Section E: General Guidance

Standards of service are based on broad principles recognising the range and variety of work which can be undertaken by a solicitor.

Who owns what in files? The answer is not entirely straightforward and, drawing on the opinion of Counsel, the Society has produced this guidance which we hope will deal with the main queries which arise

The Opinion of Senior Counsel regarding requests by lenders or their solicitors for copies of files.

When a solicitor takes control of files from another solicitor for any reason and in any situation (including but not limited to receipt of files either in implement of a Mandate or where files are taken over from a ceased practice) the solicitor receiving the files should keep a record of all the files received.

Electronic storage of files may be a practical way of dealing with storage.

Where a solicitor is asked to lend titles or other documents to another solicitor a fee may properly be charged for such lending to cover both the delivery and return of the documents

Outsourcing – practical considerations and case studies

Cloud systems may provide an alternative means of storing and processing data.

Information for the profession on the use of social media

The form in which a solicitor presents a business account is a matter for the solicitor's personal preference but if the person liable to pay requires details, the solicitor must give a narrative or summary sufficient to indicate the nature and the extent of the work done.

Guidance on approval by beneficiaries of a final accounting before distribution and settlement

Referral of clients for financial advice from 1 January 2013

Outsourcing of (1) business operational functions such as HR, payroll and Cashroom and (2) aspects of legal service provision such as legal research and document production

This guidance, together with examples has been produced to promote price transparency and encourage practice units to proactively take steps to publish price information in a way that is easily accessible, prominent and understandable for consumers.