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Complaints procedure

If something goes wrong, tell us.

We aim to provide a high standard of service. When we don't, we want to know so we can put it right — quickly and fairly.

Step 1 — Tell us directly

Please contact Venice McDonald in the first instance. Include:

  • Your matter reference (if you have one)
  • What went wrong, in your own words
  • What outcome you'd like

You can reach us by:

We will acknowledge your complaint within 5 working days and aim to provide a full final response within 8 weeks. If we need longer, we will explain why and give you a new date.

Step 2 — The Legal Ombudsman

If you are not satisfied with our final response, or if 8 weeks have passed without a final response, you can ask the Legal Ombudsman (an independent body) to consider your complaint.

Time limits apply. You must refer your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman:

  • Within six months of our final written response, and
  • No later than one year from the act or omission complained of, or one year from when you should reasonably have known there was cause for complaint.

Contact the Legal Ombudsman:

  • Telephone: 0300 555 0333
  • Website: legalombudsman.org.uk
  • Post: Legal Ombudsman, PO Box 6167, Slough, SL1 0EH

Step 3 — The SRA (for conduct concerns)

The Legal Ombudsman deals with service complaints. If your complaint relates to the conduct of a solicitor — for example, dishonesty, misuse of client money, or a serious breach of the SRA Code of Conduct — you can report this to the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Cost. Our complaints process is free. The Legal Ombudsman is also free for clients. You don't need to instruct another solicitor to bring a complaint.

Still need to speak to someone?

If you're an existing client and would prefer to discuss your concern by phone first, ask for Venice directly.