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Legal Services Act 2007

Type Public General Act

Publication 2007-10-30

Last updated 2025-01-01

State In force

Department Statute Law Database

Source legislation.gov.uk

articles Not indexed

Reform history JSON API

In paragraph 9 of that Schedule (restriction on employment of person struck off roll or suspended)—

(a) the existing provision becomes sub-paragraph (1) and in that sub-paragraph after “recognised body” insert “ (and any manager or employee of it) ”, and

(b) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(2) No recognised body (or manager or employee of such a body) may, except in accordance with a written permission granted by the Society under this paragraph, permit a person to whom sub-paragraph (3) applies to— (a) be a manager of the body, or (b) have an interest in the body; and for this purpose a person has an interest in the body if he has an interest in the body within the meaning of Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 72 and 109 of that Act). (3) This sub-paragraph applies to a person who to the knowledge of the recognised body (or, as the case may be, the manager or employee) is a person— (a) who is disqualified from practising as a solicitor by reason of one of the facts mentioned in section 41(1)(a), (b) or (c) of the 1974 Act (name struck off the roll, suspension etc), or (b) in respect of whom there is a direction in force under section 47(2)(g) of that Act (prohibition on restoration to roll). (4) Permission granted for the purposes of sub-paragraph (2) may be granted for such period and subject to such conditions as the Society thinks fit. (5) A person aggrieved by the refusal of the Society to grant permission under sub-paragraph (4), or by any conditions attached by the Society to the grant of any such permission may appeal to the High Court which may— (a) confirm the refusal or the conditions, as the case may be, or (b) grant a permission under this paragraph for such period and subject to such conditions as it thinks fit. (6) In relation to an appeal under sub-paragraph (5) the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit as to payment of costs. (7) The decision of the High Court on an appeal under sub-paragraph (5) is final.

97

In paragraph 10 of that Schedule (failure to disclose striking off or suspension)—

(a) the existing paragraph becomes sub-paragraph (1) of that paragraph,

(b) in that sub-paragraph after “recognised body” insert “ (or any manager or employee of such a body) ”, and

(2) It is an offence for a person (“P”) to whom sub-paragraph (3) applies— (a) to seek or accept from any person an interest in a recognised body, without previously informing that person (and, if different, the recognised body) that P is a person to whom that sub-paragraph applies, or (b) to seek or accept a position as a manager of a recognised body, without previously informing that body that P is such a person. (3) This sub-paragraph applies to a person— (a) who is disqualified from practising as a solicitor by reason of one of the facts mentioned in section 41(1)(a), (b) or (c) of the 1974 Act (name struck off the roll, suspension etc), or (b) in respect of whom there is a direction in force under section 47(2)(g) of that Act (prohibition on restoration to roll). (4) A person guilty of an offence under sub-paragraph (2) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale. (5) Subsection (2) of section 42 of the 1974 Act applies in relation to an offence under sub-paragraph (2) as it applies in relation to an offence under that section. (6) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(a) a person seeks or accepts an interest in a recognised body if the person seeks or accepts an interest which if it were obtained by the person would result in the person having an interest in that body within the meaning of Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 72 and 109 of that Act).

98

Omit paragraph 11 of that Schedule (control of employment of persons convicted of offences of dishonesty and certain other persons).

99

Omit paragraph 12 of that Schedule (offences in connection with orders under section 43(2) of the 1974 Act).

100

Omit paragraph 13 of that Schedule (redress for inadequate professional services).

101

For paragraph 14 of that Schedule (examination of files) substitute—

(14) (1) The Society may give a notice under this paragraph if it is satisfied that it is necessary to do so for the purpose of investigating whether— (a) a recognised body continues to be suitable to be recognised under section 9, or (b) a manager of a recognised body who is not legally qualified (within the meaning of section 9A) continues to be suitable to be a manager of a recognised body. (2) A notice under this paragraph is a notice which requires a person within sub-paragraph (3)— (a) to provide information, or information of a description, specified in the notice, or (b) to produce documents, or documents of a description, specified in the notice. (3) The persons are— (a) the recognised body; (b) an employee or manager of the recognised body; (c) a person who has an interest in the recognised body (within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 72 and 109 of that Act)). (4) For the purposes of this paragraph, section 44B(4) to (7) of the 1974 Act applies— (a) in relation to a notice under this paragraph as if it were a notice under section 44B of that Act, and (b) in relation to a person given a notice under this paragraph as if that person were a person given a notice under that section, and references in subsections (6) and (7) of that section to powers conferred by that section are to be read as references to powers conferred by this paragraph. (5) Where powers conferred by Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the 1974 Act are exercisable in relation to a person within paragraph (a), (b) or (c) of sub-paragraph (3), they continue to be so exercisable after the person has ceased to be a person within the paragraph in question. (6) Section 44BA of the 1974 Act (power to require explanation of document or information) applies in relation to a notice under this paragraph and the person to whom such a notice is given as it applies in relation to a notice under section 44B of the 1974 Act and the person to whom such a notice is given. (7) Subsection (1) of section 44BC of that Act (falsification of documents etc) applies in relation to an investigation of the kind mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) as it applies in relation to the investigations mentioned in that subsection, and subsections (2), (4) and (5) of that section apply accordingly. (8) Subsection (3) of that section (provision of false information etc) applies in relation to a requirement imposed under this paragraph as it applies in relation to a requirement imposed by section 44B of that Act, and subsections (4) and (5) of that section apply accordingly.

102

For paragraph 14A of that Schedule (payment of costs of investigations) substitute—

(14A) (1) The Society may make regulations prescribing charges to be paid to the Society by recognised bodies who are the subject of a discipline investigation. (2) A discipline investigation is an investigation carried out by the Society into a failure or apprehended failure by a recognised body to comply with any requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act or any rules applicable to it by virtue of section 9. (3) Regulations under this paragraph may— (a) make different provision for different cases or purposes; (b) provide for the whole or part of a charge payable under the regulations to be repaid in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the regulations. (4) Any charge which a recognised body is required to pay under regulations under this paragraph is recoverable by the Society as a debt due to the Society from the recognised body. (5) This paragraph applies in relation to a manager or employee of a recognised body as it applies in relation to a recognised body.

103

After that paragraph insert—

(14B) (1) This paragraph applies where the Society is satisfied that a recognised body, or a manager or employee of a recognised body, has failed to comply with a requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act or any rules applicable to that person by virtue of section 9 of this Act. (2) The Society may do one or both of the following— (a) give the person a written rebuke; (b) direct the person to pay a penalty not exceeding £2,000. (3) The Society may publish details of any action it has taken under sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (b), if it considers it to be in the public interest to do so. (4) Where the Society takes action against a person under sub-paragraph (2)(b), or decides to publish under sub-paragraph (3) details of such action under sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (b), it must notify the person in writing that it has done so. (5) A penalty imposed under sub-paragraph (2)(b) does not become payable until— (a) the end of the period during which an appeal against the decision to impose the penalty, or the amount of the penalty, may be made under paragraph 14C, or (b) if such an appeal is made, such time as it is determined or withdrawn. (6) The Society may not publish under sub-paragraph (3) details of any action under sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (b)— (a) during the period within which an appeal against— (i) the decision to take the action, (ii) in the case of action under sub-paragraph (2)(b), the amount of the penalty, or (iii) the decision to publish the details, may be made under paragraph 14C, or (b) if such an appeal has been made, until such time as it is determined or withdrawn. (7) The Society must make rules— (a) prescribing the circumstances in which the Society may decide to take action under sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (b); (b) about the practice and procedure to be followed by the Society in relation to such action; (c) governing the publication under sub-paragraph (3) of details of action taken under sub-paragraph (2)(a) or (b); and the Society may make such other rules in connection with the exercise of its powers under this paragraph as it considers appropriate. (8) Before making rules under sub-paragraph (7), the Society must consult the Tribunal. (9) A penalty under this paragraph may be recovered as a debt due to the Society, and is to be forfeited to Her Majesty. (10) The Lord Chancellor may, by order, amend paragraph (b) of sub-paragraph (2) so as to substitute for the amount for the time being specified in that paragraph such other amount as may be specified in the order. (11) Before making an order under sub-paragraph (10), the Lord Chancellor must consult the Society. (12) An order under sub-paragraph (10) is to be made by statutory instrument subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament. (13) This paragraph is without prejudice to any power conferred on the Society, or any other person, to make an application or complaint to the Tribunal. (14C) (1) A person may appeal against— (a) a decision by the Society to rebuke that person under paragraph 14B(2)(a) if a decision is also made to publish details of the rebuke; (b) a decision by the Society to impose a penalty on that person under paragraph 14B(2)(b) or the amount of that penalty; (c) a decision by the Society to publish under paragraph 14B(3) details of any action taken against that person under paragraph 14B(2)(a) or (b). (2) Subsections (9)(b), (10)(a) and (b), (11) and (12) of section 46 of the 1974 Act (Tribunal rules about procedure for hearings etc) apply in relation to appeals under this paragraph as they apply in relation to applications or complaints, except that subsection (11) of that section is to be read as if for “the applicant” to “application)” there were substituted “ any party to the appeal ”. (3) Rules under section 46(9)(b) of the 1974 Act may, in particular, make provision about the period during which an appeal under this paragraph may be made. (4) On an appeal under this paragraph, the Tribunal has power to make an order which— (a) affirms the decision of the Society; (b) revokes the decision of the Society; (c) in the case of a penalty imposed under paragraph 14B(2)(b), varies the amount of the penalty; (d) in the case of a recognised body, contains provision for any of the matters mentioned in paragraph 18(2); (e) in the case of a manager or employee of a recognised body, contains provision for any of the matters mentioned in paragraph 18A(2); (f) makes such provision as the Tribunal thinks fit as to payment of costs. (5) Where, by virtue of sub-paragraph (4)(e), an order contains provision for any of the matters mentioned in sub-paragraph (2)(c) of paragraph 18A, sub-paragraphs (5) and (6) of that paragraph apply as if the order had been made under sub-paragraph (2)(c) of that paragraph. (6) An appeal from the Tribunal shall lie to the High Court, at the instance of the Society or the person in respect of whom the order of the Tribunal was made. (7) The High Court shall have power to make such order on an appeal under this paragraph as it may think fit. (8) Any decision of the High Court on an appeal under this section shall be final. (9) This paragraph is without prejudice to any power conferred on the Tribunal in connection with an application or complaint made to it.

