A law firm can be closed by the Law Society overnight. The solicitors’ professional body has the power to shut down a practice without having to go to court for an order, or even give notice of its intention.

This extensive power, under the Solicitors Act 1974, has devastating consequences. The society is entitled to all the monies held, whether the firm’s own funds or those of its clients. It carries off every bit of paper relating to the practice, including all client files, open or closed.