Q and As

I am a partner in a firm of solicitors and have been summoned for jury service. My understanding is that solicitors are exempt from this particular civic duty. Is this correct?

Must a partner of the firm sign all bills before delivery to the client?

I'm acting under a damages-based agreement. The client wishes to end the retainer and believes they are not liable to pay costs. A clause in the agreement states that the client is liable to pay the costs and expenses incurred up to the date of termination. Is the client correct?

My firm advised the management committee of a golf club on constitutional changes. The chair was unhappy with the service and complained. The client wants to refer the complaint to LeO. Can it deal with complaints from a club?

I’m acting for a local authority bringing a claim for unpaid council tax against a deceased person’s estate. They did not leave a will and no family member intends to apply for letters of administration. How do I proceed?

I understand that the Legal Ombudsman (LeO) will now accept complaints from prospective clients where a person has unreasonably been refused a service. In what circumstances can I reasonably refuse to provide a service?

I act for a client in a contentious matter. The client has made no payment on account despite several requests to do so. Our terms of business state that when requested a client must make a payment on account of costs. Can I terminate the retainer?

I am a trainee solicitor working in a residential conveyancing department. Is it possible to exchange contracts by fax or email?

I’ve received a complaint from my client about the barrister instructed on behalf of the client. How do I deal with this under my complaints handling procedure?

I’m ready to exchange contracts on the purchase of a residential property. My client is a company and I’ve been asked to sign the contract on its behalf as all the directors are overseas.