Every solicitor in England and Wales works under a set of seven overarching ethical standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. They sit at the very top of the regulatory framework: every other rule is read in light of them, and they govern your conduct both at your desk and in your personal life. Getting them right is not optional — they define what it means to be trusted with the title of solicitor, and breaching them can cost you your career.
This lesson takes you through the Principles one step at a time, from what they are to what happens when they're broken.
- Nature and Scope — what the Principles are, who they bind, and why they apply at all times.
- The Seven Principles — the seven obligations, how they relate to the detailed Codes, and which prevails in a conflict.
- Honesty and Integrity — the difference between the two, and the test for dishonesty.
- Independence and Best Interests — keeping your judgement free and putting each client first.
- Rule of Law and the Court — why your duty to the court outranks your client's wishes.
- Public Trust and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion — protecting confidence in the profession and the positive duty to promote inclusion.
- Reporting and Compliance — your duty to report breaches, cooperate with the SRA, and the role of compliance officers.
- Enforcement and Sanctions — how breaches are proved and the penalties that follow, including striking off.