SRA invites feedback on competence updates

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has launched a call for views regarding updates to the Statement of Solicitor Competence and the functioning legal knowledge (FLK). The Statement of Solicitor Competence outlines the expected standards for solicitors, while the FLK specifies the crucial legal principles and rules essential for Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) candidates. The public’s assurance in the competence of their legal representatives is vital whether they are engaging in property purchases, family disputes, business growth, or navigating civil and criminal cases.

This framework provides a foundation for that assurance. As highlighted by Beth Black, SRA Director of Education and Training, "Every day, people and businesses place their trust in solicitors, relying on them to provide expert advice, protect their interests, uphold their rights and help them navigate important decisions and challenges." She emphasised the importance of the competence statement by saying, "The Statement of Solicitor Competence is an important foundation for that confidence."

The legal landscape is constantly changing, influenced by technology, new service delivery methods, and emergent risks and opportunities. To ensure the competence statement remains relevant and reflective of modern practices, the SRA has proposed updates based on consultations with nearly 150 solicitors, law firms, educators, representatives, and academics. The eight-week consultation period will engage a broad range of stakeholders to refine the final updates.

Black further elaborated, "By keeping the framework up to date, we can help make sure it remains a practical and relevant tool for solicitors, employers and educators, while continuing to support the high standards and public confidence on which the profession depends."

The foundation of the current competence framework, established in April 2015, includes three critical sections: the Statement of Solicitor Competence, the Statement of Knowledge for functioning legal knowledge, and the Threshold Standard that defines competency levels. Areas under consideration for update include technological advancements, the role of AI, supervision practices, health and wellbeing, and professional conduct and ethics, along with potential modifications to the FLK for clarity or content adjustment.

This consultation is set to conclude on 3 December, with an aim to publish the newly revised competence statement and FLK by April, effective from September. The SRA looks forward to receiving diverse feedback to ensure the final framework is robust, clear, and prepared for future challenges in the legal profession.