Client Information, Publicity and Transparency

Question 1

In what way should you give clients information?

Answer 1

In a way that clients understand so they can make an informed decision about the services they need, how the matter will be handled and the options available to them.

Question 2

What information must be given to clients regarding costs?

Answer 2

• costs need to be transparent
• how much you are likely going to charge a client
• how they will be charged (fixed fee/hourly)

Question 3

When should clients receive information about costs?

Answer 3

At time of engagement

Ongoing obligation, so client should be informed if original cost estimate is no longer accurate

Question 4

What is the SRA’s main concern in relation to publicity by law firms?

Answer 4

That any publicity is not misleading

Question 5

What is publicity?

Answer 5

It includes

• all promotional material and activity
• name and description of firm
• stationery
• advertisements
• brochures
• websites
• directory entries
• media appearances
• promotional press releases
• direct approaches to clients and others

Does not include:

• press releases on behalf of clients

Question 6

Are solicitors allowed to make unsolicited approaches on members of the public?

Answer 6

No

Allowable if current or former client

Question 7

What types of publicity would not be allowed by solicitors because it is unsolicited?

Answer 7

Approaching people:

• in the street
• at ports of entry to the UK
• at hospitals
• at the scene of the accident

Question 8

What information do the SRA require firms and solicitors be transparent about?

Answer 8

• Costs

And

• regulatory information

Question 9

What transparency is required in relation to costs?

Answer 9

Firms must publish certain cost information on their websites

These relate to costs for

• conveyancing of residential property
• executry work
• immigration applications
• immigration matters
• road traffic offences
• certain advice to employees/employers for unfair and wrongful dismissal
• debt advice for businesses up to £100,000
• advice to businesses in relation to licensing applications

Question 10

What transparency is required in relation to regulatory information?

Answer 10

Must display SRA number and digital badge on website

Must display SRA number and ‘authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority’ on letterhead and emails