SQE Ethics and Professional Conduct

Question 1

Under the SRA Standards and Regulations, what is the overriding duty of a solicitor?

Accepted Answer

To the court and the rule of law, above the interests of the client

Answer

Principle 1 of the SRA Principles requires solicitors to uphold the rule of law and the proper administration of justice, which overrides all other duties including to the client.

Question 2

When must a solicitor cease acting for a client due to a conflict of interest?

Accepted Answer

When there is a significant risk that acting for one client will materially affect the interests of another

Answer

Under the SRA Codes of Conduct, a solicitor must not act where there is a significant risk of a conflict of interest between two or more clients, subject to limited exceptions with informed consent.

Question 3

What is the duty of 'confidentiality' owed by a solicitor to their client?

Accepted Answer

A duty to keep all information relating to the client's matter confidential, even after the retainer ends

Answer

The duty of confidentiality is permanent and survives the end of the retainer — solicitors must not disclose client information without authority, even years later.

Question 4

What is 'legal professional privilege' (LPP) and who can waive it?

Accepted Answer

Protection for confidential lawyer-client communications; only the client can waive it

Answer

LPP protects qualifying confidential communications from disclosure; it belongs to the client, not the solicitor, so only the client can choose to waive it.

Question 5

Under the SRA's 'Principles', which Principle requires solicitors to act with integrity?

Accepted Answer

Principle 5

Answer

SRA Principle 5 requires that solicitors act with integrity in all that they do, covering honesty, trustworthiness, and consistency of professional behaviour.

SQE - Solicitors Qualifying Examination Practice Test

SQE - Solicitors Qualifying Examination Practice Test

SQE Ethics and Professional Conduct