OVER 100 locals affected by the collapse of a long-established Greenock law firm attended a public information event organised by the area’s MSP.

Thousands of McClure Solicitors clients were left in limbo in April 2021 when the business went into administration.

To help those impacted by its failure, Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan teamed up with the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission (SLCC) to run an information evening at the Beacon.

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He was joined at the event by SLCC chief executive Neil Stevenson who outlined the role of the organisation as the body responsible for handling complaints about the conduct or service of solicitors in Scotland to around 150 former clients of the firm.

Greenock Telegraph: SLCC information event at the Beacon in Greenock

Mr McMillan previously told the Telegraph that he has already been able to help several affected constituents receive compensation and hopes that the event will help many more.

Speaking after the event, he said: “McClure Solicitors went into administration and ceased trading in early 2021.

“Glasgow firm Jones Whyte LLP then took over the goodwill, work in progress and certain assets of WW & J McClure Limited.

“Several constituents have already contacted me with concerns as they or their relatives had trusts managed by McClure's, had a will drawn up by them, or some other business with the firm, and are unsure as to where their documents are and what the implications of the firm going into administration may be for them.

“Many former McClure's clients are also discovering when gaining access to their documents that it would appear the work they had paid for has not been completed as they had requested.

“I have spoken to several constituents who asked for their house to be placed into a trust and for both the husband and wife to be trustees – yet they’ve recently found out McClure's set up two trusts, one in each of their names.

“This will need to be rectified by other solicitors at cost.”

Mr McMillan said that those affected should be aware that while Jones Whyte holds their documents currently, they are under no obligation to use that company for any further legal work.

Greenock Telegraph: SLCC information event at the Beacon in Greenock

He added: “Further, the cost of any legal work to rectify issues could be small or substantial.

“That is why I wanted to hold an event with the SLCC, as they are able to award compensation if they find that they have a legitimate complaint. Neil answered many questions on the night and while he could not speak about specific cases, he could advise people that many of the issues they are facing could be investigated by the SLCC – if they choose to submit a complaint.

“I would therefore strongly advise any former McClure clients to have a look at the SLCC website or give the organisation a call on 0131 201 2130.

“Former clients can submit a complaint using their online form, or by post if they prefer.

“Constituents are also welcome to contact my office if they’re unsure about where to start, and my staff can give some general advice.

“I also have a section on my website which contains a lot of information about the McClure's situation, www.stuartmcmillan.scot/mcclures/.”