Code of Conduct
Effective Date: January 2026 Version: 1.0
Introduction
This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected from all legal professionals using the eSolicitors platform. It supplements (but does not replace) your existing regulatory obligations under the SRA Code of Conduct, BSB Handbook, or other applicable rules.
Our Core Values
eSolicitors is built on four core values that all users are expected to uphold:
- Integrity - Honesty and transparency in all dealings
- Professionalism - Maintaining the highest professional standards
- Respect - Treating all users with dignity and courtesy
- Excellence - Striving to provide outstanding service
Professional Standards
Regulatory Compliance
As a legal professional on eSolicitors, you must:
- Maintain current authorisation from your regulatory body (SRA/BSB)
- Comply with all applicable professional conduct rules
- Report any regulatory issues or restrictions promptly
- Not engage in any conduct that could bring the profession into disrepute
Client Service
You must provide clients with:
- Competent service - Only take on work you are qualified to perform
- Diligent attention - Progress matters efficiently and keep clients informed
- Clear communication - Explain complex legal matters in understandable terms
- Honest advice - Even when the advice may not be what the client wants to hear
Confidentiality
You must:
- Protect client confidentiality at all times
- Not discuss client matters on public forums or social media
- Ensure secure handling of all client documents
- Comply with data protection requirements
Platform Behaviour
Communication Standards
When communicating through the platform:
- Respond to enquiries within 24 hours (or set appropriate expectations)
- Use professional language at all times
- Be respectful, even when declining instructions
- Avoid aggressive or confrontational language
Accurate Information
You must ensure:
- Your profile information is accurate and current
- Fee quotes are honest and include all applicable charges
- Availability information reflects your actual capacity
- Qualifications and experience are accurately represented
Timely Service
You are expected to:
- Meet agreed deadlines
- Communicate proactively if delays occur
- Not take on more work than you can handle
- Provide realistic timescales at the outset
Interactions with Other Users
Client Interactions
When dealing with clients:
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Listen carefully to their needs | Make assumptions about their situation |
| Explain options clearly | Use excessive legal jargon |
| Set realistic expectations | Over-promise and under-deliver |
| Be patient and understanding | Be dismissive of their concerns |
Solicitor-to-Solicitor Interactions
When interacting with other legal professionals:
- Maintain professional courtesy
- Respect referral arrangements
- Not poach clients from other platform users
- Support the professional community
Prohibited Conduct
The following conduct will not be tolerated:
Serious Misconduct
- Fraud or dishonesty - Any form of fraudulent behaviour
- Discrimination - Based on any protected characteristic
- Harassment - Including sexual harassment or bullying
- Criminal conduct - Any criminal behaviour
- Regulatory breach - Serious breaches of professional rules
Platform-Specific Violations
- Fee circumvention - Taking relationships off-platform to avoid fees
- Review manipulation - Fake reviews or suppressing negative feedback
- Misrepresentation - False claims about qualifications or experience
- Spam - Unsolicited or inappropriate communications
- Conflict of interest - Undisclosed conflicts
Reporting Concerns
How to Report
If you witness conduct that violates this Code:
- Minor concerns: Report through the platform's feedback system
- Serious concerns: Email conduct@esolicitors.com
- Urgent matters: Contact us immediately by phone
Whistleblower Protection
We will:
- Treat all reports confidentially
- Not retaliate against good faith reporters
- Investigate all credible reports promptly
- Take appropriate action where violations are found
Enforcement
Investigation Process
When potential violations are reported:
- Initial assessment of the report
- Gathering of relevant evidence
- Opportunity for the accused to respond
- Decision by the Conduct Committee
- Communication of outcome to parties
Possible Consequences
| Violation Severity | Possible Actions |
|---|---|
| Minor | Warning, additional training required |
| Moderate | Temporary suspension, conditions on participation |
| Serious | Extended suspension, fee forfeiture |
| Severe | Permanent removal, regulatory referral |
Appeals
You may appeal any enforcement decision by:
- Submitting a written appeal within 14 days
- Providing any new evidence or information
- Awaiting review by an independent panel
Updates to This Code
We may update this Code of Conduct from time to time. Material changes will be:
- Communicated by email to all registered professionals
- Posted on this page with an updated effective date
- Subject to a reasonable notice period before taking effect
Acknowledgement
By using the eSolicitors platform, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.
Questions?
If you have questions about this Code of Conduct:
- Email: conduct@esolicitors.com
- Post: Conduct Committee, Esol Corporation Limited, [Address]
This Code of Conduct should be read alongside the Solicitor Terms & Conditions and your regulatory body's code of conduct.