SRA Update
In brief
SRA Update Issue 20 – September 2011
New procedure for information sent to the SRA
We have recently changed our guidelines to deal with how we handle information sent to us about lawyers and law firms that we regulate.
In the future, while we will continue to acknowledge every initial report of information, we will not always be able to provide updates to every person that contacts us. This will help us make best use of our resources. Find out more about the procedure.
Many of the decisions that we take as a result of regulatory action are available on our website: Check a solicitor's record.
SRA Stationery
You are reminded that your stationery needs to be updated to fall in line with the new Handbook requirements coming into force on 6 October this year. Outcome 8.5 of the Code says that you need to use the following wording on your letterheads, website and emails: "authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority" in place of the current wording, "regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority".
More information
For advice on implementing changes to your letterheads, website and emails, please go to www.sra.org.uk/askethics, and select Publicity from the list of options.
QLTS: First successes
The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS), aimed at strengthening the procedures for assessing internationally qualified lawyers and lawyers qualified in the UK seeking to practise as solicitors in England and Wales, has started to produce its first successes.
So far, nine of the 24 starting candidates have completed the three parts of the assessment since in it was introduced in February.
One of the successful candidates, Leopoldo Dal Bianco, from Argentina, said: "For foreign lawyers coming into the UK, it is a must. I believe most employers will view it well. It is a very thorough and demanding exam."
The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test (QLTT) will continue to be available until 2013 when the last QLTT certificates of eligibility will expire.
More information about QLTS