Obtaining instructions

Question 1

Solicitor must publish specified information on costs if provides these specified services to individuals:

Answer 1

• residential conveyancing,
• uncontested probate,
• summary-only motoring offences,
• employment tribunals,
• immigration, except asylum applications

Question 2

Solicitor must publish specified information on costs if provides these specified services to businesses:

Answer 2

• debt recovery up to 100,000,
• employment tribunals,
• licensing applications for business premises

Question 3

The specified information on costs that must be provided if specified services are being provided:

Answer 3

• total cost/average cost,
• basis of charges,
• what’s included,
• whether VAT is payable,
• key stages of matter,
• experience of those working
  MUST be published on a prominent spot on website

Question 4

Can solicitors make unsolicited approaches to members of the public that may be unwelcome/intrusive?

Answer 4

No- but, can make approaches:
- to current/former clients,
- to the general public (if advert not targeted),
- to current/potential business clients

Question 5

How must an authorised body show it’s authorised?

Answer 5

Must prominently display SRA number and digital badge on website, email and letterhead

Question 6

Rules on referrals

Answer 6

• solicitor must inform client of any financial or other interest he has in referring the client to a 3rd party
• if a client is introduced to the solicitor, the introducer must’ve acquired the client as if regulated by the SRA
• cannot get paid for referrals/pay for introductions in criminal proceedings

Question 7

Rule on fee-sharing arrangements

Answer 7

Client must be informed of any fee-sharing arrangement relevant to their matter, and the arrangement must be recorded in writing

Question 8

When can a solicitor NOT pay/receive referral fees?

Answer 8

In claims for damages after personal injury/death, and any claims for damages arising from the same facts