Paradigm Group members will have two options when it comes to using APS Legal & Associates – they can act as either an Introducer or an Associate. Regardless of the option chosen the adviser will not have to write any legal documents.
Those members opting for Introducer status will be able to offer their clients access to the range of legal services offered by APS Legal & Associates including the use of its 140 consultants based throughout the country. Having made the introduction to APS, the client is then visited by an APS consultant who takes all the details before producing the necessary legal documentation. All consultations are free, so there is no obligation placed on the clients. For their introductions, Paradigm members will receive 15% of the cost of the service to the client.
The second option is offered exclusively to Paradigm members and allows advisers to become Associates of APS whereby they become qualified estate planning consultants. This means members will be able to offer legal services directly to their clients and enhance their income without the need to refer it onto a specialist and without all the hassle of extra paperwork.
To become a fully-qualified consultant, APS Legal & Associates have designed an intensive three-day training course exclusively for Paradigm members which will result in each individual receiving an industry-recognised qualification. APS provide all the ongoing support required for members to provide a complete estate planning service to clients including:
• The knowledge, skills and confidence to take instructions.
• The professional production of wills and other associated legal documents.
• A complete ‘back office’ function including reception, secretarial and administration support.
• The use of the company’s corporate identity.
• Membership and accreditation to both APS’s membership bodies.
• Provision of a practising certificate and the right to use logos on stationery and advertising materials.
• Full lifetime PI insurance (to £2.5m) and public liability insurance (to £1m), providing the adviser operates within the conditions of the Associate agreement.
• Ongoing legal, technical and mentor support.
• Internet-based information service, The Associate Information Centre (AIC).
• Ongoing Continuous Professional Development and continuation training provided on a regular basis.
As all APS’s legal documentation production costs are charged at 35% (inclusive of VAT) of its suggested retail prices, advisers will gain 65% profit for their legal services business.
APS will provide the Associate package exclusively for Paradigm members at a cost of £625 plus VAT, with no ongoing costs. Alternatively, the member can choose to pay £250 upfront and £250 when they begin the course, with the balance paid out of the income they generate. This will allow Paradigm members to spread the cost of the course.
