Council for Licensed Conveyancers consults on updated Code of Conduct to reflect changing market

The Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) has opened a consultation with its regulated community as it proposes changes to its current Code of Conduct.

Last reviewed in 2006, the CLC is now consulting on a refreshed Code of Conduct, which has been simplified to improve clarity and reflect the significant changes to the practice of law and the societal context in which its firms operate.

The current Code of Conduct is part of the CLC’s Handbook that sets out requirements of the lawyers and entities that it regulates. The Handbook details the overarching standards of practice that are expected to ensure that client’s best interests are always served and protected.

This new version also reflects the outcome of the 2022 consultation on an updated set of Ethical Principles for CLC lawyers. Following this, the CLC’s Consumer Reference Group and governing Council reviewed the changes that would be required to the Code of Conduct. The result of that review is a reorganised, clarified, and updated document.

The Legal Services Act 2007 sets out nine regulatory objectives that all legal services regulators should meet. The updated Code of Conduct helps in the achievement of each of those nine objectives. The proposed Code of Conduct also now outlines the six updated Ethical Principles, with each accompanied by specific outcomes which that must be met.

Sheila Kumar, Chief Executive, said:

“Since its last review, the environment in which the CLC regulated community operates has changed enormously.

“We have seen very significant changes in communications, technology, and the rise of social media, which is also relevant to professional conduct.

“Through our assisted compliance approach, we have a clear insight into the evolving challenges and risks in the practice of conveyancing and probate.

“All of this is reflected in the revised Code.”

“Our aim is that the proposed new Code provides the guidance that is appropriate, necessary and proportionate for CLC-regulated providers of conveyancing and probate to continue to provide an excellent service to their clients.”

Following this consultation, a final version of the Code of Conduct will be prepared for approval by the Council of the CLC. The consultation can be accessed here and will run for eight weeks, closing on the 22 December 2023. Alternatively, respondents can respond via email to [email protected].

Kindly shared by The Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC)