anonymous
Expensive, reactive and poor case management
I instructed John Hooper & Co for divorce financial remedy proceedings. My experience with Luke Pritchett was very disappointing. The issue was not simply that family law is expensive. It was what I felt I was being charged for. I often replied to correspondence the same day, sometimes within hours, but still found myself having to chase basic progress: what had been done, what was outstanding, whether deadlines were being acted on, and whether agreed next steps had actually happened. This was not a one-off. After important correspondence was received from the other side, I gave same-day instructions. Several days later, I still had to chase for a clear view, confirmation of whether the next procedural step had been taken, and whether anything further was needed from me. There were also avoidable errors and clarification loops. I had to clarify a mistaken conference date and query an incorrect attachment sent to me in error. I felt I had to do too much chasing and follow-up for basic case progression, which was frustrating given the cost. I had already raised concerns about the service and was reassured that matters would improve, but my experience did not materially change. I also explored whether another solicitor at the firm could take over or provide cover, but was told that was not available. In the end, I reached the point where I no longer felt comfortable leaving the matter in their hands. The same pattern continued when I moved firms. I was told my file would be transferred upon receipt of payment of the final invoice. I paid it promptly the same day, but still had to chase repeatedly. Even after providing bank evidence that the payment had left my account, the transfer was delayed while the firm tried to trace the payment internally. The file was eventually received by my new solicitor, but only after avoidable chasing. I was also notified of an hourly rate increase at a time when my confidence in the service was already very low. Overall, I found the experience disappointing, costly and frustrating. Based on that experience, I would not recommend Luke Pritchett or John Hooper & Co for divorce financial remedy work.
Luke Pritchett
Dear Anonymous SENT ON BEHALF JOHN HOOPER I am sorry that you were not satisfied with our services. Quite clearly, the divorce process can be stressful and can take longer than what a client wants it to take. Having said that, I have checked the file, and I am satisfied that the work that was done on your behalf was dealt with in a timely and competent manner. I hope that you manage to obtain the settlement that you desire but of course that is not always the case in family law. Yours sincerely John Hooper.