104

In paragraph 16 of that Schedule (complaints to Tribunal with respect to recognised bodies)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1), in paragraph (a) omit “in the United Kingdom”,

(b) in paragraph (b) of that sub-paragraph for “section 34 of the 1974 Act” substitute “ any requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act ”,

(c) a complaint that the body has acted in contravention of section 41 of the 1974 Act or paragraph 9(2) of this Schedule or of any conditions subject to which a permission has been granted under section 41 of that Act or that paragraph of this Schedule; or

, and

(d) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(1A) The Tribunal shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine any of the following complaints made to it under this paragraph with respect to a manager or employee of a recognised body (“the relevant person”)— (a) a complaint that the relevant person has been convicted by any court of a criminal offence which renders that person unsuitable to be a manager or employee (or both) of a recognised body; (b) a complaint that the relevant person has failed to comply with any requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act or any rules applicable to the relevant person by virtue of section 9 of this Act; (c) a complaint that the relevant person has acted in contravention of section 41 of the 1974 Act or paragraph 9(2) of this Schedule or of any conditions subject to which a permission has been granted under that section or for the purposes of paragraph 9(2) of this Schedule; (d) a complaint that the relevant person has knowingly acted in contravention of an order under section 43(2) of the 1974 Act or of any conditions subject to which a permission has been granted under such an order.

105

In paragraph 17 of that Schedule (procedure on applications and complaints)—

(a) for “(7)” substitute “ (9) ”,

(b) in paragraph (a)—

(i) omit “11(1), 15(2) or”,

(ii) omit “13(3) or”, and

(iii) after “16(1)” insert “ or (1A) ”, and

(c) in paragraph (c) after “body” insert “ or, in the case of such a complaint as is mentioned in paragraph 16(1A), to a manager or employee of such a body ”.

106

In paragraph 18 of that Schedule (powers of Tribunal with respect to recognised bodies)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) after “this Schedule” insert “ (other than paragraph 16(1A) ”,

(b) in paragraph (b) of that sub-paragraph for “section 34 of the 1974 Act” substitute “ any requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act ”,

(d) in sub-paragraph (2) omit “not exceeding £3,000”, and

(e) omit sub-paragraphs (3) and (4).

107

After that paragraph insert—

(18A) (1) Where, on the hearing of any complaint made to it under paragraph 16(1A) of this Schedule, the Tribunal is satisfied that a manager or employee of a recognised body— (a) has been convicted as mentioned in paragraph (a) of paragraph 16(1A), (b) has failed to comply with any requirement imposed by or by virtue of this Act or any rules applicable to the relevant person by virtue of section 9 of this Act, or (c) has acted as mentioned in paragraph (c) or (d) of paragraph 16(1A), the Tribunal may, if it thinks fit, make one or more of the orders referred to in sub-paragraph (2). (2) Those orders are— (a) an order directing the payment by the relevant person of a penalty to be forfeited to Her Majesty; (b) an order requiring the Society to consider taking such steps as the Tribunal may specify in relation to the relevant person; (c) if the person is not a solicitor, an order which states one or more of the matters mentioned in sub-paragraph (3); (d) an order requiring the Society to refer to an appropriate regulator any matter relating to the conduct of the relevant person. (3) The matters referred to in sub-paragraph (2)(c) are— (a) that as from the specified date— (i) no solicitor or employee of a solicitor shall employ or remunerate, in connection with the practice carried on by that solicitor, the person with respect to whom the order is made, and (ii) no recognised body, or manager or employee of such a body, shall employ or remunerate that person, in connection with the business of the recognised body, except in accordance with a Society permission; (b) that as from the specified date no recognised body or manager or employee of such a body shall, except in accordance with a Society permission, permit the person with respect to whom the order is made to be a manager of the body; (c) that as from the specified date no recognised body or manager or employee of such a body shall, except in accordance with a Society permission, permit the person with respect to whom the order is made to have an interest in the body. (4) For this purpose a person has an interest in a body if the person has an interest in the body within the meaning of Part 5 the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 72 and 109 of that Act). (5) Subsections (1) to (1C), (3) and (4) of section 44 of the 1974 Act (offences in connection with orders under section 43(2) of that Act) apply in relation to an order under sub-paragraph (2)(c) as they apply in relation to an order under section 43(2) of that Act, except that references in those subsections to provision within section 43(2)(a), (b) or (c) of that Act are to be read as references to provision within sub-paragraph (3)(a), (b) or (c). (6) Section 44(2) of the 1974 Act, paragraph 16(1)(d) and (1A)(d) of this Schedule and paragraph 15(3A) of Schedule 14 to the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990 apply in relation to an order under sub-paragraph (2)(c) as they apply in relation to an order under section 43(2) of the 1974 Act. (7) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(d) an “appropriate regulator” in relation to the relevant person means— (a) if the person is an authorised person in relation to a reserved legal activity for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007, any relevant approved regulator (within the meaning of that Act) in relation to that person, and (b) if the person carries on activities which are not reserved legal activities, any body which regulates the carrying on of such activities by the person.

108

In paragraph 20 of that Schedule (powers of Tribunal in respect of legal aid complaints), in sub-paragraph (1)—

(a) for “an officer” substitute “ a manager ”,

(b) for “director” substitute “ manager ”, and

and omit sub-paragraph (2).

109

In paragraph 21 of that Schedule (revocation of recognition by reason of default by director)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1), in paragraph (a) for “director” substitute “ manager ”,

(b) in paragraph (b) of that sub-paragraph for “director” (in both places) substitute “ manager ”,

(d) in sub-paragraph (3) for “director” (in both places) substitute “ manager ”, and

(e) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(4) The reference in paragraph (c) of sub-paragraph (1) to a person employed by a recognised body includes a reference to a person who was so employed at the time of the conduct leading to the making of the order referred to in that paragraph.

110

In paragraph 23 (orders as to remuneration for non-contentious business)—

(a) the existing provision becomes sub-paragraph (1) of that paragraph,

(b) in that sub-paragraph for “regulating (in accordance with paragraph 22)” substitute “ prescribing (by virtue of paragraph 22) general principles to be applied when determining ”,

(b) in paragraph (d), the reference to the solicitor or any employee of the solicitor who is an authorised person were a reference to any manager or employee of the recognised body who is an authorised person.

, and

(d) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(2) In this paragraph “authorised person” means a person who is an authorised person in relation to an activity which is a reserved legal activity, within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see section 18 of that Act).

111

For paragraph 24 of that Schedule (effect of contentious business agreements) substitute—

(24) (1) This paragraph applies in relation to a contentious business agreement made between a recognised body and a client. (2) A provision in the agreement that the body shall not be liable for the negligence of any of its managers or employees shall be void if the client is a natural person who, in entering that agreement, is acting for purposes which are outside his trade, business or profession. (3) A provision in the agreement that the body shall be relieved from any responsibility to which it would otherwise be subject in the course of carrying on its business as a recognised body shall be void. (4) A provision in the agreement that any manager of the body shall be relieved from any responsibility to which the manager would otherwise be subject in the course of the carrying on by the body of its business as a recognised body shall be void.

