Countrywide legal consumer information campaign launched

21 April 2008

Today the Law Society has launched an information campaign to make consumers across England and Wales aware of how solicitors can help them solve a wide range of problems.

The campaign, YOUR SOLICITOR, QUALIFIED TO ANSWER  which will run from April until June, is aimed at encouraging consumers to use solicitors by highlighting the kinds of problems they can help with and how having  the right legal information can help save money, time or heartache and often all three.  

Advertising in national papers, as well as billboards and taxis in your area will direct viewers to the Law Society’s website.  Once there they can search for a solicitor to help them through the ‘find a solicitor’ service as well as more in-depth information about how solicitors can help. 

Des Hudson, Law Society Chief Executive says: “Most of us need expert legal help at some time in our lives, but not everyone knows where to turn. Unfortunately most problems don't just go away, and by ignoring them they can get worse – and more expensive.”

Solicitors offer a wide range of services. From writing wills to resolving disputes between neighbours, from problems at work to buying and selling  your home and putting together your Home Information Pack. 

For example when making a will it can be tempting to use a bank or will writer and although they may seem cheaper on the surface the true cost may not be established until it is too late. 

The Law Society advises that it is vital to see a solicitor for expert advice so your family can avoid paying unnecessary levels of inheritance tax.  Recent changes to the inheritance tax regime mean that it is more important than ever to obtain a solicitor’s advice on wills, tax and trusts planning. “Paying upfront for a solicitor could save you money in the long run”, says Mr Hudson.

Recent research by the Law Society found that those aged 16-24 are the least likely to have an up to date will, with only 5% holding one. However, with the exception of the 55-64 and 65+ age group, 50% or more of participants did not have a will that was up to date.

Only 31 per cent of the age group 35-44 had a will despite the likely situation of owning a house and possibly the responsibility of children.

The Law Society has produced Customer Guides to help consumers on various legal topics and they are available online at www.lawsociety.org.uk/commonlegalproblems. They focus on; making a will, probate, setting up a home with your partner, renting out your property, renting a home, financial matters for the elderly, buying a home, getting a divorce, personal injury claims, problems at work, setting up a business, using a solicitor, and asylum.