Threat of no confidence vote subsides for now but COLP/COFA debate remains after Law Society AGM
Summary
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has paused its proposal to separate COLP and COFA roles from owner-managers and other decision-makers, avoiding an immediate vote of no confidence at the Law Society AGM. However, the debate remains unresolved, with the SME and Boutique Law Firm Alliance continuing to press for evidence-based regulation, greater transparency and a formal challenge to the SRA’s leadership.
Why it matters
While the article concerns solicitors’ regulation rather than surveying directly, it highlights how regulatory changes can affect smaller professional firms and the wider legal services environment that supports property transactions. Surveyors working alongside conveyancers should note the potential for ongoing uncertainty in compliance and governance expectations across the sector.
Key points
- The SRA has paused implementation of the COLP/COFA separation proposal.
- The Law Society AGM did not proceed with a vote of no confidence in the SRA.
- The SME and Boutique Law Firm Alliance says the proposals lack evidence and are disproportionate.
- Further debate may return at the Law Society’s December council meeting or via a Special General Meeting.
- Members criticised the tone of the discussion and the handling of objections by the regulator and Law Society.
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