Starting a practice guide
This guide is designed to help you start out on the right path by getting you to consider some of the main requirements and relevant points for starting and operating a legal practice in Scotland.
The type of practice you form will affect how your business operates and develops. Are you planning to operate as a sole practitioner, a traditional partnership, a limited liability partnership or a limited company? Speak to an accountant and a corporate solicitor before making your final decision and if you want to talk to us before setting up, please contact our professional practice team on 0131 226 8896.
Eligibility
Are you eligible to set up a new practice?
Business planning
A business plan will help to establish how your firm will operate
Finance and cashflow
Cashflow, banking arrangements, PAYE, VAT, Making Tax Digital, corporation and income tax and accountancy software
Compliance
Accounts Rules, Anti-money Laundering, Data Protection and Incidental Financial Business
Risk Management
Business continuity, Cyber and fraud, and professional risk
Insurance and client protection
Master Policy, additional cover and the Client Protection Fund
Legal Aid
If you intend to carry out civil and criminal legal aid including advice and assistance
Forms and practice options
All forms required for setting up a practice
FAQs
Your frequently asked questions
Pdf version
For a printable version of the full guide
Practice Management Course
A course for new and prospective partners covering leadership, business skills and legal responsibilities.
Additional
The Cashroom
Conference Exhibitor
Related Rule
See Rule D4