Regulator intervenes to protect clients after abrupt closure of PM Law and associated firms
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has formally intervened in PM Law Ltd and a number of associated firms following the group’s unexpected closure earlier this week, as the regulator moves to safeguard client interests and secure files and funds.
The SRA confirmed it was alerted on Monday, 2 February, to the sudden shutdown of PM Law Ltd and connected businesses. An investigation was launched the same day, with the regulator contacting the firm to ensure that appropriate protections were in place for clients with ongoing legal matters. Following initial enquiries, the SRA decided on Tuesday, 4 February, to intervene into the group.
An intervention is one of the regulator’s most serious powers. It enables the SRA to take possession of all documents and papers held by the firm, as well as money under its control, including client funds. Where any part of a practice remains operational, the intervention results in its immediate closure.
Sarah Rapson, chief executive of the SRA, said the regulator had acted quickly and decisively to protect clients. She acknowledged that the sudden closure had caused concern for individuals with active cases, noting that many affected clients were involved in property transactions or personal injury claims, matters that can already involve significant pressure and time sensitivity. The regulator said it could not disclose details of its ongoing investigation but confirmed that work was under way to gather information and respond to enquiries from those affected.
The intervention follows widespread disruption caused by the firm’s closure, which left clients and staff facing uncertainty. Reports indicated that the business ceased trading without prior warning, with clients unable to progress ongoing matters and employees informed that offices had shut.
The SRA also recognised the impact on employees, noting that staff had lost their jobs following the shutdown. The regulator stated that its immediate priority remains the protection of clients and the orderly handling of legal matters previously managed by the firm.
An intervention agent has now been appointed to assist with the process. Clients with active matters are expected to be contacted directly, with urgent and time-sensitive cases prioritised. The agent’s role includes securing files and facilitating the return of documents so that clients can instruct alternative legal representation where necessary.
The intervention applies to PM Law Limited and a number of associated entities, including Proddow Mackay Limited, 3M Law Limited, Linkfield Claims Service Limited, Butterworths Solicitors LLP, Autonet Law LLP, Proddow Mackay (Conveyancing) Limited, WB Pennine Solicitors LLP, Proddow Mackay Solicitors LLP, PM Law (Specialist Claims) Limited and PM Property Lawyers Limited. A wide range of additional trading names used by the group are also covered by the regulatory action.
Clients who have instructed any of the affected firms have been advised to await further communication from the intervention agent. The SRA has published initial guidance explaining the intervention process and stated that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the closure remains ongoing.