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Improve affordability by making unbundling a viable option

16 July 2025
Issue: 8125 / Categories: Legal News , Legal services , Consumer , Fees
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Unbundled legal services are rising in popularity, according to Legal Services Consumer Panel research

The panel’s 2025 Tracker Survey, published last week, found 21% of consumers opted for unbundled services last year compared to 18% who did so in 2024. Unbundling was most prevalent in probate (39% of clients), trademarks (36%), employment disputes (35%) and immigration matters (34%).

Only one in ten consumers was charged an hourly rate by their lawyer, while 57% paid a fixed fee.

Tom Hayhoe, chair of the panel, which provides independent advice to the Legal Services Board, said: ‘Innovative and affordable delivery models are no longer optional; they are essential to ensuring everyone can access a level playing field, not just those who can foot the bill. We applaud the Law Society’s actions to understand the risks in unbundling legal services but call on regulators to play their part in ensuring unbundling is a viable option for consumers.’

Issue: 8125 / Categories: Legal News , Legal services , Consumer , Fees
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MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

NLJ Career Profile: Kate Gaskell, Flex Legal

Kate Gaskell, CEO of Flex Legal, reflects on chasing her childhood dreams underscores the importance of welcoming those from all backgrounds into the profession

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dorsey & Whitney—Jonathan Christy

Dispute resolution team welcomes associate in London

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Winckworth Sherwood—Kevin McManamon

Special education needs and mental capacity expert joins as partner

NEWS
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Two speedier and more streamlined qualification routes have been launched for probate and conveyancing professionals
Workplace stress was a contributing factor in almost one in eight cases before the employment tribunal last year, indicating its endemic grip on the UK workplace
In NLJ this week, Ian Smith, emeritus professor at UEA, explores major developments in employment law from the Supreme Court and appellate courts
Writing in NLJ this week, Kamran Rehman and Harriet Campbell of Penningtons Manches Cooper examine Operafund Eco-Invest SICAV plc v Spain, where the Commercial Court held that ICSID and Energy Charter Treaty awards cannot be assigned
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