Professional Discipline of Solicitors in England

This Note begins with an examination of the disciplinary role of the Law Society, the solicitors’ most important organization, and of the Society’s attempt to prevent professional misconduct through regular financial audits and by providing advice to solicitors on questions of professional conduct and etiquette. It then describes the composition, function, and operation of the Disciplinary Tribunal, the statutorily created organization occupying the second level of the disciplinary system. Particular attention is directed toward recent statutory changes that provide for lay representation on the Tribunal. The Note concludes with a brief discussion of the appeals process and the procedures for reinstatement following an adverse ruling by the Disciplinary Tribunal.