112

In paragraph 25 of that Schedule (effect of supervening incapacity on contentious business agreements)—

(a) for sub-paragraph (1)(b) substitute—

(b) a relevant insolvency event occurs in relation to the body;

(b) in sub-paragraphs (2) and (3)—

(i) for “taxation” (in each place) substitute “ assessment ”, and

(ii) for “taxing officer” (in each place) substitute “ costs officer ”,

(d) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(4) For the purposes of this paragraph a relevant insolvency event occurs in relation to a recognised body if— (a) a resolution for a voluntary winding-up of the body is passed without a declaration of solvency under section 89 of the Insolvency Act 1986; (b) the body enters administration within the meaning of paragraph 1(2)(b) of Schedule B1 to that Act; (c) an administrative receiver within the meaning of section 251 of that Act is appointed; (d) a meeting of creditors is held in relation to the body under section 95 of that Act (creditors' meeting which has the effect of converting a members' voluntary winding up into a creditors' voluntary winding up); (e) an order for the winding up of the body is made.

113

In paragraph 26 of that Schedule (taxations with respect to contentious business)—

(a) in the paragraph heading for “Taxations” substitute “ Assessments ”,

(b) the existing paragraph becomes sub-paragraph (1) and in that sub-paragraph —

(i) for “taxation” substitute “ assessment ”,

(ii) for “taxing officer” substitute “ costs officer ”,

(iii) after “the body” (in the second place) insert “ or any manager or employee of the body ”, and

(iv) for “any solicitor, being an officer” substitute “ any authorised person, being a manager ”, and

(2) In this paragraph “authorised person” means an authorised person, in relation to an activity which is a reserved legal activity, within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007.

114

In paragraph 28 (power of court to order recognised body to pay over clients' money) after “client” (in the third place) insert “ or any manager or employee of such a body ”.

115

For paragraph 29 of that Schedule (actions to recover costs) substitute—

(29) (1) Subsection (2A) of section 69 of the 1974 Act shall have effect in relation to a bill of costs delivered by a recognised body as if for paragraphs (a) and (b) there were substituted— (a) signed on behalf of the recognised body by any manager or employee of the body authorised by it to do so, or (b) enclosed in, or accompanied by, a letter which is so signed and refers to the bill. (2) Subsection (2E) of that section shall have effect in relation to such a bill as if for “the solicitor” there were substituted “ the recognised body ”.

116

In paragraph 30 (power of Society to inspect files relating to certain proceedings), for paragraph (b) substitute—

(b) for the appointment of an administrative receiver within the meaning of section 251 of the Insolvency Act 1986; or

117

In paragraph 31 of that Schedule (bank accounts)—

(a) omit “or (2)”, and

(b) after “bank” insert “ or building society ”.

118

After that paragraph insert—

(31A) Where rules made under section 32(1) of the 1974 Act are applied to managers or employees in accordance with section 9(2)(fb) of this Act, section 85 of the 1974 Act shall apply in relation to a manager or employee to whom the rules are applied who keeps an account with a bank or building society in pursuance of any such rules as it applies in relation to a solicitor who keeps such an account in pursuance of rules under section 32.

119

(1) Paragraph 32 of that Schedule (intervention by Society) is amended as follows.

(2) In sub-paragraph (1)(a)—

(a) for “Council are” substitute “ Society is ”,

(b) after “recognised body” insert “ or a manager of such a body ”, and

(3) For sub-paragraph (1)(c) substitute—

(c) a relevant insolvency event occurs in relation to a recognised body; or

(4) In sub-paragraph (1)(d)—

(a) for “Council have” substitute “ Society has ”,

(b) for “officer” substitute “ manager ”, and

(i) that body's business, (ii) any trust of which that body is or was a trustee, (iii) any trust of which the manager or employee is or was a trustee in his capacity as such a manager or employee, or (iv) the business of another body in which the manager or employee is or was a manager or employee or the practice (or former practice) of the manager or employee; or

(5) After sub-paragraph (1)(d) insert—

(e) the Society is satisfied that it is necessary to exercise the powers conferred by Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the 1974 Act (or any of them) in relation to a recognised body to protect— (i) the interests of clients (or former or potential clients) of the recognised body, (ii) the interests of the beneficiaries of any trust of which the recognised body is or was a trustee, or (iii) the interests of the beneficiaries of any trust of which a person who is or was a manager or employee of the recognised body is or was a trustee in that person's capacity as such a manager or employee;

(6) After sub-paragraph (1) insert—

(1A) For the purposes of this paragraph a relevant insolvency event occurs in relation to a recognised body if— (a) a resolution for a voluntary winding-up of the body is passed without a declaration of solvency under section 89 of the Insolvency Act 1986; (b) the body enters administration within the meaning of paragraph 1(2)(b) of Schedule B1 to that Act; (c) an administrative receiver within the meaning of section 251 of that Act is appointed; (d) a meeting of creditors is held in relation to the body under section 95 of that Act (creditors' meeting which has the effect of converting a members' voluntary winding up into a creditors' voluntary winding up); (e) an order for the winding up of the body is made.

(7) Omit sub-paragraph (2).

120

For paragraph 33 of that Schedule (further grounds for intervention)—

(a) for paragraph (a) substitute—

(a) the Society is satisfied that there has been undue delay— (i) on the part of a recognised body in connection with any matter in which it is or was acting on behalf of a client or with any trust of which it is or was a trustee, or (ii) on the part of a person who is or was a manager or employee of a recognised body in connection with any trust of which the manager or employee is or was a trustee in his capacity as such a manager or employee;

, and

(b) in paragraph (c) for “Council regard” substitute “ Society regards ”.

121

In paragraph 34 of that Schedule (powers of intervention on revocation of recognition etc), in sub-paragraph (1)—

(a) omit “corporate” (in both places), and

(b) in paragraph (a), after “revoked” insert “ in accordance with rules under that section or ”.

122

In paragraph 35 of that Schedule (provision relating to the application of Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Solicitors Act 1974)—

(a) in paragraph (a) omit “corporate”, and

(b) omit “and” at the end of paragraph (b) and after paragraph (c) insert—

(d) paragraph 6(2)(a) of that Schedule is to be construed as including a reference to sums of money held by or on behalf of the recognised body in connection with any trust of which a person who is or was a manager of the recognised body is or was a trustee in his capacity as such a manager; (e) paragraph 9 of that Schedule is to be construed— (i) as if sub-paragraph (1) included a reference to documents in the possession or under the control of the recognised body in connection with any trust of which a person who is or was a manager or employee of the recognised body is or was a trustee in his capacity as such a manager or employee, and (ii) as applying to such a manager or employee and documents and property in his possession or under his control in connection with such a trust as it applies to a solicitor and documents and property in the possession or under the control of the solicitor; (f) paragraph 11(1) of that Schedule is to be construed as including a power for the Society to apply to the High Court for an order for the appointment of a new trustee to a trust in substitution for a person who is a trustee, in his capacity as a manager or employee of the recognised body; and (g) paragraph 13A of that Schedule is to be read as if the references to a former partner were references— (i) in the case of a recognised body which is a partnership, to a former partner in the partnership, and (ii) in any other case to a manager or former manager of the recognised body.

123

In paragraph 36 of that Schedule (privilege from disclosure etc)—

(a) for sub-paragraph (1) substitute—

(1) Where a recognised body acts as such for a client, any communication, document, material or information is privileged from disclosure in like manner as if the recognised body had at all material times been a solicitor acting for the client.

(b) in sub-paragraph (3) for “an officer” substitute “ a manager ”, and

(4) This paragraph does not apply to a recognised body which holds a licence under Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (alternative business structures).

Part 3 — The Courts and Legal Services Act 1990 (c. 41)

124

The Courts and Legal Services Act 1990 is amended in accordance with this Part of this Schedule.

125

In section 89 (foreign lawyers: recognised bodies and partnerships with solicitors)—

(a) for subsection (3)(a)(iv) substitute—

(iv) sections 36 and 36A (compensation grants); and

(b) in subsection (4), for paragraphs (a) to (d) substitute “ to make different provision with respect to registered foreign lawyers to the provision made with respect to solicitors. ”,

(d) in paragraph (a) of that subsection for “the commencement of this section” substitute “ or in the same Session as the Legal Services Act 2007 was passed ”,

(e) in subsection (6) for “Secretary of State” substitute “ Lord Chancellor ”,

(f) in subsection (7) for “Secretary of State” (in both places) substitute “ Lord Chancellor ”,

(g) in paragraph (a) of that subsection for “the commencement of this section” substitute “ or in the same Session as the Legal Services Act 2007 was passed ”,

(h) in that subsection for “officers” substitute “ managers ”,

(i) after subsection (8) insert—

(8A) Rules and regulations made by the Law Society under, or by virtue of, this section or Schedule 14 which are not regulatory arrangements within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007 are to be treated as such arrangements for the purposes of that Act.

