With tensions still bubbling between CILEX dissidents and leaders over royal charter changes, members have been reminded their social media use could potentially land them in regulatory hot water.

Dozens of unhappy members submitted another notice in February for a special general meeting to let them vote on their own proposed resolutions in relation to CILEX governance and decision-making. 

CILEX’s response to the proposed resolutions were listed as agenda items for an SGM held on 28 March. 'Increased focus on professional ethics’ was listed an agenda item.

A recording of the SGM was posted on the CILEX website this week.

CILEX chief executive Linda Ford told the meeeting that, across the sector, complaints and professional conduct cases concerning social media use had risen, so CILEX ‘wanted to take this opportunity to just refresh everyone’s mind as to what the obligations under the code [of conduct] are’.

Members were reminded that SRA professional guidance on the workplace environment applied to CILEX members working in SRA-regulated firms. CILEX members holding additional roles, such as judicial office or board appointments, are subject to those bodies’ codes of conduct and social media guidance. 

Ford said that as regulated professionals, the code of conduct applied '24/7' and members should be 'mindful' the code applied 'if you are using social media, if you are communicating in public forums, if you are engaging with the media, if you are attending events'.

Links to the code, and CRL and SRA guidance were posted in the chat section of the virtual SGM.

Ford said: ‘When you read this use of social media guidance, you will notice that what’s consistent across all of the different bodies who provide guidance on this is actually making sure that you are not endorsing views or expressing views, particularly on controversial matters, on political matters, on decision-making of public bodies and so on. These are all things to just flag and be mindful of.’

 

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