By David Young-
A ‘literature review’ published today found that BAME solicitors are over-represented in complaints made to the regulator.
It is not the first time the regulator has explored the reasons it obtains a disproportionate number of solicitors complained about
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In 2014 a review conducted by professor Gus John cleared the regulator of institutional racism. John’s review did not examine the imbalance in complaints raised.
The research is the first part of an ongoing research project to try and understand why those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are overrepresented in reports to, and resulting investigations by, the regulator.
The SRA said the literature review is directed at the pattern of complaints it receives, but researchers said it did identify a number of common themes from other sectors which might mean those from certain ethnic backgrounds are more likely to be reported to their regulator.
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These related to conscious and unconscious perceptions or expectations, among those making the complaints, which mean they are more likely to complain about an individual.
Being more exposed to working environments, types of work or other case-related circumstances that by their very nature generate more complaints.
Based on the findings of the literature review, the universities are undertaking an objective and in-depth analysis of SRA datasets. They will also explore the experiences of solicitors and behaviours among legal service users.
A final report on the research is expected to published in spring 2024.
Paul Philip, SRA Chief Executive, said: ‘The findings of this literature review confirms there is no simple explanation as to why Black, Asian and minority ethnic solicitors are overrepresented in the complaints that we receive. We want to know what structural and societal factors are driving this troubling and longstanding pattern. The next stages of the research will look into this further so that we can better understand what’s happening and how these issues could be addressed.’
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