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A request for a file (hard copies) from a solicitor who acted in a personal injury case was requested and responded that the file would be available in January 2025 and you have to give at least six months notice. No mention of a charge.
When we got back in touch with them to obtain the file they (solicitor) started to ask for a fee to photocopy per page of the file (quantity unknown) even though it is to be destroyed. They then extended the date in which they hold the file to 2028. It would be in their possession for well over 10 years.
As they would not budge, the matter was forwarded to the Legal Ombudsman. But because in previous communication they mentioned that they would charge for this we are outside the limit for their assistance.
We have tried to explain to Ombudsman that when they mentioned a charge we clarified the date of when they would destroy the file. Interpreting that when this happens they would no longer need payment but anytime before this date they would.
Anyone had this issue before or can advise?
When we got back in touch with them to obtain the file they (solicitor) started to ask for a fee to photocopy per page of the file (quantity unknown) even though it is to be destroyed. They then extended the date in which they hold the file to 2028. It would be in their possession for well over 10 years.
As they would not budge, the matter was forwarded to the Legal Ombudsman. But because in previous communication they mentioned that they would charge for this we are outside the limit for their assistance.
We have tried to explain to Ombudsman that when they mentioned a charge we clarified the date of when they would destroy the file. Interpreting that when this happens they would no longer need payment but anytime before this date they would.
Anyone had this issue before or can advise?