CLC seeks views on disciplinary changes

The Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) has initiated a consultation aimed at refining the rules that oversee disciplinary proceedings involving regulated practices and individuals. This review focuses on amendments to the procedural rules governing the independent Adjudication Panel's operations, which are designed to bolster clarity, consistency, and efficiency. It is important to note that these proposed changes are distinct from the rules related to the disciplinary and enforcement measures that the CLC itself can enforce.

The independent Adjudication Panel, funded by the CLC, comprises both professional and lay members, with current chair Nick Hawkins, a barrister and former Chief Crown Prosecutor, leading the panel. The panel holds significant authority, capable of imposing substantial sanctions, from fines to permanent disqualification.

Sheila Kumar, Chief Executive of the CLC, emphasised the role of the Adjudication Panel, stating, “The independent Adjudication Panel plays a central role in upholding standards across conveyancing and probate to protect the consumer and public interest.” She further noted that the ongoing efforts to maintain an effective framework for addressing any allegations of misconduct have revealed opportunities to enhance the clarity and scope of the current rules.

Nick Hawkins, chair of the Adjudication Panel, also encourages participation in the process: “I encourage anyone with an interest of the work of the Adjudication Panel to read the proposed changes and to provide comments.” The consultation invites responses for six weeks and will remain open until 11.45pm on Wednesday, 10 June. Interested parties can access the Consultation Paper, providing details about the rule changes, and submit their feedback online, via email to policy@clc-uk.org, or by post to the Policy Team, CLC at the specified London address.