For most people, the structures available under the Legal Services Act (LSA) still seem to be a distant development. However, from 31 March, 2009, under the new rules up to 25% of a firm’s partners can now be non-lawyers. This marks the first phase of deregulation under the Act, potentially changing the landscape of the legal profession forever. Those that sit and wait for the introduction of alternative business structures in 2011-12 risk being left behind in the competition, irrespective of whether they are a multinational practice or a small partnership. So, firms with a truly strategic outlook now have an opportunity to gain a commercial advantage.
Undoubtedly, some solicitors may question the introduction of non-solicitors as decision-makers within their firms. Accepting that there may be potential conflicts of interest within a firm and perceived cultural issues between professions, there could be significant benefits of welcoming non-solicitors and non-lawyers into a firm.
