Research to better support smaller firms is commissioned

The Society has commissioned a new research project to ensure it can best support smaller firms and the essential services they provide.

Independent research company Taylor McKenzie will be contacting solicitors working in smaller firms, ranging from sole practitioners to firms employing up to 39 solicitors.

All relevant firms will be invited to complete an online survey, with a sample of respondents then selected to participate in a further in-depth interview/focus group.

Information being sought through the project will cover topics including:

• Demographic information and trends
• Technology accessibility, use and impact
• Staff recruitment, retention and turnover
• Regulatory and compliance burden on firms
• Mental health and wellbeing

Society President Susan Murray said: “Smaller firms are a vitally important part of Scotland’s legal landscape. In many communities they are the only local option for people and businesses to access the essential legal services they need.

“The Law Society is constantly engaging with members working in smaller firms, just as with other parts of the profession. We’re now looking to build on those insights to get the most complete picture possible of the key issues, challenges and opportunities for smaller firms.”

“The information we gather will be used to ensure that the Law Society is providing the best possible support to smaller firms. It will also help firms identify business improvements that they themselves can make to how they run their businesses.”

Smaller firms will be contacted directly by Taylor McKenzie Research in the near future to complete the initial online survey.

The Society's Vice President Pat Thom recently wrote an article on the Society's blog, discussing her experiences of working for a smaller law firm on the Scottish Borders, and the positives of doing so. Read it here, Smallers firms - a mighty legal force that's local