Our people
Q&A
Carol Parsons, Head of ATE at DAS
Name
Carol Parsons
Job title
Head of ATE at DAS
About your role
I have a really varied role with responsibility for our overall
ATE result, Sales and Account Management, Operations,
and technical delivery. Having moved across from heading
up DAS' BTE Operations almost two years ago, it has been
exciting to re-engage with a profession I left 8 years ago.
How is the industry changing?
Costs shifting has always been a consideration when
looking at how a case can be financed but with the ongoing
economic pressures it seems even more relevant now.
With the demise of legal aid, the recent changes to QOCs
and the increase seen in litigation costs it has become
more and more expensive for consumers to access justice.
Law firms are also feeling the pinch as the cost of borrowing
has risen and with those offering litigation funding, now
finding themselves in a market where several key players
have had to exit, there will be continued pressure on finding
the best way to finance a case.
Whilst Government is starting to recognise the benefit
that Legal Expenses Insurance can play in mitigating some
of these issues, it remains a little understood product and
a broader education campaign will be the only way that
consumers are likely to become familiar with the benefits.
The introduction of FRC later this year will continue to put
pressure on law firms to seek ways to maximise efficiencies
that enable fee earners to drive value with each interaction
on a file. The rapid development of AI presents both
opportunities and risks but ignore development in this
area at your peril. I am in no doubt that those who embrace
these opportunities, and with right governance in place,
will not only successfully navigate increasing consumer
demand, and in particular demand for a permanently
available culture, but will do so at a cost base significantly
lower than what we see now.
Favourite film
A Good Year.
Favourite album or song
Moon Dance, Van Morrison.
Favourite hobby
I have lots! Skiing has always been one of my biggest
passions. It's very humbling being in such spectacular
scenery and a great opportunity to practice some
mindfulness (I find it generally hurts if your mind wanders
too much!). Closer to home I enjoy being in the sea
either paddle boarding or surfing, often combined with
a weekend away in our 40-year-old VW camper along
with our Cockapoo Alfie. Coastal walks are also a firm
favourite. During lockdown I took up road cycling and find
that getting out into the countryside is a great way to
relax on weekends. I also enjoy cooking and entertaining -
I never know who might turn up for a spot of supper!
Meet the rest of the team Click to read more...
Name
Frances Clothier
Job title
Sales and Business
Development
Manager at DAS
frances.clothier@das.co.uk
Fran Clothier ATE
Name
Harvey Day
Job title
Sales and Business
Development
Manager at DAS
harvey.day@das.co.uk
Harvey Day ATE
Name
Simon Minty
Job title
Sales and Business
Development
Manager at DAS
simon.minty@das.co.uk
Simon Minty ATE
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EvaluATE | Issue 1