Client Interest Policy

In accordance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s Accounts Rules, Frodshams Solicitors Limited, (Frodshams), are required to account for interest on money held by us in our client account, when it is fair and reasonable to do so.

The holding of client money is incidental to the carrying out of client’s instructions. In addition, we are required to hold client money in an instant access account to facilitate transactions. As a result, the rates of interest paid under this policy are unlikely to be as high as those obtainable by a client, who is not subject to these restrictions.

Interest will be paid where the amount calculated on the balance exceeds £50. Where money is held in relation to separate matters for the same client, we will treat the matters separately, unless the matters are so closely related that they should be considered together.

Where client monies are held in our general deposit account, we will pay interest without deducting at source. Our clients will be responsible for declaring any interest to HM Revenue & Customs. Where client monies are held in a designated deposit account, interest is usually paid net of basic rate income tax.

Interest will be calculated in a daily basis, using the average rates of interest offered to business customers on instant access deposit account across all banking institutions where Frodshams hold general client funds. Where appropriate we will adjust these rates to take into account our overall banking arrangements, so far as they affect the rates received.

Interest will be calculated on cleared client funds. In the case of cheques received, this will be five days after the cheque has been deposited with our bank and our amounts received in cash, or via credit or debit card, standing orders, BACS and CHAPS, interest will accrue from the day of receipt into our client account. Where Frodshams issues cheques from client account, interest will be normally be paid for three days from the date of issue.

Frodshams will normally account to the client for interest at the conclusion of the matter. Where we consider it appropriate, we will calculate and credit interest on a daily basis.

Clients may contract out of receiving interest by signing a written agreement with the instructed solicitor, who must ensure that the client has been provided with sufficient information at the outset of the matter to enable them to give informed consent.

This interest policy, including the de-minimis limit of £50, will be reviewed periodically, particularly if changes are made to the Bank of England’s Base Rate.

Complaints regarding this interest policy and the amount of interest paid should be directed to Claudia Price in the first instance. If this does not result in a satisfactory resolution, then clients may refer the matter to the Legal Ombudsman.

Wendy Eldakrouri

Head of Accounts

10th May 2024