Tony Guise says representation is as important as reputation
Des Hudson’s recent article, Reputation matters, clarified a number of issues regarding the regulation and discipline of the profession (see NLJ, 3 April 2009, p 488). It is, however, worth reflecting on some further issues. Schemes such as the Solicitors’ Assistance Scheme (SAS) and Law Care provide an invaluable service, but whether they can level a playing field dominated by a well resourced regulator is doubtful.
Help from the SAS
SAS panel members provide an hour’s free advice either by telephone or in person advising about regulatory matters, partnership, money laundering and other compliance related issues. Until the recent shake-up of the Law Society, after Sir David Clementi’s review of the regulatory framework for legal services in England and Wales, the scheme was financed by the Law Society. Recently, however, the SAS has suffered a swingeing cut in this support with only limited meeting expenses being provided by the Law Society.
SAS committee members provide a helpline and support network for solicitors facing professional crisis, however, the scheme’s resources are limited and, after that free
