Cetainly not the only case.

After two years of trying I have just succeeded in getting a completion statement from the solicitors who did the conveyancing on the sale of my flat in September 2005. The statement shows a balance due to me of over £2,000. I have not yet managed to obtain the balance due. I have contacted the Law Society.

Saunders, London,

In 09/2001,the Court ordered that a detailed assessment take place of the solicitor's bill 'pursuant to Regulation 107 of Legal Aid Regulations 1989', Solicitor did NOT submit his bill (which exceeded the Cost limitation of 2,500 excl VAT) for assessment until 12/2006. When the Judge asked why was it that the bill was submitted late--over 5 years, the solicitor complained of a flood. On the day of detailed assessment hearing, the solicitor contacted the former client & the court and asked that the hearing be vacated. The hearing was vacated on the grounds that the solicitor gave his word that he would go 'direct' to the Legal Services Commision & claim within LSC's assessment limits. On, 28/04/07, he submitted a bill exceeding 4,000 GBP. LSC improperly assessed downwards. On finding the LSC's error the LSC directed the solicitor to go back to Court & 'intended' to recoup the bill. Solicitor paid 2,689 pounds improperly 05/2007. LSC still has not recouped money or corrected error.

L. Anderson, Deal, , England

When I practised as a solicitor, I had a case where the employment tribunal took 18 months to deliver its judgment, which was then successfully appealed on grounds of delay. I had other cases where lengthy delays of up to 8 months occurred due to the fault of tribunals. Essentially, these delays were the responsibility of the tribunal chairpersons, who had the responsibility for writing up the judgments. There should be an effective means of ensuring that legal services are provided promptly, since my letters of complaint were not enough to ensure progress.

Cathy , Bristol, Uk