HM Land Registry has advised former clients of PM Law to urgently appoint new legal representatives following the firm’s sudden closure earlier this month.
PM Law, which specialised in conveyancing services, ceased operations abruptly in early February. Reports indicate that staff arrived at work to find offices closed and IT systems inaccessible, leaving hundreds of property transactions in uncertainty.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has since formally intervened in PM Law and associated practices in order to protect client interests. The regulator has also begun issuing emergency payments from its compensation fund to affected clients.
In a public statement, HM Land Registry acknowledged the “unusual and unfortunate circumstances” faced by customers impacted by the closure. The agency stressed that land registration procedures can be complex and strongly encouraged affected individuals to appoint new solicitors as soon as possible to ensure their applications continue without further delay.
Where clients have not yet instructed new legal representation, Land Registry confirmed it will attempt to contact them directly regarding their applications. However, the organisation cautioned that it may not be able to reach everyone due to limited or incomplete contact details previously provided by PM Law.
Land Registry is currently reviewing all applications submitted by PM Law Group. Former clients may contact Land Registry to confirm whether their property registration application was lodged by the firm.
If an application has already been processed, completed documentation may be sent directly to the client — provided contact details are available. In cases where no direct contact information exists, documentation will instead be forwarded to the SRA-appointed intervention agent, Gordons LLP.
Where further information is required to progress an application, Land Registry will notify affected clients where possible.
Land Registry reiterated that property registration rules can be complicated and advised anyone unsure about their position to seek assistance from a newly instructed solicitor.
The official announcement also directs affected individuals to the Law Society’s “Find a Solicitor” service and to the SRA’s guidance on reclaiming money held by the regulator.