, and

(j) in subsection (9), after the definition of “foreign lawyer” insert—

“manager”, in relation to a body, has the same meaning as in the Legal Services Act 2007 (see section 207 of that Act);

126

Schedule 14 to that Act (foreign lawyers: partnerships and recognised bodies) is amended as follows.

127

In paragraph 1 (interpretation) omit the definitions of “the Council” and “controlled trust”.

128

In paragraph 2 (application for registration)—

(a) for “Council” in each place substitute “ Society ”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (1)(b) for “the Master of the Rolls” substitute “ the Legal Services Board ”,

(i) for “Law Society” substitute “ Society ”, and

(ii) for paragraphs (a) and (b) substitute “ for members of that profession to be managers of recognised bodies. ”,

(d) omit sub-paragraph (3),

(e) in sub-paragraph (4)—

(i) for “Master of the Rolls” substitute “ Legal Services Board ”, and

(ii) in paragraph (a) after “including” insert “ the form of the register and ”,

(f) in that sub-paragraph, after paragraph (b) insert

and (c) the making available to the public of the information contained in the register (including the manner in which, and hours during which, the information is to be made so available and whether the information is to be made available free of charge).

, and

(g) omit sub-paragraph (5).

129

After paragraph 2 insert—

(2A) (1) The Society may direct that a foreign lawyer's registration is to have effect subject to such conditions as the Society thinks fit to impose. (2) A direction under sub-paragraph (1) may be given in respect of a foreign lawyer (a) at the time he is first registered, or (b) at any time when the registration has effect.

130

In paragraph 3 (duration of registration) in sub-paragraphs (2) and (3)(c) for “Council” substitute “ Society ”.

131

In paragraph 5 (intervention in practices)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (3)(a) and (b)—

(i) for “Council have” substitute “ Society has ”, and

(ii) omit “by virtue of his being a member of that partnership”,

(b) after sub-paragraph (3)(b) insert—

(ba) the Society has reason to suspect dishonesty on the part of the registered foreign lawyer (“L”) in connection with— (i) the business of any person of whom L is or was an employee, or of any body of which L is or was a manager, or (ii) any business which is or was carried on by L as a sole trader;

(d) after sub-paragraph (3)(e) insert—

(ea) the Society is satisfied that he has abandoned his practice;

(e) in sub-paragraph (3)(i)—

(i) for “Council are” substitute “ Society is ”, and

(ii) for “an officer” (in both places) substitute “ a manager ”,

(f) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(j) the Society is satisfied that it is necessary to exercise the intervention powers (or any of them) in relation to the registered foreign lawyer to protect— (i) the interests of clients (or former or potential clients) of the registered foreign lawyer or the multi-national partnership, or (ii) the interests of the beneficiaries of any trust of which the registered foreign lawyer is or was a trustee.

(g) omit sub-paragraph (4),

(h) in sub-paragraph (5)(a) for “a complaint is made to the Society” substitute “ the Society is satisfied ”,

(i) in sub-paragraph (5)(a)(ii) for “controlled trust” substitute “ trust ”,

(j) in sub-paragraph (5)(c) for “Council regard” substitute “ Society regards ”, and

(k) after sub-paragraph (9) insert—

(10) In this paragraph “manager”, in relation to a recognised body, has the same meaning as in the Legal Services Act 2007 (see section 207 of that Act).

132

For paragraph 6 (compensation fund) substitute—

(6) Section 36 of the 1974 Act applies in relation to registered foreign lawyers as if for paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (1) there were substituted— (a) an act or omission of a registered foreign lawyer or former registered foreign lawyer; (b) an act or omission of an employee or former employee of a registered foreign lawyer or former registered foreign lawyer;

133

For paragraph 7 (contributions to fund) substitute—

(7) Section 36A(2) and (3) of the 1974 Act applies in relation to registered foreign lawyers as it applies in relation to solicitors.

134

For paragraph 8 (accountants' reports) substitute —

(8) Section 34 of the Act of 1974 applies in relation to registered foreign lawyers as it applies in relation to solicitors.

135

In paragraph 14 (appeal against conditions or refusals)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1)—

(i) for “Master of the Rolls” substitute “ High Court ”, and

(ii) for “2(3)” substitute “ 2A ”,

(b) omit sub-paragraph (2),

(i) omit “to him”,

(ii) for “Master of the Rolls” substitute “ High Court ”, and

(iii) for “he” substitute “ it ”, and

(d) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(4) In relation to an appeal under this paragraph the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit as to payment of costs. (5) The decision of the High Court on an appeal under this paragraph shall be final.

136

In paragraph 15 (jurisdiction and powers of disciplinary tribunal)—

(a) after sub-paragraph (3) insert—

(3A) Any person who alleges that a registered foreign lawyer has knowingly acted in contravention of any order under section 43(2) of the Act of 1974 or of any conditions subject to which a permission has been granted under such an order may make a complaint to the Tribunal.

(b) in sub-paragraph (4)(c), omit “not exceeding £5,000”, and

137

In paragraph 16(2) (foreign lawyers assisting Tribunal) for “Master of the Rolls” substitute “ Legal Services Board ”.

138

In paragraph 17 (appeals from Tribunal)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) for “lie—” to the end substitute “ lie to the High Court ”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (2)—

(i) omit “and the Master of the Rolls”, and

(ii) for “they” substitute “ it ”,

(c) in sub-paragraph (3) for “of the Master of the Rolls on an appeal under this paragraph” substitute “ of the High Court on an appeal in the case of an order on an application under paragraph 15(2)(d) or (e), or the refusal of any such application, ”, and

(d) omit sub-paragraph (4).

SCHEDULE 17

Part 1 — Administration of Justice Act 1985 (c. 61)

1

Part 2 of the Administration of Justice Act 1985 (licensed conveyancing) is amended in accordance with this Part.

2

In section 11 (provision of conveyancing services by licensed conveyancers)—

(a) in subsection (1) for “by persons” to the end substitute “ and other services by persons who hold licences in force under this Part or who are recognised bodies. ”,

(b) for subsection (3) substitute—

(3) References in this Part to conveyancing services are references to— (a) the preparation of transfers, conveyances, contracts and other documents in connection with, and other services ancillary to, the disposition or acquisition of estates or interests in land, and (b) any other activities which are reserved instrument activities for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see section 12 of and Schedule 2 to that Act). (3A) For the purposes of subsection (3)— (a) “disposition” (i) does not include a testamentary disposition or any disposition in the case of such a lease as is referred to in section 54(2) of the Law of Property Act 1925 (short leases), but (ii) subject to that, includes in the case of leases both their grant and their assignment, and (b) “acquisition” has a corresponding meaning.

, and

3

In section 12 (establishment of the Council), omit subsection (2).

4

(1) Section 15 (issue of licences by Council) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (3)(b), for “21” substitute “ 42 ”.

(3) In subsection (4), for “the period of” to the end substitute “ such period, beginning with the date of issue of the licence, as may be specified in the licence. ”

(4) Omit subsections (7) and (8).

5

(1) Section 16 (conditional licences) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)—

(a) after paragraph (c) insert—

(ca) after the Investigating Committee established under section 24 has made any order in his case under section 24A;

, and

(b) after paragraph (e) insert—

(ea) when, having been required by rules made under section 22 to deliver to the Council a report by an accountant, he has not delivered such a report within the period required by the rules; (eb) after having been disqualified under section 99 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (disqualification from being manager or employee of a licensed body etc); (ec) after his holding of a restricted interest in a licensed body has been approved subject to conditions under paragraph 17, 28 or 33 of Schedule 13 to that Act (ownership of licensed bodies) or objected to under paragraph 19, 31 or 36 of that Schedule;

(3) In subsection (4)—

(a) after “paragraph” insert “ (ca), ”, and

(b) after “(e),” insert “ (ea), (eb), (ec), ”.

(4) In subsection (5) for “or” at the end of paragraph (a) substitute—

(aa) pending the hearing and determination of any appeal brought by the applicant under paragraph 18, 20, 29, 32, 34 or 37 of Schedule 13 to the Legal Services Act 2007; (ab) pending the review by a licensing authority, in accordance with its licensing rules, of a determination that the applicant should be disqualified under section 99 of the Legal Services Act 2007; or

(5) After that subsection insert—

(6) In this section— - “licensed body”, “licensing authority” and “licensing rules” have the same meaning as in the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 71, 73 and 83 of that Act); - “restricted interest”, in relation to a body, has the same meaning as in Schedule 13 to that Act (ownership of licensed bodies).

