A FIRM of Darlington solicitors is launching a Saturday service for people who find they are too busy to deal with legal issues during the week.

Latimer Hinks is opening the doors of its legal practice on the first Saturday of every month, starting on November 3.

The aim is to create a more relaxed, user-friendly environment that will encourage people, who may otherwise be reluctant, to consult solicitors.

The office will be manned by a small team of specialists from the firm, who will deal with any legal queries that people bring in.

Ros Dunn, assistant solicitor with Latimer Hinks, said: "The idea is simple, but it works in two ways.

"Firstly, we find that a lot of private clients are too busy to deal with non-urgent legal issues during the week, so this will provide people with another alternative.

"Secondly, the legal profession can often be perceived as quite aloof and stuffy, so taking this relaxed approach to the law might convince some people to see a solicitor who would normally be put off by it.

"Professional services shamefully lagged behind other sectors of society such as retail, leisure and even the world of banking when it comes to providing greater access. This is a small step in the right direction towards rectifying that."

The drop-in clinic will be open at Latimer Hinks Priestgate office from 9.30am to 1.30pm on the first Saturday of every month. There will be no charge for the first meeting.