It would be unjust if unfounded and malicious complaints against solicitors were also to be recorded and made public (see (2006) Gazette, 7 September, 1). Are solicitors to be subject to a system of 'enhanced disclosure' similar to that which applies in respect of persons found not guilty or not prosecuted after investigation in criminal cases? Why should an innocent firm suffer the potential loss of clients who, on seeking a suitable firm to represent them, see such complaints recorded and apply the 'no smoke without fire' approach and instruct another firm?

If it is indeed to represent the interests of the members of the profession, it would be for the representation side of the Law Society to fight against such a proposal, not merely 'to remind of the need to be fair to all sides'.


I am sure I can speak for many members of the profession who have doubts about the likely effectiveness of the representative side of the Law Society, and are now of the view that the time is perhaps right for the profession to be represented by a truly independent body similar to the British Medical Association.


Patrick Andrews, Durham