solicitors

Question 1

Who is a client’s first point of contact?

Answer 1

Solicitor (usually)

Question 2

Who are solicitors controlled by?

Answer 2

The Law Society

Question 3

Role of solicitors

Answer 3

1. Provide legal advice
2. Take witness statements
3. Draft wills
4. Advocacy work
5. Consult barristers on complex cases
6. Negotiate for clients
7. Draw up contracts
8. Brief barristers if the case goes to court

Question 4

What courts can a solicitor advocate in?

Answer 4

Magistrates and County without a certificate of advocacy

Question 5

What act allows solicitors to advocate in higher courts with a certificate of advocacy?

Answer 5

Access to justice Act 1999 and Courts and Legal Services Act 1990

Question 6

Who deals with solicitor complaints?

Answer 6

SRA (Solicitor Regulation Authority)

Question 7

Complaints

Answer 7

1. The complaint goes to the firm and they have 28 days to respond. If unhappy the proceed…
2. The complaint is then taken to the SRA who will fine, reprimand, warn or strike off the solicitor.
3. The complaint is then taken to the Solicitors disciplinary Tribunal who will have Professional Misconduct complaints sent from the SRA
4. The Legal Ombudsman who will appeal the SRA decision