Legal Practice Council to amend rules regarding the storage of records

On 28 October 2020, the Legal Practice Council (LPC) issued an advisory on the storage of records pending the amendment of rule 54.9.2. This rule deals with the storage of accounting records, as well as all files and documents relating to matters dealt with by a law firm on behalf of clients. At present, prior written consent must be obtained from the LPC if such records are to be stored at a place other than the firm’s main office or branch.

As set out in the advisory, the LPC has now resolved to amend rule 54.9.2 to permit a firm to store the relevant records at a place other than its main office or branch, without having to obtain the consent of the LPC, provided that there are adequate arrangements in place with regard to security and confidentiality.

The LPC has further resolved that this position is also applicable pending the amendment of rule 54.9.2, provided that there are adequate arrangements in place with regard to security and confidentiality.

The LPC advisory is accessible here.

Please note: The information contained in this note is for general guidance on matters of interest, and does not constitute legal advice. For any enquiries, please contact us at [email protected].