We’re clearing web backlog, says SRA

The Solicitors Regulation Authority has apologised for delays to online practising certificate renewal as it starts to clear the backlog of applications.

For the first time, the SRA has replaced postal forms and cheques with web-based processes for both applications and payment. However, the automated system encountered initial problems with solicitors complaining that the system was slow or prone to errors.

With the deadline for renewals due next month, the SRA said today it has begun to outsource some calls to its contact centre and extended the opening hours.

Antony Townsend, chief executive, said: ‘We appreciate and apologise for the frustrations which the introduction of the system has caused.

‘The new system is transforming the way in which we deliver services to the profession and regulated individuals, leading to a system which will be cheaper and quicker than the old manual system, which was expensive to operate and slow.’

Three quarters of individuals on the roll have activated their mySRA accounts, with 42% of applications in progress, 25% submitted and 7.5% completed.

Firms and individuals whose whole names beginning with the letters A to D have until 13 February to renew. Those in the E-Z band have until 21 February.

Anyone failing to meet the renewal deadlines will trigger a revocation process, meaning they will receive 28 days' notice that the authority will revoke their permission to practise.

The contact centre is now operating between 8.30am and 5pm on Monday and Friday, 8.30am to 7pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and from 9am to 2pm on Saturday.

The new system means 90% of applications for an individual practising certificate can be assessed and granted automatically, with no manual intervention.