Further to BK Watkinson’s letter I have seen an expense tucked away in the small print of terms and conditions, charging a client on a conveyance a sum approaching £100 as a contribution to the solicitors’ legal indemnity insurance.

I queried this at the time with the Solicitors Regulation Authority and was told that provided the fee was spelt out (however hidden) it was properly chargeable. I would have thought solicitors’ indemnity insurance was an expense of the practice, not a disbursement.

I have also in the past queried whether we can make a charge for the electronic identification of our clients and was told this was not permitted.

Helle Jacobsen, Jacobsen & Co, London SW6