6

After section 16 insert—

(16A) (1) This section applies where a person applies for a licence at a time when section 16 has effect in relation to him by reason of the circumstances mentioned in section 16(1)(ea). (2) The application must be accompanied by an additional fee of an amount prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this section.

7

(1) Section 17 (imposition of conditions during currency of licence) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (2)(a)—

(a) after “paragraph” insert “ (ca), ”, and

(b) after “(e),” insert “ (ea), (eb), (ec), ”.

(3) In subsection (4), for “or” at the end of paragraph (a) substitute—

(aa) pending the hearing and determination of any appeal brought by the licensed conveyancer under paragraph 18, 20, 29, 32, 34 or 37 of Schedule 13 to the Legal Services Act 2007; (ab) pending the review by a licensing authority, in accordance with its licensing rules, of a determination that the licensed conveyancer should be disqualified under section 99 of the Legal Services Act 2007; or

(4) After subsection (5) insert—

(6) In this section “licensing authority” and “licensing rules” have the same meaning as in the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 73 and 83 of that Act).

8

After section 17 insert—

(17A) (1) This section applies where a licensed conveyancer's licence has effect subject to conditions. (2) On an application made by the licensed conveyancer, the Council may in prescribed circumstances direct— (a) the removal of a condition; (b) the variation of a condition in the manner described in the application. (3) “Prescribed” means prescribed by rules made by the Council. (4) Section 14 (applications for licences) applies in relation to an application under this section as it applies in relation to applications for a licence under this Part.

9

In section 18 (suspension or termination of licences), after subsection (2) insert—

(2A) Where the power conferred by paragraph 6(1) or 9(1) of Schedule 5 has been exercised in relation to a licensed conveyancer by virtue of paragraph 1(1)(a)(i), (aa), (c) or (e) of that Schedule, the exercise of that power shall operate immediately to suspend any licence held by that person under this Part. (2B) Subsection (2A) does not apply if, at the time when the power referred to there is exercised, the Council directs that subsection (2A) is not to apply in relation to the licensed conveyancer concerned. (2C) If, at the time when the power referred to in subsection (2A) is exercised, the Council gives a direction to that effect, the licensed conveyancer concerned may continue to act in relation to any matter specified in the direction as if the licence had not been suspended by virtue of subsection (2A), but subject to such conditions (if any) as the Council sees fit to impose. (2D) Subject to subsection (2E), where a licence is suspended by virtue of subsection (2A) the suspension of the licence shall continue until the licence expires. (2E) The licensed conveyancer may, at any time before the licence expires, apply to the Council to terminate the suspension. (2F) On an application under subsection (2E), the Council may in its discretion— (a) by order terminate the suspension either unconditionally or subject to such conditions as the Council may think fit, or (b) refuse the application. (2G) If on an application by a licensed conveyancer under subsection (2E) the Council refuses the application or terminates the suspension subject to conditions, the licensed conveyancer may appeal against the decision of the Council to the High Court which may— (a) affirm the decision, or (b) terminate the suspension either unconditionally or subject to such conditions as it may think fit. (2H) In relation to an appeal under subsection (2G) the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit as to payment of costs.

10

In section 20 (rules as to professional practice, conduct and discipline), in subsection (1) omit “, in pursuance of its general duty referred to in section 12(2),”.

11

In section 22 (keeping of accounts and establishment of client accounts)—

(a) in subsection (3)(a) omit “qualified”, and

(b) for subsections (4) and (5) substitute—

(4) Provision made in rules by virtue of subsection (3)(a) may provide that the reports delivered to the Council must be reports given by accountants in respect of whom requirements prescribed by the rules are met.

12

(1) Section 24 (preliminary investigation of disciplinary cases) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)—

(a) for “preliminary investigation” substitute “ consideration ”,

(b) omit paragraph (b), and

(3) After subsection (1) insert—

(1A) The Investigating Committee shall make a preliminary investigation of such an allegation and— (a) hear and determine the allegation, or (b) refer the allegation to the Discipline and Appeals Committee established under section 25 for hearing and determination by that Committee under section 26.

(4) Omit subsection (2).

(5) In subsection (3) omit—

(a) “or (2)”,

(b) “or complaint” (in both places), and

(6) After subsection (4) insert—

(4A) The Council shall make rules as to the cases in which the Investigating Committee may hear and determine an allegation, and the cases in which they must refer an allegation to the Discipline and Appeals Committee.

(7) In subsection (5) omit “or complaint” (in both places).

(8) After that subsection insert—

(6) Before making a direction under subsection (5), the Investigating Committee must give the licensed conveyancer an opportunity to make representations against the making of the proposed direction. (7) In relation to proceedings under subsection (6), the Investigating Committee may make such order as they think fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council, or (b) the licensed conveyancer. (8) Where a direction under subsection (5) has been made, the licensed conveyancer may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Committee may make such order as they think fit. (9) Where an order has been made under subsection (7) the Council or the licensed conveyancer may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Committee may make such order as they think fit. (10) Where an order is made by the Discipline and Appeals Committee under subsections (8) or (9)— (a) the person against whom the order is made, and (b) if not within paragraph (a), the Council, may appeal against the order to the High Court. (11) On an appeal under subsection (10) the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit. (12) The decision of the High Court on an appeal under subsection (10) shall be final.

13

After section 24 insert—

(24A) (1) Where, on hearing an allegation by virtue of section 24(1A)(a), the Investigating Committee are satisfied that a licensed conveyancer— (a) has, while holding a licence in force under this Part, failed to comply with any condition to which that licence was subject, or (b) has failed to comply with any rules made by the Council under this Part, the Committee may, if they think fit, make an order directing the payment by the licensed conveyancer of a penalty to be forfeited to Her Majesty. (2) In relation to proceedings before the Investigating Committee by virtue of section 24(1A)(a), the Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council, (b) the licensed conveyancer against whom the proceedings were brought, or (c) if the person on whose allegation the proceedings were brought was heard (in person, or through a representative) by the Committee in the course of the proceedings, that person. (3) In subsection (2), for the purposes of paragraph (a) or (b) of that subsection, the reference to costs includes costs incurred in connection with a preliminary investigation of the allegation under section 24(1A). (4) The amount of any penalty required to be paid under subsection (1) may not exceed such amount as may be prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this subsection. (5) Paragraphs 1, 2(1) and (3) and 4 of Schedule 4 have effect in relation to— (a) proceedings for the hearing and determination of an allegation by the Investigating Committee, as they have effect in relation to proceedings before the Discipline and Appeals Committee under section 26, and (b) orders of the Investigating Committee, as they have effect in relation to orders of the Discipline and Appeals Committee. (6) A person against whom an order is made by the Investigating Committee by virtue of subsection (1) may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they think fit. (7) Where an order is made by the Investigating Committee by virtue of subsection (2), a person listed in paragraphs (a) to (c) of that subsection may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they think fit. (8) Where an order is made by the Discipline and Appeals Committee under subsection (6) or (7)— (a) a party to the appeal, or (b) if not within paragraph (a), the Council, may appeal against the order to the High Court. (9) On an appeal under subsection (8) the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit. (10) The decision of the High Court on an appeal under subsection (8) shall be final.

14

In section 25 (the Discipline and Appeals Committee), in subsection (1)(b) for “sections 27 to” substitute “ section 24A, 27, 28 or ”.

15

(1) Section 26 (proceedings in disciplinary cases) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1) after “allegation” insert “ referred to them under section 24(1A)(b) ”.

(3) In subsection (2)—

(a) in paragraph (e), for “£3,000” substitute “ such amount as may be prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this paragraph ”,

(b) for paragraph (f) substitute—

(f) an order reprimanding the licensed conveyancer.

, and

(4) After subsection (2) insert—

(2A) In relation to proceedings before the Discipline and Appeals Committee under this section, the Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the licensed conveyancer against whom the proceedings were brought; (c) if the person on whose allegation the proceedings were brought was heard (in person, or through a representative) by the Committee in the course of the proceedings, that person. (2B) In subsection (2A), for the purposes of paragraph (a) or (b) of that subsection, the reference to costs includes costs incurred in connection with a preliminary investigation of the allegation under section 24(1A).

(5) Omit subsections (5) and (6).

(6) After subsection (7) insert—

(7A) Where the Discipline and Appeals Committee make an order under subsection (2A), a person listed in paragraphs (a) to (c) of that subsection may appeal to the High Court, and on any such appeal the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit.

(7) In subsection (8), after “(7)” insert “ or (7A) ”.

16

In section 27 (removal of disqualification from holding a licence), after subsection (2) insert—

(3) In relation to proceedings on an application under subsection (1), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the applicant.

