SRA limits Bristol solicitor Peter Golding’s practice, citing public interest concerns
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has imposed strict conditions on the practising certificate of Bristol-based solicitor Peter John Golding, restricting his ability to work independently and handle client money. The decision, made on 3 September 2025 and published on 9 October 2025, places extensive controls on Golding’s legal practice in what the regulator described as a necessary step in the public interest.
Golding, whose practising certificate number is 139599, was employed by Neath Raisbeck Golding Law Limited, a Bristol firm based at St Brandon’s House, Great George Street. The SRA’s decision means that he may continue to practise as a solicitor, but only under tightly controlled circumstances and only in roles approved by the regulator.
Under the terms of the order, Golding is permitted to practise solely as an employee, and any role he undertakes must first receive SRA approval. He is barred from acting in senior regulatory positions within any law firm, including as compliance officer for legal practice (COLP) or compliance officer for finance and administration (COFA). He is also prohibited from serving as a Head of Legal Practice (HOLP) or Head of Finance and Administration (HOFA) in any authorised organisation.
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In addition, Golding is forbidden from holding or receiving client money, acting as a signatory to client or office accounts, or authorising any transfer of funds. He is also prohibited from accepting new fiduciary appointments such as trustee, executor, attorney under a lasting power of attorney, or court-appointed deputy from the date the conditions took effect.
The SRA stated that the restrictions were necessary “in the public interest” and were “reasonable and proportionate” in light of the regulatory objectives and principles governing the profession. The regulator cited regulation 7 of the SRA Authorisation of Individuals Regulations and section 28 of the Legal Services Act 2007, which require measures to uphold public confidence in legal services and protect clients from potential risk.
While the published notice did not specify any allegations of misconduct, the SRA often imposes practice conditions of this kind when concerns arise about a solicitor’s management of professional responsibilities or financial controls within a firm. Such conditions do not necessarily imply findings of disciplinary wrongdoing but are designed to ensure oversight and accountability while allowing the solicitor to continue practising under supervision.
The decision means that Golding cannot independently manage a legal practice or hold any role involving financial authority without explicit SRA consent. These types of controls typically remain in force until the regulator is satisfied that the risks prompting them have been addressed. Breaching such conditions could result in disciplinary proceedings or suspension of the practising certificate.
Neath Raisbeck Golding Law Limited, where Golding was last practising, is a well-established Bristol firm providing commercial and private client services. The firm’s SRA number is 485529. There has been no suggestion that the firm itself faces regulatory action, and it continues to operate as a regulated practice.
The SRA’s decision underscores the regulator’s ongoing focus on financial management, client money handling, and compliance oversight in the legal profession. It reflects the authority’s willingness to impose preventive controls even where no formal disciplinary sanction has yet been issued, in order to maintain public trust in the integrity of solicitors’ work.
Golding’s practising certificate remains valid for the 2024–2025 period, but subject to all restrictions outlined in the SRA’s order. He will be required to notify any potential employer of these conditions and obtain the SRA’s written approval before starting any future role. The regulator’s notice concludes that the controls are intended to safeguard both clients and the public while ensuring that Golding’s continued practice is properly supervised and compliant with professional standards.