when can I get my documents and money
back?
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 fax it back to us along with
your identification documents. To apply in this way, click
here.
- 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. To make an application this way click
here.
- 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 here 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 here to find out how.
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:
Solicitors Regulation Authority
Compensation Fund
8 Dormer Place
Leamington Spa
Warwickshire
CV32 5AE
Click here for link to
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.
For further information please contact Susie Dryden on 023 8085
7159 or email susie.dryden@bllaw.co.uk
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