and protections will not only benefit the public but will also help those who deliver these services win business and connect with their customers.
“We are providing guidance and support for firms to assist with meeting the new requirements and making the most of the opportunities they bring.”
The SRA intends to set up a new digital register including the names of all law firms it regulates in England and Wales. Those firms will then display a digital badge on their websites to demonstrate to clients that the solicitors dealing with their transactions are regulated and so the clients are protected. As part of the new transparency rules, each firm should also publish information on how clients can make a complaint where necessary.
Kindly shared by Searches UK
