Reporting a lawyer or law firm to the sRA

Have you had a bad experience with a solicitor or law firm? Perhaps you’ve faced poor service, dishonesty, overcharging, or other behaviour that falls short of professional standards. If so, you may be able to report your concerns to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) - the body that regulates solicitors and law firms in England and Wales.

At LawFirmComplaints.co.uk, we’re committed to helping people understand their rights and options when dealing with rogue lawyers. Here’s how you can take action through the SRA.



What Does the SRA Do?

The SRA sets rules for how solicitors and law firms must behave. They can investigate solicitors who breach those rules and take action, including fines, restrictions on practice, or even removing a solicitor’s licence to work.

However, the SRA usually deals with serious misconduct rather than poor service alone. For example, you might report a solicitor if you suspect:

  • Dishonesty or fraud

  • Misuse of your money or trust funds

  • Serious breaches of confidentiality

  • Conflicts of interest

  • Discrimination or harassment

  • Criminal activity

  • Failure to comply with professional rules



When NOT to Report to the SRA

The SRA generally does not handle complaints about poor service, such as:

  • Delays in returning your calls

  • Not keeping you updated

  • Disagreements about the quality of service

  • Billing disputes

If your complaint is mainly about poor service or fees, you should first complain directly to the law firm. If you’re not satisfied, you may then escalate your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman, who handles complaints about service quality and costs.



How to Report to the SRA

If you believe your complaint involves serious misconduct, you can report it directly to the SRA. Here’s how:

  1. Gather Evidence – Keep all emails, letters, invoices, or records that support your concerns.

  2. Visit the SRA Website – Go to www.sra.org.uk and use their online report form.

  3. Provide Details – Include the solicitor’s or law firm’s name, details of what happened, and why you believe it’s serious misconduct.

  4. Submit Your Report – You can usually upload documents and evidence to support your report.



Need Help?

Reporting a solicitor can feel daunting, but you’re not alone. At LawFirmComplaints.co.uk, we’re here to help you understand the process and point you in the right direction.

If you’re unsure whether your issue is suitable for the SRA or the Legal Ombudsman, feel free to explore our resources or contact us for guidance.