Ethics 6: Providing Services to Public Flashcards
What must firms/solicitors do at beginning of retainer?
- Must identify client
- Inform clients of regulation
- whether and how the services are regulated
- how this effects protection available to client
- correctly represent that business or employer is regulated by the SRA (or not) - Ongoing information on matter
- make sure they understand and are in position to make informed decision about the services they need
4.. ongoing pricing and costs
- including likely overall cost
- likelihood of having to pay other sides legal fees
- Clients right to complain
- in writing
- how and to whom to complain
When and how must you inform client of their right to complain?
At beginning of retainer
- in writing
- how and to whom to complain
8 weeks following a complaint if not resolved to clients satisfaction
- in writing
- timeframe for complaining
- full details on how to contact
(if complaint procedure has been exhausted)
- than you cannot settle complain
- name and website of ADR approved body suited to deal with it
- whether you agree to se the scheme operated by that body
How must complaints be handled?
Promptly, fairly and free of charge
What are the limits on publicity for solicitors/firms
Must not be inaccurate or misleading
No targeted or intrusive unsolicited approaches
- no targeting of individuals
- BUT may approach current/former client s
When must pricing information be published on website?
For:
- residential conveyancing
- probate (uncontested)
- motoring offences (summary)
- immigration (not asylum)
- employment tribunals
- debt recovery (up to £100k)
- licensing applications
What service information must be included on firm website?
- what services are included for quoted price
- highlight any services not included which might reasonably be expected to be included
- include information on key stages and typical time scale
- publish qualifications and experience of anyone carrying on the work and of supervisors
