Understanding Legal Standards
Law Society Quality Marks Explained
Quality marks and accreditations help you identify solicitors with proven expertise in specific areas of law. Here's what each one means and how it benefits you.
Why Quality Marks Matter
Proven Expertise
Solicitors must demonstrate substantial experience and pass rigorous assessments
Ongoing Standards
Regular audits and training requirements ensure standards are maintained
Client Protection
Additional safeguards and complaint procedures for accredited firms
CQS - Conveyancing Quality Scheme
The gold standard for residential conveyancing. Firms with CQS accreditation have demonstrated high standards in the home buying and selling process.
What It Means
- Rigorous client care standards
- Comprehensive case management procedures
- Regular compliance audits
- Staff training requirements
- Professional indemnity insurance checks
Lexcel
The Law Society's legal practice quality mark for excellence in practice management and client care across all areas of law.
What It Means
- Proven excellence in client care
- Strong risk management procedures
- Efficient case and file management
- Commitment to continuous improvement
- Independent assessment and verification
WIQS - Wills & Inheritance Quality Scheme
Specialist accreditation for firms handling wills, trusts, tax planning, and estate administration.
What It Means
- Expertise in complex estate planning
- Knowledge of inheritance tax matters
- Trust administration capabilities
- Regulated and monitored standards
- Ongoing professional development
Family Law Panel
Members have demonstrated substantial experience and expertise in family law matters.
What It Means
- Proven family law expertise
- Resolution-focused approach
- Child-inclusive practice training
- Collaborative law experience
- Mediation awareness
Criminal Litigation Accreditation Scheme (CLAS)
Recognises solicitors with expertise in criminal defence work at police stations and courts.
What It Means
- Specialist criminal law knowledge
- Police station accreditation
- Court advocacy experience
- Legal aid expertise
- Regular competency assessments
Personal Injury Panel
Solicitors who have demonstrated expertise in handling personal injury claims.
What It Means
- Proven PI expertise
- Knowledge of medical evidence
- Court experience
- No win no fee expertise
- Complex case handling
Mental Capacity Accreditation
Specialists in matters relating to mental capacity, Court of Protection, and deputyship.
What It Means
- Mental Capacity Act expertise
- Court of Protection experience
- Deputyship applications
- Best interests assessments
- Vulnerable client care
Immigration & Asylum Accreditation
Recognised expertise in immigration law including visas, asylum, and nationality matters.
What It Means
- OISC or Law Society accredited
- Complex case experience
- Appeal expertise
- Human rights knowledge
- Regular training updates