Co-op launches first post-Clementi firm

The first ‘Tesco law-style’ legal service was launched today (30 March) by the Co-operative Group as it takes advantage of the Clementi reforms.

The Co-operative Group, which owns the Co-op supermarket, opened its new legal services head office in Bristol, dubbing it a “ground-breaking new legal business”.

The Legal Services Bill, currently in draft form, is expected to pave the way for Co-op to use its high street brand to offer a full range of legal products with its own in-house solicitors.

Currently Co-op does offer limited legal services, such as will writing, and employs 68 staff, which it expects will rise to 150 once the bill has been enacted.

Eddie Ryan, the managing director of Co-op Legal Services, said that the bill will make getting legal help and advice much simpler for people.

He said that Co-op is already a brand that many consumers associate with “openness, honesty and trust” so will make them feel more comfortable when looking to get access to justice.

Legal services minister Bridget Prentice, who cut the ribbon at the launch, said: “Most of us will need legal services at some point in our lives. Having a wider choice of where to get these services will make life easier for consumers.”