17

In section 28 (revocation of licence on grounds of fraud or error), after subsection (4) insert—

(5) In relation to proceedings for the revocation of a licence under subsection (1), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the licensed conveyancer to whose licence the proceedings relate. (6) In relation to proceedings on an application under subsection (2), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the applicant.

18

In section 29 (appeals from decisions of Council in relation to licences)—

(a) in subsection (1), omit “or” at the end of paragraph (b),

(b) in that subsection, at the end of paragraph (c) insert

or (d) refuses an application made by that person under section 17A,

, and

(ba) in the case of an appeal under subsection (1)(d), by order direct the Council to grant the application;

19

(1) Section 31 (application of Schedule 5) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (2) omit—

(a) “or complaint” (in each place), and

(b) “or paragraph (b)”.

(3) In subsection (3), for “and 12” substitute “ to 12A ”.

(4) In subsection (4) omit “or complaint”.

20

(1) Section 32 (provision of conveyancing services by recognised bodies) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)(a) for “by licensed” (in the first place) to the end substitute “ of conveyancing services bodies; ”.

(3) In subsection (1)(b) for “such services” substitute “ conveyancing services or other relevant legal services ”.

(4) After subsection (1)(b) insert—

(ba) prescribing the Council's arrangements for authorising recognised bodies, for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007, to carry on reserved instrument activities, or the administration of oaths, within the meaning of that Act;

(5) In subsection (1)(c) for “conditions” substitute “ requirements ”.

(6) In subsection (2) omit “corporate”.

(7) In subsection (3)—

(a) in paragraph (a) after “section” insert “ , or for the renewal of such recognition, ”,

(b) after that paragraph insert—

(aa) for the payment of fees in connection with other applications under the rules;

(c) about the time when any recognition granted under this section, or renewal of such recognition, takes effect and the period for which it is (subject to the provisions of this Part) to remain in force; (ca) for the suspension or revocation of any such recognition, on such grounds and in such circumstances as may be prescribed in the rules; (cb) about the effect on the recognition of a partnership or other unincorporated body (“the existing body”) of any change in its membership, including provision for the existing body's recognition to be transferred where the existing body ceases to exist and another body succeeds to the whole or substantially the whole of its business;

(d) omit paragraph (d),

(e) in paragraph (e)—

(i) for “a list” substitute “ a register ”,

(ii) omit “corporate”, and

(iii) for “, and for the” to the end substitute “ and such other information relating to those bodies as may be specified in the rules; ”,

(f) after that paragraph insert—

(ea) for information (or information of a specified description) on such a register to be made available to the public, and about the manner in which and times at which, information is to be made so available;

(g) after paragraph (f) insert—

(fa) about the education and training requirements to be met by managers and employees of recognised bodies; (fb) for rules made under any other provision of this Part to have effect in relation to managers and employees of recognised bodies with such additions, omissions or other modifications as appear to the Council to be necessary or expedient;

, and

(h) in paragraph (g) after “recognised bodies” insert “ or managers or employees of such bodies ”.

(8) After subsection (3) insert—

(3A) Rules made by the Council may provide for the Council to grant a body recognition under this section subject to one or more conditions. (3B) At any time while a body is recognised under this section, the Council may, in such circumstances as may be prescribed, direct that the body's recognition is to have effect subject to such conditions as the Council may think fit. “Prescribed” means prescribed by rules made by the Council. (3C) The conditions which may be imposed under subsection (3A) or (3B) include— (a) conditions restricting the kinds of conveyancing services that may be provided by the body; (b) conditions imposed by reference to criteria of general application; (c) conditions requiring the body to take any specified steps that will, in the opinion of the Council, be conducive to the body carrying on an efficient business; and conditions may be imposed despite the fact that they may result in expenditure being incurred by the body. (3D) On an application made by a recognised body, the Council may, in such circumstances as may be prescribed, direct— (a) the removal of a condition subject to which the body's recognition has effect; (b) the variation of such a condition in the manner described in the application. (3E) For the purposes of subsection (3D)— (a) section 14 applies in relation to an application under that subsection as it applies in relation to an application for a licence under this Part of this Act, and (b) “prescribed” means prescribed by rules made by the Council. (3F) Rules under subsection (3A) or (3B) may make provision about when conditions imposed take effect (including provision conferring power on the Council to direct that a condition is not to have effect until the conclusion of any appeal in relation to it). (3G) Rules under this section may contain such incidental, supplemental, transitional or transitory provisions or savings as the Council considers necessary or expedient.

(9) Omit subsections (4) and (5).

(10) In subsection (6)—

(a) in paragraph (a) omit “corporate”, and

(b) for paragraph (b) substitute—

(b) that a body's recognition under this section does not have effect subject to any conditions or has effect subject to any particular conditions,

(11) After subsection (7) insert—

(8) In this section “conveyancing services body” and “relevant legal services” have the meaning given by section 32A. (9) The Council is capable of being designated as a licensing authority for the purposes of, and subject to, Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (alternative business structures).

21

After section 32 (provision of conveyancing by recognised bodies) insert—

(32A) (1) For the purposes of section 32 a “conveyancing services body” means a body (corporate or unincorporate) in respect of which— (a) the management and control condition, and (b) the services condition, are satisfied. (2) The management and control condition is satisfied in the case of a partnership if at least one of the partners is a licensed conveyancer. (3) The management and control condition is satisfied in the case of an unincorporated body (other than a partnership), or a body corporate which is managed by its members, if at least one of those members is a licensed conveyancer. (4) The management and control condition is satisfied in the case of any other body corporate if at least one director of the body is a licensed conveyancer. (5) The services condition is satisfied in respect of a body if the body is carrying on a business consisting of the provision of— (a) conveyancing services, or (b) conveyancing services and other relevant legal services. (6) For the purposes of this section— - “authorised person” means an authorised person in relation to an activity which is a reserved legal activity (within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007); - “relevant legal services”, in relation to a body, means— 1. conveyancing services, and 2. where authorised persons are managers or employees of, or have an interest in, the body, services such as are provided by individuals practising as such authorised persons (whether or not those services involve the carrying on of reserved legal activities within the meaning of the Legal Services Act 2007); and a person has an interest in a body if the person has an interest in the body within the meaning of Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (see sections 72 and 109 of that Act).

22

For section 33 (legal professional privilege), substitute—

(33) (1) Subsection (2) applies where a licensed conveyancer or recognised body acts as such for a client. (2) Any communication, document, material or information is privileged from disclosure in like manner as if the licensed conveyancer or body had at all material times been acting as the client's solicitor. (3) This section does not apply to a recognised body which holds a licence under Part 5 of the Legal Services Act 2007 (alternative business structures).

23

After that section insert—

(33A) The Council may make rules prescribing its arrangements for authorising licensed conveyancers, for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007, to carry on activities which consist of the administration of oaths.

24

In section 34 (modification of existing enactments relating to conveyancing etc), omit subsection (2)(c) to (e).

25

In section 35 (penalty for pretending to be a licensed conveyancer or recognised body), in subsection (2) omit “corporate”.

26

In section 36 (offences by bodies corporate)—

(a) the existing section becomes subsection (1) of that section and in that subsection for “director” to “capacity” substitute “ officer of the body corporate ”, and

(b) after that subsection insert—

(2) Where the affairs of a body corporate are managed by its members, subsection (1) applies in relation to the acts and defaults of a member in connection with the member's functions of management as it applies to an officer of the body corporate. (3) Proceedings for an offence under this section alleged to have been committed by an unincorporated body are to be brought in the name of that body (and not in that of any of its members) and, for the purposes of any such proceedings, any rules of court relating to the service of documents have effect as if that body were a corporation. (4) A fine imposed on an unincorporated body on its conviction of an offence under this section is to be paid out of the funds of that body. (5) If an unincorporated body is charged with an offence under this section, section 33 of the Criminal Justice Act 1925 and Schedule 3 to the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (procedure on charge of an offence against a corporation) have effect in like manner as in the case of a corporation so charged. (6) Where an offence under this section committed by an unincorporated body (other than a partnership) is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of, or to be attributable to any neglect on the part of, any officer of the body or any member of its governing body, that officer or member as well as the unincorporated body is guilty of the offence and liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly. (7) Where an offence under this section committed by a partnership is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of, or to be attributable to any neglect on the part of, a partner, that partner as well as the partnership is guilty of the offence and liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly. (8) In this section “officer”, in relation to a body corporate, means— (a) any director, secretary or other similar officer of the body corporate, or (b) any person who was purporting to act in any such capacity.

27

In section 38 (rules)—

(a) omit subsection (1), and

(b) in subsection (2) for “such rules” substitute “ rules made by the Council under this Part ”.

