In light of the recent abrupt closure of PM Law Group, we've put together this guide to inform you of the next steps you should take if you are a customer of theirs and have been left in limbo.
If you’re part-way through a legal matter and your solicitor’s firm suddenly closes with no warning, it can feel frightening and completely unfair. People often worry their case will collapse, their money will disappear, or they’ll have to start all over again.
The reassuring news is that there are protections in place, and in most cases your matter can be picked up and progressed by a new solicitor. The key is knowing what to do next and acting promptly.
Below, we explain what typically happens in plain English – including conveyancing, probate/estate administration, accident claims and divorce – plus some straightforward general advice.
Conveyancing: buying or selling a property
If your solicitor’s firm closes while you’re buying or selling a property, it’s common for the transaction to pause. That’s because your new solicitor needs to obtain your file and then re-establish communication with the other side, estate agents, lenders and (if relevant) the chain.
What happens to your deposit or money you’ve paid?
In conveyancing, funds are usually held in a client account. Where a firm closes unexpectedly and the regulator intervenes, client money and files are taken into control and protected. It can take a little time for everything to be checked and allocated properly, but the purpose is to safeguard clients and ensure funds go to the right place.
What happens to the paperwork and progress made so far?
Your file (searches, contract papers, enquiries and correspondence) should still exist. A new solicitor can request it and pick up where things left off. If you were close to exchange or completion, your new solicitor will prioritise the urgent steps needed to keep the move on track.
What you should do: instruct a new conveyancing solicitor quickly, tell them the key dates (especially if exchange or completion is due), and provide any documents you have (emails, contracts, mortgage offer, search results).
Estate management: wills, probate and administering an estate
If a firm closes while dealing with a will, probate application or estate administration, it can be particularly unsettling. Families are often already coping with a bereavement and don’t need added uncertainty.
What happens to the will and estate file?
If a regulator intervenes, it will take control of the firm’s files and important documents (including wills and deeds) so they are kept safe. You can then arrange for the papers to be released to you or your new solicitor.
What happens to estate money held by the firm?
Any client funds held for an estate are treated as client money and are handled carefully as part of the intervention process. The aim is to identify what belongs to whom and release funds appropriately once checks are completed.
What you should do: instruct a new solicitor who handles probate and estate administration, and share any deadlines or urgent matters (for example, property sales, inheritance tax considerations, or time-sensitive payments).
Accident claims: personal injury and compensation matters
If your solicitor closes while your accident or injury claim is in progress, the most important issue is usually time. Many claims have limitation periods (time limits). A firm closure doesn’t stop the clock.
What happens to your claim and evidence?
Your claim can continue with a new solicitor. Your file should include evidence such as medical reports, photographs, witness statements and correspondence with insurers. Your new solicitor can request the file and carry on from the current stage.
What you should do: instruct a new solicitor as soon as possible and provide any documents you hold. Let them know about any upcoming deadlines, court dates, or important appointments (such as medical assessments).
Divorce and family law: finances and arrangements for children
Family matters are often the most stressful to deal with, and a sudden solicitor closure can feel like a huge setback. The good news is that your case doesn’t disappear – you simply need a new legal team to take over.
What happens to your divorce or family case?
Court proceedings, negotiations and interim arrangements can continue. A new solicitor can step in, obtain the file, and notify the other side (and the court if required) that they are now acting for you.
What you should do: instruct a new family solicitor quickly, especially if there are upcoming hearings or deadlines. If children are involved, continuity and clear communication are particularly important.
General advice: what to do next
If your solicitor’s firm has closed suddenly, these steps will help you regain control quickly:
- Gather what you have: emails, letters, invoices, ID checks you completed, key dates, and any reference numbers.
- Check for official notices: there may be a message on the firm’s website, on the office door, or from the regulator.
- Contact the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA): they can confirm whether an intervention has taken place and advise how files and client money are being handled.
- Instruct a new solicitor promptly: this is the fastest way to get your matter moving again and reduce delays.
- Ask your new solicitor to request your file: they can liaise with the intervention agent/regulator on your behalf.
- Don’t sit on deadlines: if you have a completion date, court hearing, or limitation period, treat it as urgent.
Above all, try not to panic. Even if you feel like everything has stopped, a new solicitor can usually pick up the matter, explain what happens next, and guide you through the practical steps to get things back on track.
How Howard & Co. can help
If you’ve been affected by a sudden firm closure and you’re unsure what to do next, we can help you move forward. At Howard & Co., we are already assisting clients who have been left in limbo and we can often take over matters quickly.
We focus on what clients need most in situations like this: prompt action, clear advice, and effective communication throughout. Our experienced team members will explain the position in plain English, request your file, and work to progress your matter without unnecessary delay.
Howard & Co. has been established since 1976 and is Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (Firm Number 8000040). We are also members of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme and the Children Law Scheme.
Contact us
General enquiries: 01226 215 215
Email: law@howardandco.co.uk
Offices (open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm):
4 Victoria Rd, Barnsley S70 2BB – 01226 215215
5-7 Regent St, Barnsley S70 2EG – 01226 211888
10A Market St, Penistone, Sheffield S36 6BZ – 01226 762261
If you’d like to speak to someone today, call us and we’ll talk you through your options.
