The Law Society has published guidance on how solicitors should adapt to the new continuing professional development scheme.

The updated learning regime, called ‘continuing competence’, was introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in April 2015.

The Law Society guidance has been issued in the form of frequently asked questions to help solicitors comply with the new requirements.

Under the new system there is no obligation for solicitors to attend accredited courses or to complete a set number of CPD hours.

Solicitors will be required to meet their regulatory obligation to provide a proper standard of service by regularly reflecting on their practice, and implementing a programme of individual learning and development.

Practitioners need to transition to the new scheme before 1 November 2016.

Law Society president Jonathan Smithers (pictured) said: ‘Our members want quick access to the facts and this collection of valuable information will the help solicitors adopt and comply with this change in the regulatory regime.

‘We offer a wide range of learning and development events, webinars and practice notes to help members meet the new requirements and serve clients well.’