Consumer Legal Association launches to support claimants

28 Apr 2026News

A new trade body, the Consumer Legal Association, aims to enhance the £5.5bn claimant industry for consumers

In a significant development for the claimant legal industry, the newly formed Consumer Legal Association (CLA) is set to champion the positive contributions and standards within the £5.5bn-plus sector. The CLA, which consists of leading law firms and associated businesses, aims to showcase the long-term benefits its members provide to consumers, particularly those grappling with personal injury, clinical negligence, or other losses. Moreover, it strives to highlight the critical role the industry plays in employing more than 10,000 lawyers and thousands of support staff, contributing significantly to the UK economy.

Chaired by David Whitmore, former Chief Executive of Slater and Gordon, the CLA's board includes a roster of industry leaders such as Shirley Woolham, CEO of Minster Law, Peter Haden, CEO of Fletchers Solicitors, and James Maxey, CEO of Express Solicitors. Additional expertise comes from Juliet Oliver, the independent non-executive director and former Deputy Chief Executive and General Counsel at the Solicitors Regulation Authority, with Matthew Maxwell-Scott appointed as the CEO.

David Whitmore commented, “Our member firms and everyone who works in our industry are proud of the work we do for hundreds of thousands of clients in need of support every year. The CLA will be a powerful advocate for those people, as well as setting the highest standards for how all member firms operate.” He emphasized the association's commitment to helping individuals return to work after injury and addressing financial losses—a crucial service in the current climate of rising living costs.

Matthew Maxwell-Scott, the CLA’s CEO, added, “Our industry can speak with genuine confidence and satisfaction about the important work it does. The CLA will be the strong, constructive voice for its members and for people exercising their rights to make a claim when things go wrong.” He indicated the organisation’s desire to influence discussions surrounding civil justice, promote best practices, and ensure a successful, fulfilling career path within the sector.

Furthermore, the CLA will build upon the efforts of the Association of Consumer Support Organisations (ACSO), aiming to better advocate for consumers and enhance the profession's standards. For more details about the CLA, interested parties can visit their website or contact Matthew Maxwell-Scott directly.

Legal News desk contact: editorial@solicitorsjournal.com|

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