Warning notices
Warning notices do not form part of the SRA Handbook, but we may have regard to them when exercising our regulatory functions.
The warning notices listed under the heading Pending review below were written and issued before the introduction of the SRA Handbook on 6 October 2011 and may refer to regulatory material that is no longer in effect. For further information, please contact our Professional Ethics helpline.
Recently issued
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Land banking schemes: Warning notice
Issued on 14 September 2012 — This warning notice is for anyone who is involved or who is considering acting for clients involved in the promotion or facilitation of investment schemes which involve selling plots of land to investors on the basis of prospective planning permission.Whilst this notice does not form part of the Solicitors Regulation Authority's (SRA) Handbook, the SRA may have regard to it when exercising its regulatory functions.
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Bogus law firms and identity theft: Warning notice
Issued on 26 March 2012 — There are serious and continuing risks to the public arising from the activities of criminals and criminal gangs who are setting up bogus law firms or bogus branch offices of genuine law firms with the intention, usually, of stealing mortgage loans. This warning provides information about the threat and advice about how to protect yourself and others from it.
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Stamp duty land tax schemes: Warning notice
Issued on 16 February 2012 — This warning notice is for anyone who is or is considering becoming involved in the promotion or facilitation of schemes the purpose of which is to avoid or reduce stamp duty land tax. We are particularly concerned with schemes involving residential properties, but this notice may be helpful in relation to schemes involving any type of property.