What is Law Reach and how can it benefit my firm?
Law Reach is a network of law and professional service provider firms that allows member to refer clients to Spencer West when faced with a conflict, lack of specialisation, or capacity constraints. This collaboration allows your firm to maintain client relationships while ensuring clients receive expert legal services.
Is there a cost to being a member?
No, it is free of charge.
How does the referral process work?
If you are unable to assist your client due to a conflict, lack of expertise in a special area of the law, or capacity issues you can refer the case to Spencer West through the Law Reach network. To refer a client, simply send an email of enquiry to [email protected]. A member of the Law Reach team will be in contact within 24 hours to discuss the next steps. Spencer West lawyers will then take over the matter with full transparency and professionalism, keeping you updated along the way.
How does the non-poaching agreement work?
The non-poaching agreement ensures that Spencer West will not attempt to retain your client for future services beyond the referred matter. If your client contacts Spencer West for additional work, the Law Reach team will always refer to you prior to moving forward. This protects your firm’s client base and preserves your relationship with the client after the matter resolves.
If I pass a matter to you, how will you ensure that I retain ownership of my client relationship?
Our onboarding systems require us to specify the client introducer. This means that if your client later approaches us directly, we can identify that we need consent from you before proceeding. For further details, please see the Law Reach Terms and Conditions.
Will I receive any portion of the revenue generated from the referred client?
5% of the resulting fees from the referred client’s matter will be contributed to the Spencer West Foundation, supporting charitable causes connected to the Spencer West community, reinforcing the network’s commitment to social responsibility. If preferred, we can allocate that 5% to you in recognition of the referral.
What is the Spencer West Foundation?
The Spencer West Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Spencer West powered by our global legal community focused on high-impact support. We partner with grassroots organisations worldwide, helping them amplify the change they are already creating. Grants are informed by colleagues who live and work in these communities and understand their needs. Registered with the Charity Commission of England and Wales in 2024, the Foundation operates independently, transparently, and with purpose, proud of the difference we make. To learn more, please visit the Spencer West Foundation webpage.
Will my firm be involved in the case after the referral?
While Spencer West will handle the legal work, your firm can continue communicating with the client and receive case updates as outlined in the referral agreement, ensuring continuity in the client relationship. Spencer West is prepared to manage all aspects of the engagement, including fees, terms, and the execution of the legal work.
How are fees handled when referring a client to Spencer West?
Spencer West will establish the fees for the referred client and agree on them directly with the client at the time of engagement. We will issue an engagement letter along with a statement of work. As the referring firm, your role will be solely that of an introducer, with no responsibility for the relationship between Spencer West and the client. We would be happy to discuss your reporting preferences and provide updates on the matter as needed.
How quickly are you able to put my client in touch with a lawyer?
We will acknowledge your request promptly and will generally be able to connect your client with a specialist lawyer within 24 hours.
How does Spencer West ensure smooth referral process and maintain our client relationship?
At the time of referral, Spencer West will consult with your firm to fully understand the client’s needs and align on fee structures and charge-out rates. This collaboration ensures that client expectations are managed effectively and that the referral process maintains the strength of your client relationship. Spencer West will also keep your firm informed of the arrangement and provide updates or check-ins on the progress of the referred matter as needed.
What flexibility is there around budget?
We appreciate that budgetary considerations can be an important factor for clients. We have diverse team of lawyers across different price points and carefully consider this when matching the best lawyer to your client and their specific needs.
How will Spencer West communicate with my firm after the referral is made?
Spencer West will maintain open lines of communication with your firm. We will keep you informed of key aspects of the arrangement and offer regular check-ins to update you on the matter’s progress, with the frequency tailored to your preferences based on prior discussions. Ensuring transparency and preserving the trust you have with your client is our top priority.
I have a matter I would like to refer. What is the next step?
Please speak to a member of our Law Reach Team, either by email to [email protected] or by telephone +44(0)20 7925 8080 asking for Jenna Schwerdtle at Law Reach or any other member of the team.