28

In section 39(1) (interpretation of Part 2)—

(a) in the definition of “client”, in paragraph (a) omit “or his firm”,

(b) omit the definitions of “director” and “officer”,

“manager”, in relation to a body, has the same meaning as in the Legal Services Act 2007 (see section 207 of that Act);

, and

(d) in the definition of “recognised body” omit “corporate”.

29

(1) Schedule 3 (Council for Licensed Conveyancers: supplementary provisions) is amended as follows.

(2) In paragraph 2(1), for “elected or nominated” substitute “ appointed ”.

(3) In paragraph 2(2), for “elect” substitute “ appoint ”.

(4) Omit paragraph 2(3).

(5) Omit paragraph 3.

(6) In paragraph 4(1)—

(a) for “election or nomination” (in both places) substitute “ appointment ”,

(b) for “election of” substitute “ appointment of ”, and

(7) In paragraph 4(2), for “elected or nominated” (in each place) substitute “ appointed ”.

(8) In paragraph 4(3), for the words from “Secretary of State” (in the first place) to the end substitute “ Legal Services Board. ”

(9) In paragraph 4(4)—

(a) for “Secretary of State” (in both places) substitute “ Legal Services Board ”,

(b) for “him” substitute “ it ”, and

(10) In paragraph 9, for “election or nomination” substitute “ appointment ”.

(11) In paragraph 10 for “Secretary of State” (in both places) substitute “ Lord Chancellor ”.

(12) In paragraph 11(3) for “Secretary of State” substitute “ Lord Chancellor ”.

30

(1) Schedule 4 (the Discipline and Appeals Committee: supplementary provisions) is amended as follows.

(2) In paragraph 1 (rules of procedure)—

(a) omit sub-paragraphs (3) and (4), and

(b) in sub-paragraph (5), for “paragraphs 2 and 3” substitute “ paragraph 2 ”.

(3) Omit paragraph 3.

31

(1) Schedule 5 (intervention in licensed conveyancer's practice) is amended as follows.

(2) In paragraph 1 (grounds for intervention)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1)(a) after “practice” insert “ or former practice or in connection with any trust of which that licensed conveyancer is or was a trustee ”,

(b) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(aa) the Council has reason to suspect dishonesty on the part of a licensed conveyancer (“L”) in connection with— (i) the business of any person of whom L is or was an employee, or of any body of which L is or was a manager, or (ii) any business which is or was carried on by L as a sole trader;

(d) in sub-paragraph (1)(c), after “section” insert “ 20, 21(3)(c), ”,

(e) after sub-paragraph (1)(e) insert—

(ea) the Council is satisfied that a licensed conveyancer has abandoned his practice; (eb) the Council is satisfied that a licensed conveyancer has been practising in breach of any conditions subject to which his licence has effect;

(f) in sub-paragraph (1)(f), after “illness” insert “ , injury ”,

(g) for sub-paragraph (1)(g) substitute—

(g) a licensed conveyancer lacks capacity (within the meaning of the Mental Capacity Act 2005) to act as a licensed conveyancer and powers under section 15 to 20 or section 48 of that Act are exercisable in relation to the licensed conveyancer;

(h) after sub-paragraph (1)(h) insert—

(i) the Council is satisfied that it is necessary to exercise the powers conferred by Part 2 of this Schedule (or any of them) in relation to a licensed conveyancer to protect— (i) the interests of clients (or former or potential clients) of the licensed conveyancer or his firm, or (ii) the interests of the beneficiaries of any trust of which the licensed conveyancer is or was a trustee.

, and

(i) omit sub-paragraph (2).

(3) In paragraph 3 (intervention following an undue delay)—

(a) for “10(3)” substitute “ 10(9) ”,

(b) in paragraph (a) for “a complaint is made to the Council” substitute “ the Council is satisfied ”,

(d) in that paragraph after “client” insert “ or in connection with any trust ”.

(4) In paragraph 4(2) (continuation of powers after death etc of licensed conveyancer)—

(a) after “and (3)” insert “ , 6A ”,

(b) for “and (5)” substitute “ , (5) and (6) ”, and

(5) In paragraph 6 (vesting of sums in Council)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) after “thereto” insert “ and to rules under paragraph 6B ”, and

(b) in sub-paragraph (2)(a) after “practice” insert “ or former practice or with any trust of which he is or was a trustee ”.

(6) After paragraph 6 insert—

(6A) (1) Without prejudice to paragraph 5, if the Council passes a resolution to the effect that any rights to which this paragraph applies shall vest in the Council, those rights shall vest accordingly. (2) This paragraph applies to any right to recover or receive debts due to the licensed conveyancer or his firm in connection with his practice or former practice. (3) Any sums recovered by the Council by virtue of the exercise of rights vested under sub-paragraph (1) shall vest in the Council and shall be held by it on trust to exercise in relation to them the powers conferred by this Part of this Schedule and, subject to those powers and to rules under paragraph 6B, upon trust for the persons beneficially entitled to them. (4) The Council shall serve on the licensed conveyancer or his firm, and any person who owes a debt to which the order applies a certified copy of the Council's resolution. (6B) (1) The Council may make rules governing its treatment of sums vested in it under paragraph 6 or 6A(3). (2) The rules may, in particular, make provision in respect of cases where the Council, having taken such steps to do so as are reasonable in all the circumstances of the case, is unable to trace the person or persons beneficially entitled to any sum vested in the Council under paragraph 6 or 6A(3) (including provision which requires amounts to be paid into or out of a fund maintained under section 21).

(7) In paragraph 7(1) (holding of sums vested in Council) after “thereto” insert “ and to rules under paragraph 6B ”.

(8) In paragraph 8 for “holds money” to the end substitute—

(a) holds money on behalf of the licensed conveyancer or his firm, or (b) has information which is relevant to identifying any money held by or on behalf of the licensed conveyancer or his firm, the court may require that person to give the Council information as to any such money and the accounts in which it is held.

(9) In paragraph 9 (documents)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1)(a)—

(i) after “possession” insert “ or under the control ”, and

(ii) after “practice” insert “ or former practice or with any trust of which the licensed conveyancer is or was a trustee ”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (1)(b)—

(i) after “possession” insert “ or under the control ”, and

(ii) for “to which the complaint relates” substitute “ of which the Council is satisfied ”,

(d) in sub-paragraph (5) after “possession” insert “ or are under the control ”,

(e) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(5A) In the case of a document which consists of information which is stored in electronic form, the requirement imposed by a notice under sub-paragraph (1) or an order under sub-paragraph (4) or (5), is a requirement to produce or deliver the information in a form in which it is legible or from which it can readily be produced in a legible form.

(f) in sub-paragraph (6) after “possession of” insert “ (a) ”,

(g) at the end of that sub-paragraph insert—

(b) any property— (i) in the possession or under the control of the licensed conveyancer or his firm, or (ii) in the case of an order under sub-paragraph (5), which was in the possession or under the control of such a person and has come into the possession or under the control of the person in respect of whom the order is made, which the Council reasonably requires for the purpose of accessing information contained in such documents, and to use property obtained under paragraph (b) for that purpose.

(h) in sub-paragraph (7) after “documents” insert “ or other property ”,

(i) in sub-paragraph (8) after “documents” insert “ or other property ”, and

(j) in sub-paragraph (10) after “documents” insert “ or other property ”.

(10) For paragraph 10 (mail) substitute—

(10) (1) The High Court, on the application of the Council, may from time to time make a communications redirection order. (2) A communications redirection order is an order that specified communications to the licensed conveyancer or his firm are to be directed, in accordance with the order, to the Council, or any person appointed by the Council. (3) For the purposes of this paragraph— (a) “specified communications” means communications of such description as are specified in the order; (b) the descriptions of communications which may be so specified include— (i) communications in the form of a postal packet; (ii) electronic communications; (iii) communications by telephone. (4) A communications redirection order has effect for such time not exceeding 18 months as is specified in the order. (5) Where a communications redirection order has effect, the Council or the person appointed by the Council may take possession or receipt of the communications redirected in accordance with the order. (6) Where a communications redirection order is made the Council must pay to— (a) in the case of an order relating to postal packets, the postal operator concerned, and (b) in any other case, the person specified in the order, the like charges (if any) as would have been payable for the redirection of the communications to which the order relates if the addressee had permanently ceased to occupy or use the premises or other destination of the communications and had applied to the postal operator or the specified person (as the case may be) to redirect the communications to him as mentioned in the order. (7) The High Court may, on the application of the Council, authorise the Council, or a person appointed by it, to take such steps as may be specified in the order in relation to any website purporting to be or have been maintained by or on behalf of the licensed conveyancer or his firm if the High Court is satisfied that the taking of those steps is necessary to protect the public interest or the interests of clients (or potential or former clients) of the licensed conveyancer or his firm. (8) In this paragraph “postal operator” and “postal packet” have the meaning given by section 125(1) of the Postal Services Act 2000. (9) This paragraph does not apply where the powers conferred by this Part of this Schedule are exercisable by virtue of paragraph 3.

