documents
You can request the return of your documents, Wills, deeds or
files in a number of different ways. The method you choose will
affect the speed with which you receive your files.
- The swiftest way to claim back your documents, Wills, deeds or
files previously held by the intervened solicitor is to print out
and complete an application form and email or fax it back to us
along with your identification documents. Click on the link to
apply via an application form.
- Alternatively, you can also print off and complete the
application and send it to our office along with your proof of
identification and proof of address. Once we have received your
completed application and supporting documents we will send you
your documents in the post. Click on a link to apply via an application form.
- Alternatively, you could come in person to our offices in
Southampton, Hampshire during normal business hours to collect your
documents. You should arrange an appointment time with us a few
days in advance so that we can ensure that your documents and files
will be ready for you. Click on the link for details
on how to contact us.
- If you have already found a new solicitor you can authorise us
to release your documents directly to them. Click on the link
apply to a release of documents.
money
If we are able to establish which clients are owed what money we
will, with the consent of the Solicitors Regulation Authority,
release the money back to those clients. If you believe that the
intervened firm held money on your behalf, please click here
to complete the claim form and
return it to us with any documentary evidence you have in
support.
We take very seriously the need to protect client money and take
all possible precautions to ensure that we are releasing the money
to the correct person. The length of time this will take will
depend on the condition of the intervened firm's accounting
system.
Unfortunately in some cases it is not possible for us to release
the money, for example if the firm's accounting records are
inadequate. In these cases any money held by us is sent to the
Solicitors Regulation Authority. To claim some of your entitlement
you would need to contact the Solicitors Regulation Authority
Compensation Fund on the following address:
Claims Management Unit
Solicitors Regulation Authority
The Cube
199 Wharfside Street
Birmingham
B1 1RN
Click on the link for information on Solicitors
Regulation Authority Compensation Fund.
If you are unable to wait for us to complete the examination of
the accounts then you may make an application to the Compensation
Fund at the address set out above. Please note that applications to
the Compensation Fund should be submitted within six months.
Please also note that in order to make a claim on the Compensation
Fund you will need to show that you have suffered actual financial
loss. The loss must have arisen during a solicitor's normal work.
It must have been caused by the dishonesty of the solicitor, or you
must be suffering financial hardship as a result of the solicitor's
failure to pay money he or she has received either to you or on
your behalf.
