I was saddened to read the letter from Trevor Moore, ‘What is the point?’ (see [2009] Gazette, 3 December, 11). This is not the profession I practise or recognise.

I qualified in 1977 and, although there have been many changes since then, the underlying aim to serve the interest of clients, to the best of my knowledge and ability, with good quality legal advice, has not changed at all.

There is a huge reward in helping those in a time of need. The thanks and appreciation of a client brings its own status and respect. As high street practitioners, our firm makes a small but important contribution to our local community.

Mr Moore misses the point when he regrets the passing of the monopoly of legal services. A recommendation and referral by a satisfied client is far more valuable than a state-imposed monopoly.

A D Conway, Conway & Conway, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex