Business continuity planning is now compulsory for law firms to ensure they are able to carry on functioning on behalf of clients in the event of a disaster.
The updated Solicitors’ Code of Conduct introduced the new rules, which became law on 1st July, for all lawyers and solicitors in England and Wales following rules introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Firms will now be expected to make provisions for the management of risk and also to ensure the continuation of the practise of the firm in the event of absences and emergencies.
The heavy flooding across large parts of the UK has highlighted the need for companies of all sizes to prepare for the unexpected by having tried and tested business continuity planning.