Commentary on Sections Schedule 5: Enhanced legal aid fees for certain solicitors Paragraph 3: Duties of solicitor
This paragraph sets out the duties of the solicitor where the client will be represented by an accredited solicitor. The solicitor is required to advise the client of the advantages and disadvantages of representation by an accredited solicitor and by counsel. The Law Society will make regulations outlining how this is to be done. The solicitor must inform a court or tribunal before which they are representing the client that they have given such advice. The solicitor must act in the best interest of the client and comply with any decision they make as to representation by an accredited solicitor or counsel. If the solicitor fails to comply with any of the duties in this paragraph any person make may a complaint against the solicitor to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.