The Solicitors' Code of Conduct

The Solicitors' Code of Conduct

Introduction

The Solicitors Code of Conduct was updated on 31 March 2009 providing a clearer picture of how the SRA will be monitoring compliance.

Under the Legal Services Act 2007 there is a major change in the approach to regulation and monitoring of firms by the SRA with the introduction of "entity-based" regulation which allows for both firms and employees to be brought before the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.

Rule 5 makes the effective running of the firm a matter of professional conduct requiring the firm to produce evidence of a 'systematic and effective approach to management'. It requires effective systems for supervision, risk management and delegation and expects that training will be provided to ensure the competence of all personnel to perform their duties.

Course Content

Introduction:

• The changing professional scene - the impact of the Legal Services Act.
• Changes in the SRA - powers and activities.
• Entity regulation - how does this change the compliance burden?

The Code of Conduct:

• The role of guidance
• Rule 2: costs and effectiveness
• Rule 3: conflicts - attempts at further reform
• Rule 4 - still unresolved.

Managing the Business:

• Supervisor and management of all staff
• Money laundering compliance issues
• Conflicts of interest
• Client care and costs
• Controlling undertakings
• Keeping documents safe
• Rule 6: what is in an Equality and Diversity policy?
• Training obligations - more than CPD!
• Business continuity
• Risk management.

Speakers

Stephen Madge is Head of Learning and Professional Development at a major international law firm. He has over 15 years experience of working with firms to assist them to achieve a wide range of business goals.

His style of training is extremely popular with delegates and focuses on the practical implications of the topic for the delegates.

Daniel Marland is a Corporate Finance Solicitor in the London office of Hammonds LLP. Having trained with Hammonds and worked in three of its European offices, Daniel has acquired a valuable insight into how an international legal practice should operate in order to provide a seamless service. Daniel's recent experience includes: advising on the disposal of Manchester City Limited to Abu Dhabi Group Investment & Development Limited; advising on the disposal of a world renowned marine engineering and consultancy firm for in excess of £100 million; and advising on the creation of an Industrial & Provident Society together with the creation of an operational website for social networking purposes. Daniel is also actively involved in other areas of the firm and assists the Learning & Professional Development Department in the presentation of courses on the Code of Conduct, Client Care and Networking.

Hazel Parker has many years experience as a Quality Auditor at a major law firm dealing with many aspects of Risk Management in law firms.