Peer Review

Peer Review is an independent quality assessment of legal services managed by the Legal Services Commission. Independent solicitors with particular experience in the field of criminal law examine in depth a sample of the subject firm’s work, and grade it on a scale headed by (1) Excellence.

On 23 November 2006 Saunders Solicitors LLP was awarded the rating of Excellence, one of only three firms to achieve this. Below is the full text of the Peer Review report, with the names of clients removed.

“Positive findings

• The supplier’s clients were extremely well represented in all types of cases and at all stages of criminal proceedings.
  
  
• Police station advice was extremely competent, demonstrating a tactical approach to criminal defence and was recorded in detail on the files.
  
  
• Representation in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court was of the highest quality, with numerous acquittals and positive outcomes for clients on sentence, e.g. on the files of RR,MB and ND.
  
  
• The Supplier’s trial preparation was excellent and every possible angle was covered on files so that clients were assured of the best possible outcome. For example, no stone was left unturned on the case of RB and an acquittal ensued.
  
  
• The files reviewed suggested that the Supplier looked beyond the immediate demands of the case and considered clients individually and assessed their needs accurately. For example, the file of WHC was dealt with in an exemplary manner. The client had no experience of the criminal justice system and had obvious mental health issues. This was handled in a sensitive manner and a tenacious attitude on the part of the Supplier who succeeded in persuading the Crown Prosecution Service to discontinue the proceedings.
  
  
• Communication with the client was always prompt, accurate and helpful so that they were left in no doubt about the progress of their case.
  
  
• The Suppliers always responded promptly to any requests from clients.
  
  
• Files are kept in good order and are well organised.
  
  
• The Supplier went to great lengths to act in the best interest of its clients, even where they failed to attend Court (RB) and addressing another client’s concerns when he was reluctant to attend Court (LS).

Areas of Concern

• None

Areas for Development

• None 

• It was apparent from the files reviewed that the supplier was busy and carried a significant workload, yet there was clear evidence that a team structure was in place to ensure that cases were well prepared and that communication was always effective.

• The Supplier used its own Solicitor-Advocates in some Crown Court cases and this continuity had obvious benefits for clients.

• The supplier sent an extremely detailed client care letter to clients at the beginning of a case. Whilst the Supplier could in no way be criticised for appraising clients of relevant issues, the document might benefit from being more concise, as this could make it more accessible to some clients. 

Excellence (1)”