SRA under pressure
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has recorded a dramatic rise in misconduct complaints, with the number of reports received in the six months to April 2026 running 58% higher than the equivalent period two years ago.
In total, the regulator reviewed 8,955 reports of potential misconduct during the period, equivalent to an average of 1,493 new reports every month. Of those, 1,322 were escalated for formal investigation, representing a 41% increase on the monthly average of 156 referrals recorded in 2023-24. The SRA is currently handling 1,844 ongoing investigations linked to reports of potential misconduct.
Jonathan Peddie, the SRA’s executive director for investigations, enforcement and litigation, said the rise in reports was “unprecedented” and was placing significant pressure on the regulator’s resources.
The regulator’s draft 2026-27 business plan, currently out for consultation, sets out proposals to deliver clearer and more proportionate outcomes by refocusing investigations and enforcement work on areas that best protect the public.
he SRA said it was also conducting a review of its end-to-end investigations process, from initial report through to outcomes at the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
The surge in misconduct complaints comes as the SRA faces separate pressure on its compensation fund following a run of law firm collapses, and has proposed a significant increase in practising certificate fees for 2026-27.