CLC seeks views on proposed changes to enhance clarity in dealing with disciplinary matters

The Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) is consulting on proposed changes to the rules governing how disciplinary proceedings involving regulated practices and individuals are dealt with by its independent Adjudication Panel.

The consultation is seeking feedback on changes to the procedural rules that govern matters under the panel’s consideration, which the CLC says will enhance clarity, consistency and efficiency. These are separate from the rules governing disciplinary and enforcement measures that the CLC itself can impose.

The panel, which is funded by the CLC, but operates independently combines professional and lay members, and is currently chaired by Nick Hawkins, a barrister and former Chief Crown Prosecutor, has the power to impose significant sanctions ranging from fines to permanent disqualification.

Responses to the consultation will be taken into account before a revised set of rules is finalised and submitted to the Legal Services Board for approval.

Sheila Kumar, Chief Executive of the CLC, says:

“The independent Adjudication Panel plays a central role in upholding standards across conveyancing and probate to protect the consumer and public interest. As part of our ongoing work to maintain a robust and effective framework to address any allegations of misconduct against licensed practitioners, we have identified opportunities to further enhance the clarity and scope of the current Adjudication Panel rules.

“While the proposed amendments are largely technical, they are important in ensuring the rules remain clear, effective and fit for purpose in addressing issues relating to the constitution and procedure of panels.”

Chair of the independent Adjudication Panel, Nick Hawkins adds:

“I encourage anyone with an interest of the work of the Adjudication Panel to read the proposed changes and to provide comments.”

The Adjudication Panel Rules consultation will be open for six weeks until 11.45pm on Wednesday, 10 June.

The Consultation Paper provides detail about the rule changes and you can respond online here, by email to [email protected], or by post to The Policy Team, Council for Licensed Conveyancers, WeWork, 120 Moorgate, London, EC2M 6UR.

Kindly written by Council for Licensed Conveyancers Image courtesy of Adobe