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In a groundbreaking revelation at the UK anti-SLAPPs conference, Juliet Oliver, the executive director of the Solicitors Regulation Authority, disclosed that two firms are set to face tribunal charges in connection with ‘abusive litigation.’ Simultaneously, the cases of six firms accused of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) are in the balance, awaiting a crucial prosecution decision. The conference shed light on the persistent challenges surrounding SLAPPs, emphasizing the need for vigilance within the legal sector.

The landscape of legal battles is evolving, and two firms are about to face the music for what has been termed ‘abusive litigation.’ Juliet Oliver, executive director of the Solicitors Regulation Authority, dropped this bombshell during her address at the UK anti-SLAPPs conference. This revelation adds a new layer to the ongoing discussions surrounding strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs).

Despite the enactment of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, the conference underscored the enduring relevance of SLAPPs as a pressing issue. Charlie Holt, council at Greenpeace and chair of the UK anti-SLAPP coalition, expressed concern about the prevailing complacency and denial within the legal sector. Holt emphasized that these challenges persist, urging the legal community to remain vigilant.

In defense of the Solicitors Regulation Authority, Juliet Oliver outlined the regulatory body’s proactive role in addressing the issue. Following a comprehensive thematic review, the SRA is currently investigating 50 cases related to SLAPPs at 25 firms and six cases involving abusive litigation. Two of the latter have already been referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, marking a significant step towards accountability.

While Oliver refrained from disclosing details of individual cases, she revealed that formal advice had been provided in some of the 19 closed investigations. This cautious approach ensures that past behavior is documented, ready to be revisited if patterns of misconduct re-emerge.

Additionally, Oliver shared insights from a follow-up thematic review, highlighting that levels of awareness are improving within the legal sector. Warning notices issued by the SRA are influencing the day-to-day operations of law firms, reflecting a positive impact on industry practices.

It’s crucial to note that the SRA’s powers extend beyond economic crime, as highlighted by Oliver during the conference. This underscores the regulatory body’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards and safeguarding the integrity of the legal profession.

Sam Townend KC, vice-chair of the Bar Council, offered a counterpoint, suggesting that the SRA’s findings indicate SLAPPs might not be as prevalent as campaigners fear. Townend cautioned against imposing additional restrictions on the bar without concrete evidence of a systemic issue.

However, Charlie Holt, chair of the UK anti-SLAPP coalition, pointed out a significant omission in the thematic review. Firms accused of SLAPPs, which are at the center of these allegations, were excluded from the review, raising questions about the scope and objectivity of the findings.

In conclusion, the revelations at the UK anti-SLAPPs conference highlight the ongoing battle against abusive litigation and SLAPPs within the legal sector. As the regulatory landscape evolves, the legal community must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these challenges to uphold the principles of justice and fairness.

source: SRA to charge two law firms over ‘abusive litigation’, senior executive tells conference on SLAPP lawsuits | Law Gazette

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