The news last week that the majority of consumers relied primarily on friends' recommendations to choose a solicitor shouldn't come as a huge surprise. But it shouldn't be taken as reassurance either.
Equality guidelines on hiring and retiring solicitors form part of the new Solicitors Code of Practice, but don't forget to look out for the outcome of Seldon - it should bring further clarity to age discrimination legislation, says Anthony Philpot
Another year, another change, and this one – outcomes-focused regulation – should be the last. But, with firms already crying out for guidance, the SRA must start to be more supportive if it is to make it a success, says Susanna Heley
