something has to give

Christopher Digby-Bell's comments show a lack of understanding of the work carried out by smaller firms.As a sole practitioner, I receive numerous telephone calls asking for free advice.

In common with most firms in my area, I offer free interviews.

I also offer no win no fee arrangements.

These shift the risk of losing from the client to myself and often results in a fee which is much lower than my hourly rate.

This is all effectively pro bono work and is taken for granted by many smaller firms.When I was a trainee in the City, in common with others, I worked as a volunteer at a local Citizen's Advice Bureau and law centre, the aim being primarily to obtain hands-on experience that was not available to a trainee at a large City firm.The free or low-charge advice work I offer now as an experienced solicitor is a great deal more useful to clients.

I imagine that my salary is about one-tenth of that of many City lawyers.Can Mr Digby-Bell explain why it is ironic that those on higher salaries, although apparently only the younger ones should also 'give a lot back'?Lydia Thomson, The Employment Law Practice, York