Free advice for public on webA legal information Web site is to launch a pilot service offering free initial legal advice to consumers.Law on the Web (www.lawontheweb.co.uk) is the brainchild of Martin Davies, a former litigator with Portsmouth law firm Larcomes, who subsequently worked as a legal consultant.Mr Davies said that Law on the Web's free legal consultancy - to be called Ask No Questions - has arisen in response to demand.Those wanting information will complete a form on-line and submit this with an e-mail address to which an answer can be forwarded.

Mr Davies runs the company with his wife from their home near Chichester in West Sussex.Mr Davies said he has a panel of 19 law firms to answer questions - and potentially take on work - including specialists such as niche Cheshire-based personal injury practice Alexander Harris.It is hoped all replies will be dealt with within one working day.

Solicitors allocated by the Web site in order to answer inquiries will be chosen from the same geographical area as the questioner, unless the enquiry requires particularly specialist advice.Mr Davies said he hopes to make money out of advertising.Jeremy Fleming