The Co-operative Legal Services (CLS) has won one of the industry’s top awards for innovation.
The Legal Industry Pioneer Award, given to the organisation which has taken the boldest steps in pursuing alternative business models or new ways of delivering legal services, was awarded to CLS at the prestigious Financial Times Innovative Lawyers 2011 awards.
CLS won the coveted award despite competition from some key competitors, scoring 23 points out of a possible 30 points available to the judges.
The Financial Times, said:
“A big brand with ambitions to become the largest consumer focused legal provider in the UK in 10 years time. The Co-operative seeks to run its own legal services division with substantial synergies between its Funeralcare and financial services business lines.”
The legal services market is undergoing a period of change, and on receiving the award, Eddie Ryan, Managing Director of CLS, commented:
“This recognises the important role we are playing in shaping the future structure of the legal market place. I would just like to say how proud I am of our great team and to thank them all for their contribution to this success.”
CLS provides a wide range of legal services to clients in the UK ranging from probate advice, through to personal injury claims.
One of the key factors in the ongoing success and strong reputation of CLS is the strength of the co-operative brand and its ethos of social responsibility. Co-operative Legal Services provides a range of services to Co-operative Members and non-members.
Some of the areas where customers can seek professional help and advice include:
- Will writing – what type of will is right for your individual circumstances.
- What to do when someone dies – advice on the legal, tax and administrative responsibilities and an assessment of whether probate is required
- Moving home – an explanation of the Conveyancing process and help with some of the complexities including deeds and boundary disputes
- Employment issues – advice and support with employment issues such as unfair dismissal, discrimination and redundancy
As well as the telephone based service the the CLS website provides a wealth of support information on a variety of legal topics, so potential clients can see at-a-glance what their particular legal issue may involve.
There are also handy interactive guides which take people through sets of questions to ascertain what their legal requirements may be for specific topics.
In a climate of economic uncertainty, CLS has recognised the value in providing clients with fixed fee legal services wherever possible, providing the confidence needed during what can be difficult times. There’s even a ‘no move no fee’ guarantee on the conveyancing services provided by CLS.
Notes to editors:
The Co-operative Legal Services, part of The Co-operative Group, the UK’s largest mutual retailer, provide a range of legal services to members and customers covering Will Writing, Probate & Estate Administration, Conveyancing, Employment and Personal Injury Claims. A wide range of free legal advice is also provided.
For more information contact:
Dave Smith
Co-operative Legal Services Press Office
Tel: 0161 827 5614
Fax: 0161 832 2751
Email: dave.smith@co-operative.coop
