Gold Standards Wills and estate planning.
We meet and exceed the CMAs safe to do business with recommendations for estate planners.
Accord legal services follows the code of practice of NALP (National Association of licensed paralegals) that provide industry standards to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws. All of our advisors are as a minimum registered Paralegals, this means that they have a minimum level of qualifications or experience to be accredited with this title.
For our clients this provides peace of mind that you are dealing with experienced, qualified individuals who follow a strict approved code of conduct, designed to safeguard clients and ensure ethical business operations.
The CMA emphasises and confirms that estate planners play an important role in offering innovative, affordable and accessible options for legal services such as will writing and estate planning and sets out a checklist of considerations for consumers to consider. We are proud to confirm that Accord Legal Services exceeds all of the recommendations prescribed by the CMA as detailed below
- All of our advisors, as well as our in house legal team are qualified to a minimum of Paralegal status in addition we have full STEP qualified individuals and solicitors who form part of our National Team
- All of our advisors are required to undertake mandatory Continuing Professional development training every year
- In the rare event that we receive a complaint we have a complaints procedure that is available upon request from our office Manager.
- We have full indemnity insurance as is required by our Professional Regulatory Body NALP
- All of the Wills that we create are drafted by us in-house using a team of paralegals, TEPs and solicitors. We do not provide a template for you to complete and all instructions are taken by a qualified advisor, giving you peace of mind that you are dealing personally with advisors who are qualified and regulated by NALP. Not just meeting but exceeding the CMAs recommendations.
- Fees – we operate on a fixed fee basis, we provide clear transparent quotes prior to taking instructions, meaning you are fully aware of any costings.
| CMA Guidance Focus | What It Means | Our Response |
|---|---|---|
| Clear pricing | Clients must understand the total cost before committing. | We provide fixed fee pricing. No hourly billing. No hidden extras. Fees are confirmed before work begins. |
| Transparency about professional executor fees | Clients must understand how fees are calculated and that they have a choice. | We clearly explain executor options, including the right to appoint family, friends or professionals. We provide examples of professional executor fees when required. |
| Fair contract terms | Terms must not allow unlimited discretion to vary charges. | Our terms avoid open-ended variation clauses. Any changes are limited to objective triggers such as changes in law or regulatory standards. |
| No misleading claims | Firms must not imply regulation or exaggerate risks. | We openly clarify our level of expertise and professional accreditations. We educate rather than alarm. |
| Clear pre-contract information | Clients must understand what they are buying. | Our consultations are structured, in plain English and documented. All prices are agreed upfront during the initial consultation. |
| No pressure selling | Decisions must be informed, not rushed. | We do not use time-limited scare tactics or high-pressure sales scripts. Clients are actively encouraged to take time, ask questions and consider their options. |