News releases

Date announced for new code of conduct

19 March 2007

The new Solicitors' Code of Conduct will come into force on 1 July 2007. The announcement was made by the Solicitors Regulation Authority today following final ministerial approval.

The profession has just over three months to get ready for the new code, which replaces the Guide to the Professional Conduct of Solicitors.

The new code has a simplified structure of 25 rules with non-mandatory guidance.

"We hope that solicitors and consumers will welcome the direct language and clear structure used in the code. In the run up to the introduction, it is particularly important for firms to get familiar with the changes to business management. There will be a high level of responsibility placed on principals for the effective management of their firms", said Peter Williamson, chair of the Solicitors Regulation Authority Board.

"We want to encourage solicitors to use the code online, which is a free service which will enable everyone to consult a regularly updated copy of the code. We will be announcing shortly arrangements for publication of hard copies", said Mr Williamson.

The code is available online at rules.sra.org.uk.