Open Forum on Alternative Business Structures (ABS)

The LSB would like to invite you to the latest event, produced in partnership with the North East regional Law Society and the circuit.

The Open Forum will be held in Northumbria University [Room 401 Newcastle Business School and School of Law Building] on Tuesday 16 February 2010, between 5.30pm-7.45pm, followed by drinks.

As you know, the Legal Services Act removed restrictions on lawyers and non-lawyers entering into partnership. The effect of this will be to open up a range of opportunities for lawyers to work together with professionals in other sectors – for example through legal services being offered alongside accountancy, tax or insurance services.

For professionals outside the legal sector, this new flexibility will mean more freedom when it comes to offering legal services and shaping their business model. For consumers, benefits will include being able to access a range of legal and non-legal services through one organisation, whilst new entrants to the market increase choice and innovation.

The Legal Services Board is keen to hear both lawyers and other professionals on their perspectives on how the licensing regime for ABS can best support these benefits. This event, as part of a national roadshow, is your chance to have your say.

Speakers on the panel will include:

David Edmonds , Chairman of Legal Services Board
Philip Plowden, Dean of Northumbria Law School
Lucy Winskell, Partner, Sintons LLP
Crispin Passmore, Director of Strategy at the Legal Services Board

If you would like to reserve a place please email: ABSforum@legalservicesboard.org.uk