What we do

Setting standards for solicitors

Our aim is to give the public full confidence in the solicitors' profession.

We set the standards for qualifying as a solicitor.
We monitor the performance of organisations that provide legal training.
We draft the rules of professional conduct, particularly to make sure they protect the interests of clients.
We provide authoritative guidance and rules to solicitors on ethical issues, laws and regulations that affect solicitors' work.
We administer the roll (register) of solicitors.
We provide information to the public about solicitors, their work and the standards the public is entitled to expect.
We set requirements for solicitors' continuing professional development.

Our aim is serve the public interest and protect consumers of legal services.

We monitor solicitors and their firms to make sure they are complying with the rules.
We exchange information with other regulators and law enforcement agencies in order to protect the public.
We investigate concerns about solicitors' standards of practice and compliance with the rules, where necessary taking regulatory action such as reprimanding the solicitor.
When necessary, we close down solicitors' firms so as to protect clients and the wider public, and returning papers and monies to their owners.
We refer solicitors to the independent Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal and deal with the prosecutions.
We run a compensation fund to help people who have lost money as a result of a solicitor's dishonesty or failure to account for money they have received.

To ensure we achieve our aims, we work with those who monitor our performance, such as the Legal Services Board.

In all of our work, we consult widely with the public, consumer groups, solicitors and other legal professionals, and government.