FAQ 4

Q4. My instructing solicitor is unable to attend a conference with the lay client. Am I able to meet the client without the solicitor being present?

A4. There is nothing in the Code of Conduct to prevent you from having a conference on your own with the client, provided that you are satisfied that it is in the client’s interests for you to do so. There are however potential dangers that may arise, such as a disagreement over what was said and agreed at the conference. The solicitor will also need to be informed of what was discussed and decided upon. It is therefore recommended that you have somebody independent present, for example a pupil in Chambers, to take a note of the conference. This is particularly important if the case is complex or there are sensitive issues that need to be discussed.