Solicitors Code of Conduct 2007: Including SRA Recognised Bodies Regulations 2009 2nd ed

Also Available - Companion to the the Solicitors' Code of Conduct 2007 2nd ed

The 2009 edition of the Solicitors’ Code of Conduct 2007 provides thorough coverage of changes made to the rules governing solicitors since publication of the first edition in 2007.

The code is issued by the Solicitors Regulation Authority as essential reading not only for every solicitor, but for all who wish to know the standards of service and conduct expected of solicitors. Key changes to the Code include substantial amendments to:

support firm-based regulation and LDPs, affecting:

• Rule 12 – Framework of practice
• Rule 14 – Recognised bodies (formerly Incorporated practice)
• Rule 20 – Requirements of practice.

ensure that the rules apply to all managers and employees in firms, affecting:

• Rule 5 – Business management in England and Wales
• Rule 7 – Publicity
• Rule 9 – Referrals of business.

In addition, the SRA Recognised Bodies Regulations 2009 came into force on 31st March 2009. New partnerships and LLPs are now required to apply for recognition before they can provide legal services. The regulations include coverage of the application process, conditions of recognition, renewal of recognition, and approval of a non-lawyer individual as suitable to be a ‘manager’.

The 2009 edition follows the format established by the 2007 edition, which substantially revised the rules and guidance. The standards are set out in the form of 25 mandatory rules. The core duties are set out in Rule 1. Each rule is accompanied by guidance which explains the rule and aids compliance.