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Solicitor’s practising certificate restricted under SRA control of practice order

The SRA places conditions on Andrew King’s practising certificate for the 2025–26 year

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has imposed a control of practice condition on the practising certificate of solicitor Andrew King, restricting the way in which he may practise during the 2025/2026 practising year.

According to a decision published on 5 February 2026, the condition took effect on 5 January 2026 and was imposed following an internal SRA decision. No firm details were provided in the published outcome.

Under the terms of the condition, Mr King may act as a solicitor only as an employee, and only where that employment has first been approved by the SRA. The regulator confirmed that the wording of the condition uses defined terms as set out in the SRA Glossary.

The SRA said the restriction has been imposed in the public interest and described it as reasonable and proportionate. In reaching its decision, the regulator cited the purposes set out in regulation 7 of the SRA Authorisation of Individuals Regulations, as well as the regulatory objectives and principles governing regulatory activities contained in section 28 of the Legal Services Act 2007.

The outcome was reached by the SRA decision and does not form part of a regulatory settlement agreement. The regulator has not published further factual background or allegations relating to the decision.

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Controls of practice are used by the SRA to place limits on how an individual solicitor may work, without preventing them from practising altogether. Such conditions may include restrictions on employment status, supervision, or the type of role a solicitor is permitted to undertake. In this case, the condition limits Mr King’s practice to an employed role that must receive prior regulatory approval.

The SRA’s powers to impose conditions on practising certificates are designed to protect the public interest, support consumer confidence, and maintain professional standards within the legal profession. The regulator is required to ensure that any restriction imposed is proportionate and aligned with its statutory objectives.

The published decision confirms that the SRA considered the relevant regulatory framework before determining that the condition was necessary. No indication has been given as to whether the condition is subject to review or for how long it may remain in place, beyond its application to the 2025/2026 practising certificate.

The SRA routinely publishes regulatory and disciplinary decisions to promote transparency and public confidence in the regulation of legal services. Practising certificate conditions are among a range of regulatory tools available to the regulator, alongside sanctions such as rebukes, fines, and suspensions.

Andrew King remains entitled to practise as a solicitor subject to compliance with the imposed condition and any further requirements set by the SRA.

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