SRA restricts solicitors to supervised employment pending further decision
Kevin Allard has been made subject to interim practising restrictions by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, limiting how he can operate within the profession.
The conditions, imposed on 16 April 2026 and published on 24 April 2026, apply to Mr Allard’s practising certificate for the 2025/2026 period. The regulator confirmed that the measures were introduced pending a final decision in the matter.
Under the terms of the restriction, Mr Allard may only act as a solicitor in an employed capacity and must work under the direct supervision of another solicitor. Any such employment must first be approved by the SRA.
The regulator imposed the condition under rule 3.2 of the SRA Regulatory and Disciplinary Procedure Rules. This provision allows the SRA to apply interim measures at any stage of an investigation where it considers such action necessary.
According to the SRA, the condition has been put in place in the public interest and for the protection of the public. No further details regarding the underlying concerns have been disclosed in the published decision. Interim practising conditions are typically used by the regulator to manage potential risks while investigations or disciplinary proceedings are ongoing. They do not represent a final determination of misconduct.
Such restrictions can limit a solicitor’s ability to practise independently, particularly where concerns relate to professional conduct, client protection, or regulatory compliance.
In this case, the condition requires that Mr Allard’s work is overseen by another solicitor at all times, ensuring an additional level of supervision and accountability. The requirement for prior approval of employment arrangements also gives the regulator oversight of where and how he practises.
The SRA’s powers to impose interim conditions are part of its broader regulatory framework aimed at maintaining standards within the legal profession and safeguarding client interests. The condition will remain in place unless it is varied or removed following further regulatory action or a final decision by the SRA or the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
The decision highlights the regulator’s ability to intervene at an early stage where it considers that restrictions are necessary to mitigate potential risks while matters are under review.