Law Society set for redundancies

The Law Society is beginning a programme of cost-saving redundancies, citing the results of a recent consultation as the catalyst.

The society's representative side, which employs around 300 staff, has told 11 people that they are likely to be made redundant and has frozen 12 posts that were due to be advertised (as first revealed on www.thelawyer.com, 19 May). It is understood that further redundancies are likely.

The cuts come as the Law Society examines the results of its 'Have Your Say' consultation of the profession.

A society spokesperson told The Lawyer that international services and the library will be cut to reflect solicitors' opinions. Additionally, the society is refocusing its law reform work to concentrate on issues directly affecting solicitors.

The spokesperson added: "There will undoubtedly be further changes as we develop and implement the model for the future work of the Law Society and become the leaner and more cost-efficient professional body that solicitors have said they want."