UK law firms are increasingly embracing AI, with over a quarter already utilizing some form of AI and nearly half actively exploring its integration. AI’s appeal lies in its potential to enhance efficiency, particularly in contract writing, accessing case law, and reviewing precedents. However, concerns about risks associated with AI integration exist among one-third of…
Solicitors Regulation Authority of England and Wales issues first fines of new fixed penalty regime
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has issued £750 fines to seven law firms for non-compliance with its transparency rules. This follows similar penalties issued to three firms in November 2023. The SRA introduced fixed penalties to deal with non-complex breaches more efficiently. Firms are given notices of potential fines and the opportunity to rectify the…
The Legal Services Consumer Panel voices concern about lack of implementation of key recommendations of a 2016 Competition and Markets Authority review of the legal services market
The Legal Services Consumer Panel of England and Wales has expressed concern over the slow implementation of quality indicators in the legal services market, as recommended by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in 2016. Despite some progress on price transparency and service information, the Panel notes that very little has been done to ensure…
Bar Standards Board of England and Wales issues consultation to improve consumer protection
The Bar Standards Board (BSB) is set to expand its powers to protect the public by introducing rule changes following a consultation. The proposed changes involve giving the Disciplinary Tribunal the authority to impose interim restrictions on a barrister’s practising certificate or withdraw practising rights on an interim basis when a finding of misconduct has…
The Legal Services Board of England and Wales launches consultation on consumer-focused regulation
The Legal Services Board (LSB) has initiated a consultation on its draft business plan and budget for 2024/25, aiming to enhance regulation’s role in shaping a legal services market aligned with societal needs. The plan focuses on strengthening direct oversight of regulators, ensuring their effective performance and resilience in conducting regulatory reviews. Anticipating resource demands,…
Solicitors Regulation Authority report looks at the risks and opportunities of AI in the law
A recently published report in the Risk Outlook series sheds light on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) within the legal services sector. The document underscores potential opportunities, such as the streamlining of administrative tasks through AI, enabling firms to allocate resources more efficiently for intricate assignments. Automation, in this context, offers cost reduction…
The Bar Standards Board of England and Wales discusses the use of ChatGPT in court
The Bar Standards Board of England and Wales has discussed the use of ChatGPT in court in a new blog. AI and advanced digital technologies are changing legal practice, with firms implementing digital transformation opportunities and barristers engaging in virtual consultations and hearings. The Legal Services Board, the oversight regulator, promotes technology and innovation to…
Bar Standards Board of England and Wales publishes guidance for barristers in non-professional life, especially the use of social media
The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has approved new guidance, including revised Social Media Guidance and new Guidance on the Regulation of Non-Professional Conduct. The aim is to clarify the regulatory boundaries for barristers’ conduct outside their professional practice, which can impact public confidence in the profession. The BSB Handbook states that barristers must not behave…
The Solicitors Regulation Authority of England and Wales has taken over the management of the Solicitors Indemnity Fund
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has taken over management of the Solicitors Indemnity Fund (SIF) to ensure future consumer protection for post six-year negligence claims. The new arrangements came into effect on 1 October 2023. The SRA-run scheme will provide ongoing protection for clients and ensure efficient and effective operation. A new claim form with…
Group of regulators and representative bodies join UK government’s taskforce aiming to clamp down on strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPS)
A group of regulators, including the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Bar Standards Board, Law Society and Bar Council have joined a UK government taskforce formed to address strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) and protect public interest journalism. The taskforce includes legal regulators, representative bodies, media organizations, and free speech organizations. It aims to commission research…