SRA announces changes to cut red tape and improve access

updated on 11 September 2015

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has approved a range of changes that aim to reduce administrative duplication, improve regulation and provide new ways to qualify as a solicitor.

The most significant change for would-be solicitors is the amendment of the Training Regulations to reflect the new Trailblazer apprenticeship route to qualification, which has recently been approved by the department for business, innovation and skills.

Other important changes include simplifying and updating:

  • compliance officer approval for small firms;
  • authorisation for alternative business structures (ABS); and
  • requirements for recording and reporting of diversity data.

SRA Chief Executive Paul Philip said: "Taken together, these changes are a significant reduction in red tape and bureaucracy, marking a step forward in freeing up firms and individuals to do business. They support small firms which are often stretched for time and resource, and they provide greater opportunity for a wider range of talented people than ever before to enter the profession."