Practising certificate holders
Holding a practising certificate entitles members to practise in all areas of the law in Scotland and to call themselves a solicitor. All solicitor members must observe our rules and our standards of conduct and agree to undertake a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year.
Members are entitled to a range of support services including CPD and training, automatic subscription to the Journal Magazine and the members benefits scheme, career advice and access to our professional practice helpline.
Admission is restricted to those who have the necessary qualifications and training and who have passed the necessary 'fit and proper' tests.
Membership entitlements
Holding a practising certificate with the Law Society of Scotland entitles members to:
- practice as a solicitor in Scotland
- be eligible to become
- a manager in a practice unit
- a notary public
- an accredited specialist and/or a solicitor advocate
- free entry in our Find A Solicitor tool on the website
- attend general meetings
- vote at general meetings
- vote for Council members
- stand for Council
- vote in referendums
Membership also includes:
- monthly copy of the Journal and other communications from the Law Society
- access to member support and services:
Practising certificate renewal
Find out more about renewing your practising certificate
Fees
For the full list of Law Society of Scotland fees.
CPD requirements
Find out more about what your CPD requirements are for the current and forthcoming practising year.
Notary Public
Only solicitors/notaries in possession of a practising certificate can act as notaries in Scotland.
Taking a career break or going on maternity leave?
Find out more about your options
Consumer credit
The incidental financial business (IFB) licence includes consumer credit activities.
For members
Find out about membership and fees, what services and benefits we offer as well as rules and guidance and information for different practice areas.