A new venture offering solicitors the chance to bid for work online after clients post a request for help claims to have signed up 70 law firms.

The concept, LawBid, is already used in the US and was introduced in the UK on 1 August by Kid Harwood (pictured), a solicitor director at Manchester firm Wildings.

Harwood told the Gazette that the new web service has far exceeded expectations, with more than 350 clients registered from up and down the country and an average of three new cases being posted daily.

Solicitors’ registrations are increasing steadily, he added, with more than 70 solicitors firms signed up to secure new instructions. The first case is being offered free to every solicitor who registers. 

'Interestingly, the types of case being posted cover a variety of legal specialisms which is beneficial to solicitors considering signing up,’ Harwood added. 'Most commonly posted at this stage are family cases, employment matters, conveyancing, immigration and personal injury.’

Through the website, users can upload their case requirements and set parameters such as location. The site then matches the cases with the most suitable law firms, who are informed by email.

Solicitors must register their interest in taking on the case within 24 hours of the client’s posting and make a bid by offering their quotation.

Clients make their choice based on the price and service offered, and can also view a customer review rating.

After introducing the two parties, the price and smaller details are agreed privately, with solicitors’ fees remaining undisclosed.

Harwood said a marketing push will deploy digital platforms and social media campaigns, as well as advertising through TV, radio and print.