John Baxter
Online learning already offers significant benefits to UK law firms in aligning with the ongoing initiatives and directives set out by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), in particular, supporting the maintenance of high standards of professional development, regulatory compliance and ensuring that organisations are able to adapt to changes in legal practice.
In this article, I will be focussing on some specific areas of practice where we have particularly found that advances in learning technology and digital content can help law firms not only stay abreast of SRA expectations, but also exceed requirements in terms of efficiency and performance.
Staying Updated with Regulatory Changes:
Legal practice is continuously evolving, especially with changes in laws, rules, and technologies. Online learning enables firms to access the very latest information and courses covering new directives, laws, and SRA guidelines.
· Continuous updates: eLearning modules are regularly updated by subject matter experts to reflect changes in regulations or emerging legal trends.
· Monthly webinars: This video-based content provides an overview of current and pending directives and updates from the SRA, as well as offering general information, commentary and downloadable resources.
· Specialised training: Firms can create and roll-out specific online training tailored to their practice areas, ensuring compliance with industry-specific guidelines and SRA expectations.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Compliance:
Whilst there is no longer a specified minimum amount of CPD training that solicitors are required to complete, they must still undertake training activities to ensure they meet the necessary standards of competence in their area of practice. Online learning platforms make it easier for law firms to provide flexible, accessible training options for their staff.
· Convenience & flexibility: Solicitors can complete CPD at their own pace with ‘access anywhere’ technology, making it easier to integrate into busy schedules.
· Variety of courses: The latest courses provide a wide range of interactive CPD-approved training, from ethics and professional conduct to sector-specific legal updates.
· Reflecting on learning: Solicitors are able to reflect on their training needs and record how completion of activities has enhanced their ability to practice.
· Tracking and record keeping: Online tools enable tracking and reporting on the completion of CPD activities, providing records of compliance with the SRA’s requirements.
Improving Ethics and Risk Management:
The SRA stresses the importance of ethical practice and managing risks to maintain public trust in the legal profession. Online training can reinforce understanding of ethical obligations, compliance, and best practices for risk management.
· Scenario-based learning: Online courses offer real-world scenarios to help solicitors practice ethical decision-making and risk mitigation strategies.
· Tailored programmes: Courses focused on handling conflicts of interest, client confidentiality, and professional conduct align directly with SRA expectations.
Boosting Diversity and Inclusion:
As part of the SRA’s drive to foster diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, law firms can use online learning to educate staff on issues such as unconscious bias, inclusive practices, and cultural competence.
· Interactive modules: Online courses offer interactive learning on topics such as anti-discrimination policies, inclusive client communication, and fostering a diverse and safe work environment.
· Compliance: Firms are able to use LMS reporting tools to demonstrate compliance with any mandatory diversity metrics that the SRA may impose in future initiatives.
Meeting the SRA’s Focus on Technology and Innovation:
The SRA has highlighted the importance of law firms embracing technology, both to enhance legal services and ensure firms meet regulatory requirements in a digital age.
· Legal technology training: Online learning provides opportunities to train legal professionals in new technologies, data protection, cybersecurity, and digital compliance, helping firms stay competitive and compliant with evolving regulations.
· Adoption of LegalTech: Training on LegalTech tools (such as AI-driven legal research or document automation software) helps firms stay at the forefront of technological innovation while maintaining compliance with SRA standards.
Enhancing Client Care and Communication:
The SRA has been emphasising the need for law firms to prioritise client care, maintain high communication standards, and ensure transparency.
· Communication skills: Online learning can provide staff with modules on effective client communication, managing expectations, and improving client relationships.
· Quality control: Training in quality assurance processes and client management ensures that solicitors follow best practices and meet SRA requirements for client satisfaction and service delivery.
Risk of Non-Compliance and Professional Liability:
In line with the SRA’s directives, firms that fail to provide necessary training and development may expose themselves to regulatory breaches, claims, or reputational damage.
· Mitigating legal risks: Online learning ensures that solicitors remain compliant with the SRA’s requirements, reducing the risk of professional negligence or breach of conduct.
· Audit and documentation: The ability to track and document training activities helps firms demonstrate compliance with the SRA’s regulatory requirements during audits.
Cost-Effective and Scalable:
Online learning offers a cost-effective way for law firms of all sizes to provide regular training and development to their staff. This is particularly beneficial for smaller firms or those with multiple offices.
· Scalability: Online learning can be easily scaled to accommodate a growing firm or a diverse workforce.
· Cost-efficiency: Training costs are typically lower than in-person sessions, and it can be more affordable to train large teams.
Summary:
In summary, online learning enables UK law firms to meet the SRA’s professional development, regulatory compliance, ethics, and risk management expectations effectively. By offering flexible, scalable, and up-to-date training solutions, law firms can stay on top of current initiatives while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Find out more about compliance training and the specialist online services for SME law firms here.