John Baxter
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more embedded in legal services, law firms are under increasing pressure to align with the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) ethical, professional, and regulatory expectations. As an eLearning provider, it is important to recognise that equipping a firm with the right knowledge and tools is essential for navigating this evolving landscape responsibly.
The SRA has made it clear: accountability, transparency, data protection, and ongoing professional competence are non-negotiable when introducing AI into legal workflows. The role of an online training specialist is to enable firms to translate these obligations into practical, accessible learning that drives both compliance and confidence.
Here’s how tailored online learning solutions can support law firms in meeting the SRA’s expectations:
Building AI awareness across the firm
AI can enhance legal efficiency—but only when understood and used appropriately. Interactive training modules break down key AI concepts, risks, and real-world legal applications. This ensures that legal and non-legal staff alike are aware of AI’s capabilities and limitations, reducing over-reliance and promoting critical oversight.
Strengthening data protection and cybersecurity readiness
With AI often reliant on large datasets, it’s vital that firms stay compliant with GDPR, the SRA’s confidentiality standards, and ICO guidance. Online courses help employees understand how to manage sensitive data, assess third-party AI providers, and prevent data breaches—empowering firms to use AI responsibly and securely.
Promoting ethical and regulatory compliance
Misapplication of AI can result in violations of the SRA Codes of Conduct, especially around client confidentiality, fairness, and transparency. Effective eLearning courses can provide scenario-based training that guides staff through ethical dilemmas, helping them learn when to disclose AI use, how to identify potential bias, and how to ensure human judgment remains central in legal decision-making.
Supporting continuing professional development (CPD)
The SRA’s continuing competence framework requires solicitors to maintain their professional competence throughout their careers. CPD accredited AI and legal tech courses enable individuals to maintain their professional standards while staying ahead of the technological curve. Effective learning management systems also allow for easy tracking, reporting, and evidence submission for all CPD activities.
Enhancing risk management and AI impact assessments
Before deploying AI tools, firms must identify potential risks. Online training resources can typically include practical guides, risk assessment templates, and checklists tailored for legal settings. These digital resources help firms proactively mitigate compliance risks and build in safeguards from day one.
Scaling learning across the organisation
AI adoption isn’t just for the IT department. From partners to support staff, everyone has a role to play. Online training solutions are designed for scale—enabling consistent, cost-effective learning across the entire firm. With anytime, anywhere access, learning becomes flexible and integrated into the daily routines of everyone within a law firm.
Fostering a culture of responsible innovation
Innovation and compliance aren’t mutually exclusive. Structured learning programmes help create a firm-wide mindset that embraces change with responsibility. Online learning should enable firms to explore AI tools confidently, knowing their staff are trained to use them within the guardrails set by the SRA.
Partner with an online training specialist to future-proof your legal practice
Online training is more than a compliance tool—it’s a strategic asset that helps firms meet their SRA obligations and uphold best practices when using AI. By investing in tailored, scalable learning, firms can stay ahead of regulatory changes, protect client trust, and lead with integrity in an AI-enabled legal world.
By working with an online learning specialist, firms can ensure that the adoption of AI not only meets regulatory expectations, but also enhances their delivery of high-quality, client-focused