Solicitor: Rights of Audience

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In the United Kingdom’s legal system, the term “right of audience” refers to a lawyer’s authority to appear and conduct proceedings in court on behalf of a client. Traditionally, this right was predominantly associated with barristers. However, significant reforms have enabled solicitors to obtain rights of audience in higher courts, enhancing their role within the legal profession.

Evolution of Solicitors’ Rights of Audience

Historically, solicitors in England and Wales possessed rights of audience primarily in magistrates’ courts and county courts. Barristers, on the other hand, held rights of audience across all courts, including the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, High Court, Crown Court, and County Courts. This distinction meant that solicitors often had to instruct barristers for representation in higher courts.

Recognizing the need for greater flexibility and efficiency in legal representation, reforms were introduced to allow solicitors to obtain Higher Rights of Audience (HRA). This qualification enables solicitors to represent clients in higher courts without the necessity of involving barristers, streamlining legal proceedings and offering clients more direct access to their legal representatives.

Becoming a Solicitor Advocate

A solicitor who acquires HRA is often referred to as a solicitor advocate. This role combines the advisory functions of a solicitor with the advocacy capabilities of a barrister, providing clients with comprehensive legal representation throughout the judicial process. To become a solicitor advocate, one must:

1. Complete Solicitor Qualification: Fulfill the necessary educational and professional requirements to practice as a solicitor in England and Wales.

2. Obtain Higher Rights of Audience: Enroll in a specialized training course and successfully pass the assessments to gain HRA.
   

   

Training and Assessment for Higher Rights of Audience

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) oversees the standards and procedures for granting HRA. The process involves:

• Advocacy Assessments: Candidates must pass assessments that evaluate their advocacy skills in civil or criminal proceedings. These assessments are conducted by organizations authorized by the SRA.

• No Mandatory Prior Experience: There is no requirement for candidates to have prior advocacy experience or training before undertaking the assessments. All necessary training and evaluations are incorporated within the course and assessment framework.

Approved Course Providers

Several institutions offer accredited courses to prepare solicitors for the HRA assessments. Notable providers include:

• The University of Law: Offers comprehensive training programs tailored for aspiring solicitor advocates.

• BPP University: Provides courses focused on developing the necessary skills for higher court advocacy.

• City, University of London: Offers specialized training in advocacy for legal professionals seeking HRA qualifications.

Benefits of Obtaining Higher Rights of Audience

Acquiring HRA offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Client Representation: Solicitor advocates can provide continuous legal support from initial advice through to representation in higher courts.

• Professional Development: Gaining HRA is a testament to a solicitor’s commitment to expanding their expertise and capabilities within the legal field.

• Increased Earning Potential: With the ability to represent clients in higher courts, solicitor advocates may access a broader range of cases, potentially leading to higher fees.

Table of Course Providers

There are different methods of study available to prospective solicitor advocates.