I am writing as chair of the Direct Conveyancing Association, which represents some of the largest direct conveyancers in the UK, to respond to comments made by Law Society President Paul Marsh (see [2009] Gazette, 29 January, p1).

I have had a number of meetings with Mr Marsh, who supports all initiatives, whether by high street or direct conveyancers, that promote solicitors as the natural choice of the public for conveyancing. I would like to add to the continuing debate about the direct model.

Over the last decade or so, a market has emerged that has presented a choice for clients between what is seen as the traditional high street approach, and direct conveyancing. Of course, in any developing market there will be casualties along the way and mistakes made.

The sad demise of Hammonds Support Services and Fox Hayes is a reflection of the extraordinary times that we live in. However, it does not automatically follow that the direct model is no longer sustainable. There are a number of direct conveyancing firms in the market which, while quieter than before (and who isn’t?), are still dealing with substantial numbers of transactions in a cost-effective way, and with client care and service very high on their list of priorities. They are still investing in their practices, by putting money and resources into IT and planning for the future.

The convenience to the client of not having to take time off work to visit a solicitor’s office – with 24-hour online tracking, online communication, scanning, and full transparency on files with dedicated specialist teams of conveyancers – is something which will increasingly become the norm. That model can only increase its market share in an ever more internet-based society.

This recession looks like being a catalyst for seismic changes in the provision of estate agency; it may also be a catalyst for changes in the structure of the conveyancing industry.

Business models may need to be re-examined to ensure there is the right level of margin to provide the services to which clients are entitled. However, I do not accept that the direct model of providing convenient legal services to clients is no longer sustainable.

Once the fog of recession clears, it will be fascinating to see how the conveyancing landscape has changed.

Edward R Goldsmith , Chair, Direct Conveyancing Association