What is the Law Society?

The Law Society represents, promotes and supports solicitors in England and Wales. From negotiating with and lobbying the profession’s regulators, government and others, to offering training and advice, the Law Society helps solicitors to help their clients. The Law Society also works internationally to open up markets to their members and to defend human rights, and is run by Law Society solicitors.

30% of the annual practising certificate fee paid by solicitors to the Solicitors Regulation Authority goes to the Law Society to support, represent and promote the profession. The remainder of the funding is generated by commercial activities.

The Law Society is governed by The Law Society, with Council members elected to represent members form different demographic groups and parts of the progression in England and Wales. These council members are supported by approx 300 volunteers on the board and committee members to deliver advice, support and services.

Offices are based in London, Brussels and Wales covering everything from legal policy, communications, products and services, and business development, to relationship with the government, parliament and overseas bars.

Member Benefits

The Law Society helps current and future members by:

• Providing support, advice and guidance on areas of practice and management, tailored to members’ individual needs
• Supporting equality, diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, enabling and encouraging the best people to join regardless of their background
• Campaigning on legal issues of importance to our members and the public
• Acting as the approved regulator for solicitors, ensuring regulation is fair and proportionate while protecting the public.

Examples of resources provided include:

• Practice notes and guidance
• Podcasts, webinars, videos, roadshows and events
• Reports on the legal market at home and abroad
• One-to-one support – helplines covering practice advice, anti-money laundering and pastoral care
• World-renowned library services – accessible across England and Wales
• Targeted and relevant support tailored for specific practice areas

Who Can Join?

Solicitors involved in:

• High street practice
• Commercial practice
• Regional or city firms
• ABS
• Private Organisation
• Public Organisation
• Charitable Organisation