(11) After paragraph 10 insert—

(10A) (1) If the licensed conveyancer or his personal representative is a trustee of a trust, the Council may apply to the High Court for an order for the appointment of a new trustee in substitution for him. (2) The Trustee Act 1925 has effect in relation to an appointment of a new trustee under this paragraph as it has effect in relation to an appointment under section 41 of that Act.

(12) In paragraph 11 (liens) for “and documents” substitute “ , documents and other property ”.

(13) After paragraph 12 (costs) insert—

(12A) (1) The High Court, on the application of the Council, may order a former partner of the licensed conveyancer to pay a specified proportion of the costs mentioned in paragraph 12. (2) The High Court may make an order under this paragraph only if it is satisfied that the conduct (or any part of the conduct) by reason of which the powers conferred by this Part were exercisable in relation to the licensed conveyancer was conduct carried on with the consent or connivance of, or was attributable to any neglect on the part of, the former partner. (3) In this paragraph “specified” means specified in the order made by the High Court.

32

(1) Schedule 6 (bodies recognised under section 32: supplementary provisions) is amended as follows.

(2) In paragraph 1—

(a) omit “corporate” (in both places), and

(b) in sub-paragraph (2) omit—

(i) “or complaint” (in both places), and

(ii) “or (b)”.

(3) In paragraph 2 (disciplinary control of recognised bodies) after “24” insert “ , 24A ”.

(4) In paragraph 3—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1), in paragraph (a)(i) omit “by any court in the United Kingdom”,

(b) after paragraph (a) of that sub-paragraph insert—

(aa) it is alleged that a manager or employee of a recognised body who is not a licensed conveyancer has failed to comply with any rules applicable to him by virtue of section 32; (ab) it is alleged that a recognised body (while a recognised body) has failed to comply with a condition subject to which its recognition has effect.

(i) paragraph (b), and

(ii) from “with a view” to the end, and

(d) after sub-paragraph (1) insert—

(1A) After making such an investigation, the Investigating Committee may— (a) hear and determine the allegation, or (b) refer the allegation to the Discipline and Appeals Committee for hearing and determination by that Committee under paragraph 4. (1B) The Council shall make rules as to the cases in which the Investigating Committee may hear and determine an allegation, and the cases in which they must refer an allegation to the Discipline and Appeals Committee.

(5) After paragraph 3 insert—

(3A) (1) Where, on hearing an allegation by virtue of paragraph 3(1A)(a), the Investigating Committee are satisfied— (a) in a case within paragraph 3(1)(a), that a recognised body has failed to comply with any such rules as are mentioned in sub-paragraph (ii) of that paragraph, or (b) in a case within paragraph 3(1)(aa), that a manager or employee has failed to comply with any such rules as are mentioned in that paragraph, or (c) in a case within paragraph 3(1)(ab), that a recognised body has failed to comply with any condition mentioned in that paragraph, the Committee may make an order directing the payment by the recognised body, manager or employee of a penalty to be forfeited to Her Majesty. (2) In relation to proceedings before the Investigating Committee by virtue of paragraph 3(1A)(a), the Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the recognised body, manager or employee against whom the proceedings were brought; (c) if the person on whose allegation the proceedings were brought was heard (in person, or through a representative) by the Committee in the course of the proceedings, that person. (3) In sub-paragraph (2), for the purposes of paragraph (a) or (b) of that sub-paragraph, the reference to costs includes costs incurred in connection with a preliminary investigation of the allegation under paragraph 3. (4) The amount of any penalty required to be paid under sub-paragraph (1) may not exceed such amount as is prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this sub-paragraph. (5) Paragraphs 1, 2(1) and (3) and 4 of Schedule 4 have effect in relation to— (a) proceedings for the hearing and determination of an allegation by the Investigating Committee, as they have effect in relation to proceedings before the Discipline and Appeals Committee under section 26, and (b) orders of the Investigating Committee, as they have effect in relation to orders of the Discipline and Appeals Committee. (6) A person against whom an order is made by the Investigating Committee by virtue of sub-paragraph (1) may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they think fit. (7) If an order is made by the Investigating Committee by virtue of sub-paragraph (2), a person listed in paragraphs (a) to (c) of that sub-paragraph may appeal to the Discipline and Appeals Committee, and on any such appeal the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they think fit. (8) Where an order is made by the Discipline and Appeals Committee under sub-paragraph (6) or (7)— (a) a party to the appeal, or (b) if not within paragraph (a), the Council, may appeal against the order to the High Court. (9) On an appeal under sub-paragraph (8) the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit. (10) The decision of the High Court on an appeal under sub-paragraph (8) shall be final.

(6) In paragraph 4—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) after “allegation” insert “ within paragraph 3(1)(a) or (ab) ”,

(b) in that sub-paragraph, after paragraph (b) insert

, or (c) has failed to comply with any such condition as is mentioned in paragraph 3(1)(ab),

(c) in sub-paragraph (2), in paragraph (b), for “£3,000” substitute “ such amount as may be prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this sub-paragraph ”,

(d) after paragraph (b) of that sub-paragraph insert—

(ba) an order reprimanding that body; (bb) an order that the recognition of that body under section 32 is to have effect subject to such conditions as may be specified in the order;

(e) omit paragraph (c) of that sub-paragraph,

(f) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(2A) Where on the hearing of any allegation within paragraph 3(1)(aa) the Discipline and Appeals Committee are satisfied that a manager or employee has failed to comply with any such rules as are mentioned in sub-paragraph (ii) of that paragraph, the Committee may, if they think fit, make one or more of the orders referred to in sub-paragraph (2B). (2B) Those orders are— (a) an order directing the payment by the manager or employee of a penalty not exceeding such amount as may be prescribed by rules made by the Council for the purposes of this sub-paragraph; (b) an order requiring the Council to consider taking such steps as the Committee may specify in relation to the manager or employee; (c) an order requiring the Council to refer to an appropriate regulator any matter relating to the conduct of the manager or employee. (2C) For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2B)(c) an “appropriate regulator” in relation to a manager or employee means— (a) if the person is an authorised person in relation to a reserved legal activity for the purposes of the Legal Services Act 2007, any relevant approved regulator (within the meaning of that Act) in relation to that person, and (b) if the person carries on activities which are not reserved legal activities, any person who exercises regulatory functions in relation to the carrying on of such activities by the person. (2D) In relation to proceedings under this paragraph, the Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the recognised body or manager or employee against whom the proceedings were brought; (c) if the person on whose allegation the proceedings were brought was heard (in person, or through a representative) by the Committee in the course of the proceedings, that person. (2E) In sub-paragraph (2D), for the purposes of paragraph (a) or (b) of that sub-paragraph, the reference to costs includes costs incurred in connection with a preliminary investigation of the allegation under paragraph 3.

, and

(g) omit sub-paragraphs (3), (3A) and (4).

(7) In paragraph 5—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1)—

(i) after “26” insert “ or paragraph 4 ”, and

(ii) for “director” (in each place) substitute “ manager ”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (3) for “director” (in both places) substitute “ manager ”, and

(4) In relation to proceedings for the revocation of a recognition under sub-paragraph (1), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the body to whose recognition the proceedings relate.

(8) In paragraph 6 (appeals against orders of the Committee)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1)—

(i) for “body corporate” substitute “ person ”,

(ii) after “4(1)” insert “ or (2A) ”, and

(iii) for “5” substitute “ 5(1) ”, and

(b) after that sub-paragraph insert—

(1A) Where an order is made by the Committee under paragraph 4(2D) or 5(4) a person listed in that paragraph may appeal to the High Court, and on any such appeal the High Court may make such order as it thinks fit.

(9) After paragraph 7 (revocation of recognition on grounds of fraud or error)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) and (2) omit “corporate”, and

(b) after sub-paragraph (2) insert—

(3) In relation to proceedings for the revocation of a recognition under sub-paragraph (1), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the body to whose recognition the proceedings relate. (4) In relation to proceedings on an application under sub-paragraph (2), the Discipline and Appeals Committee may make such order as they consider fit as to the payment of costs by— (a) the Council; (b) the applicant.

(10) In paragraph 8 (appeal against decision of Council in relation to grant of recognition)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1) omit “corporate”,

(b) in paragraph (b) of that sub-paragraph for “restrictions” substitute “ conditions ”,

, or (c) decides to give a direction in relation to that body under section 32(3B), or (d) refuses an application by that body under section 32(3D),

(d) in sub-paragraph (2) for “this paragraph” substitute “ sub-paragraph (1)(a) or (b) ”,

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