SIR – I am a solicitor who has been helping victims of malpractice by some in my profession for many years. But the watchdog’s suggestion that the phrase ‘no win no fee’ should be abandoned in connection with compensation claims is ultimately flawed.
As in all things, the content always matters far more than the label, and if this particular label was banned no doubt cleverly euphemistic alternatives would be invented by those who wished to get round the ban.
The main problem is simply that ‘no win no fee’ does nothing to explain what exactly happens if you do win. Good practitioners will always take the trouble to explain this carefully, but the dodgy ones are assisted by the regulations governing such matters, which give them considerable latitude as to what they can put in the small print.
There is nothing wrong with ‘no win no fee’ in principle, and a lot to commend it – it has opened up the door to justice for many a claimant who could not otherwise afford it. The problem of the rogues in the legal profession is best dealt with by tackling them directly, a task at which our so-called watchdogs prove surprisingly inept.
A good idea should not be suppressed just to cover their blushes.
John Wilson, Wilsons Solicitors, Town Street, Farsley
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article