A new legal directory hopes to encourage consumers and small businesses to search for lawyers online.
AccessSolicitor recently underwent a makeover and has relaunched with a new design, a listing of 13,000 lawyers, and a series of legal guides.
The site, which is free to use, enables consumers and businesses to find lawyers in the UK using criteria such as specialization and location.
As well as the directory component, a series of legal guides covering subjects such as immigration and employment aims to educate consumers and small businesses about how to find a lawyer.
Recently I met the site’s founder and chief executive, Warren Smith, along with finance director Divyang Mistry, at their London offices.
Warren started out practicing technology law at Denton Wilde Sapte, before going in-house at a number of media and entertainment companies: Endemol, NBC Universal, and FremantleMedia.
On AccessSolicitor, he commented:
“Finding a lawyer can be intimidating, and while there is a wealth of information out there, knowing how to use it is another matter. AccessSolicitor is there to help consumers and businesspeople.
But we also want to help solicitors. The legal profession is undergoing radical change and everyone is feeling it. Following the introduction of the Legal Services Act, many are understandably worried about how they are going to fight off challenges from big brands entering the market. AccessSolicitor is an affordable and effective way to join the revolution.”
As well as solicitors, the site lists direct access barristers, legal executives, licensed conveyancers, and probate practitioners – the first product in the market with a filter to choose between them.
AccessSolicitor is backed by a number of investors including a global venture capitalist and professional angel.
Warren said that more features and increased functionality will be added over the next 6-12 months.
(Pictured: the British High Street)
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