I read with some amusement the article regarding complaints about Salford.

Obviously those on high have been thinking for some time about the future of court work in this country. We have been steered away from the courts via the urging of the parties to mediate. We seem to have a large warehouse processing claims. We have had the joys of schemes where court telephone systems have simply been turned off for a period during the summer time and now court counters are being closed.

We are told that these have worked well with no real complaints. I am sure if the Law Society asked for a show of hands, I cannot imagine for one minute there is anyone who would applaud the changes.

The frustration is going to mount. Courts had the benefit of incredibly helpful, knowledgeable staff. The inability to have this contact in the future is going to be frustrating and beneficial only to those who are trying to save a few pounds but who unwittingly might be leaving themselves open to chaos.

Litigation is not always simple or predictable. It has many quirks, and the ability to correspond and speak with the court was vital to keep things running smoothly. We will wait and see what happens. I expect there will be many column inches to come for the Gazette.

LS Harrison, solicitor, Moseleys, Lichfield