SQE2 Client Interview

Question 1

During an initial client interview, what should a solicitor do first before discussing the substantive legal issues?

Accepted Answer

Establish the client's identity, explain the retainer terms, and confirm there are no conflicts of interest

Answer

Before substantive discussion, a solicitor must verify the client's identity (for AML compliance), explain the basis of the retainer including costs, and conduct a conflict check. These are professional obligations under the SRA Code of Conduct.

Question 2

A client becomes visibly distressed during an interview when discussing a sensitive family matter. What is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the client's feelings, offer a brief pause, and proceed at their pace

Answer

Effective client care requires empathy and sensitivity. Acknowledging the client's distress, offering a pause, and adjusting the pace demonstrates good communication skills while maintaining the professional relationship and obtaining necessary information.

Question 3

When taking instructions from a client who has limited English proficiency, what should the solicitor arrange?

Accepted Answer

Arrange for a professional interpreter and confirm the client consents to the interpreter's presence

Answer

A professional interpreter should be arranged to ensure accurate communication. Using family members raises confidentiality and accuracy concerns. The client should consent to the interpreter's presence, and the interpreter should be made aware of confidentiality obligations.

Question 4

A prospective client asks a solicitor for advice during an initial interview but the matter falls outside the solicitor's area of expertise. What should the solicitor do?

Accepted Answer

Advise the client honestly that the matter is outside their expertise and refer them to a specialist

Answer

Under SRA Principle 7 and the Code of Conduct, solicitors must act in the best interests of each client and only provide services they are competent to deliver. If a matter is outside their expertise, they should be honest and refer the client appropriately.

Question 5

During a client interview, the client reveals information that suggests a third party may be at imminent risk of serious harm. What should the solicitor consider?

Accepted Answer

Whether the exception to confidentiality for preventing serious harm applies, and whether disclosure to appropriate authorities is justified

Answer

While client confidentiality is fundamental, it is not absolute. Where there is a risk of serious harm to a third party, the solicitor should consider whether the exception to confidentiality applies, balancing the duty to the client against the duty to prevent serious harm.

SQE2 Practice Test

SQE2 Practice Test

SQE2 Client Interview