A national network of independent law firms has launched an online consumer marketing initiative to help secure work referrals and give the firms a strong internet presence.

The 65 firms that make up LawNet have banded together to launch a legal referral and advice website, called LawNetSolicitors.co.uk.

The site is the latest offering from a growing number of law firm collectives as they attempt to strengthen the solicitor ‘brand’ in advance of possible entry into the legal services market by big-name consumer brands. Law firm networks QualitySolicitors.com and The Legal Alliance launched similar initiatives earlier in the year.

LawNet’s new service gives business and consumer clients information on common legal problems to help them determine whether they need a solicitor, and then gives them the details of suitable solicitors based on location and work category. The client can then either contact the selected firm directly or email an enquiry to LawNet.

Lynda Millar, director of services at LawNet, said: ‘Our objective is to help firms secure a strong position in the online market. Unlike some of the other referral sites currently launching, we have named firms [whereby the firm provides a service under its own name].’

LawNet is a non-competing national network for independent, mid-market firms.