WHSmiths has recently partnered with Quality Solicitors to provide its customers with a legal offering . But is this taking the commercialisation of legal services too far, and actually devaluing it?
When buying newspapers, books and stationery, shoppers visiting WHSmith stores will now be able to access legal services as part of a new partnership with legal superbrand, QualitySolicitors. The new Legal Services Act, dubbed “Tesco Law” will come into effect from October 2011 allowing non-legal organisations such as banks and supermarkets to offer legal services.
QualitySolicitors argue that many customers have little knowledge of legal services, and would therefore value a trusted shopper-focused brand to provide these services. Why? Because they will turn to a consumer product they at least recognise. Until recently patrons were sceptical about the idea of buying insurance or a mobile phone contract from a supermarket. Both are now seen as standard. Legal services seem to be the next step.
However this new move could be regarded as ‘dumbing down’ and devaluing of legal services and pose a significant threat to the future existence of traditional ‘high street’ law firms. Many customers don’t automatically gravitate to the perceived security of high street stores. Instead, consumers value quality of advice and price certainty, far above the comfort factor of big brands.
Despite some viewing that this new Legal Service Act will devalue the industry we don’t think it will have a profound effect on legal professionals – what’s your view? And do consumers really want to buy their wills with their notebooks or conveyancing services with their newspaper Let us know what you think.
