Discussion papers

We encourage informal feedback and comments about SRA discussion papers. Please note that, when they are published, discussion papers are not the subject of a formal public consultation process. Please also see open consultations.

Protecting the public: our consumer protection review

We have launched a review of our overall approach to protecting consumers when they place their trust in a regulated law firm – our consumer protection review.

Published 5 February 2024
Feedback and comments by 1 July 2024

Next steps on the Solicitors Indemnity Fund (SIF) and consumer protection for negligence claims

This paper is an update for stakeholders on our work on future options to protect consumers who suffer loss from the negligence of a solicitor, but cannot claim under the law firm’s indemnity insurance because the firm has been closed for more than six years with no successor.

Published 3 August 2022
Feedback and comments by 31 August 2022

Responding to the FCA's regulation of the pre-paid funeral plan market

Through this discussion paper, we want to invite views on the impact of the FCA's regulation of the pre-paid funeral plan market on SRA-authorised firms and the options for meeting the statutory obligations placed on the SRA as a Designated Professional Body under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (FSMA). The responses we receive will help us to decide on the most appropriate approach.

Published 4 May 2022
Feedback and comments by 1 June 2022

Restricting fees for some claims management services

The purpose of this paper is to engage stakeholders and gather information we need to inform our proposals to meet the statutory duty placed on us in the Financial Guidance and Claims Act 2018 ('the Act'). The duty on us to make rules which prevent excessive fees being charged by law firms for all claims management agreements and claims management activities relating to financial products or services. You can also help inform our proposals by taking our survey.

Published 7 July 2021
Feedback and comments by 1 October 2021

Regulatory data and consumer choice in legal services

This paper considers what information the SRA should publish, and how it would publish information, on the individuals and firms it regulates to help consumers and firms make informed decisions.

Published 20 October 2016
Feedback and comments by 26 January 2017

Protecting client's financial interests

This paper sets out and seeks views on a number of possible options for reforming our Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) arrangements and for the Compensation Fund (CF).

Published 8 July 2015
Feedback and comments by 16 September 2015

The SRA and small firms

This paper seeks your feedback on initiatives we are taking to improve our relationship with small firms and sole practitioners.

Published 26 November 2014
Feedback and comments by 4 February 2015

Proposed ban on referral fees in personal injury cases

The purpose of this paper is to engage stakeholders in debate over how the SRA should implement the Legal Aid Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (LASPO) provisions on referral fees. The paper sets out our analysis of the issue and the potential effect on the sector. It also outlines our thinking on how the ban should be enforced in the context of risk based, outcomes-focused regulation.

Published 12 June 2012
Feedback and comments by 31 July 2012