What to do if something goes wrong

SIA has introduced a Code of Conduct for solicitors whose name appears in this guide. The Code is printed on the following pages.

If you believe a solicitor who you have dealt with has not followed the Code, complain to SIA. Even in the best firms, things can sometimes go wrong. If you are
unhappy about the way your case is being handled, you must
complain.

• First speak to your solicitor and ask for an explanation of the thing that is troubling you. Most complaints and misunderstandings can
be settled informally like this.

• If you want to take your complaint further, ask to see the firm’s own complaints procedure and get the name of the person you should contact.

• If an internal investigation doesn’t satisfy you, you can take your complaint to the Legal Complaints Service. If you need help in presenting your case to them, contact the SIA Advice Line or your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

• The Legal Ombudsman deals with complaints about the service provided by, and the conduct of, solicitors in England and Wales. They have the powers to investigate your case fully.

• The Solicitors Regulation Authority sets down the detailed rules that control the way solicitors practice in England and Wales and they have the power to take disciplinary action against a solicitor who breaches the rules.

Legal Complaints Services

Legal Ombudsman
Telephone Helpline: 0300 555 0333
www.legalombudsman.org.uk

Complaints against solicitors in Scotland:

Scottish Legal Complaints Commission
10-14 Waterloo Place
Edinburgh EH1 3EG
Telephone: 0131 528 5111
Email:
enquiries@scottishlegalcomplaints.org.uk
www.scottishlegalcomplaints.org.uk

Complaints against solicitors in Northern Ireland:

The Law Society of Northern Ireland
96 Victoria Street
Belfast BT1 3GN
Telephone: 028 9023 1614
www.lawsoc-ni.org