SRA Document Suggests Closer Status Between Solicitors and Legal Executives

The legal landscape in the UK is set to undergo a significant shift as solicitors and legal executives move closer in status and the standards expected of them, according to a recent document from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

CILEX, the representative body for legal executives, has announced plans to transfer regulation of its members from CILEx Regulation to the SRA after careful consideration of responses from both regulators. The move comes after CILEX presented its ‘case for change’ to the SRA, outlining the benefits of closer alignment between the two professions.

In a 10-page submission published by CILEX, the SRA pledged to maintain and promote the distinct identity of CILEX lawyers while ensuring they are held to the same standards as solicitors. This includes confirming that CILEX lawyers have the same competence as solicitors in areas where they have practising rights.

The SRA also plans to present the authorised CILEX lawyers register alongside the solicitors register to improve consumer understanding and choice. Additionally, the SRA aims to align the CILEX code of conduct with the standards that apply to solicitors, promoting consistency and simplifying regulation.

While investigation and enforcement processes will be similar to those for solicitors, annual reporting and accounting arrangements will be separate to ensure appropriate funding for the regulation of both solicitors and CILEX lawyers.

The consultation period for CILEX’s transfer to the SRA closes on 5 November, with any potential changes not taking place until at least April 2024. The SRA will also publish a consultation on the changes needed to accommodate CILEX members in the near future.

This move towards closer alignment between solicitors and legal executives marks a significant step in the evolution of the legal profession in the UK, with implications for both professionals and consumers alike.