annex 2
annual report of the professional conduct panel, disciplinary tribunal and appeals panel 2013
Preface
The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) is designated as an Approved Regulator under the Legal Services Act 2007.
delegated its regulatory activities to its subsidiary company, ILEX Professional Standards Limited (IPS). Amongst other areas of activity, IPS is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct made against CILEx members and determining what, if any, action should be taken as a result of proven misconduct.
IPS is also responsible for considering declarations of prior conduct made by applicants for, and members of, CILEx.
In 2013 the operation of the Fitness to Practise Procedures Manual (FTPP), which was produced in 2012, was implemented and trialled by parties involved in complaints. The FTPP has become a public facing document available to all those who use the services of IPS. It is downloadable from the website and provides a transparent view of IPS and its investigation and disciplinary procedures.
During 2012 IPS consulted on proposed changes to the Investigation, Disciplinary and Appeals rules (IDAR). In 2013 as a result of consultation and the CILEx Practice Rights application, changes to the IDAR have been finalised and approved by the LSB. IPS will be preparing to implement the new IDAR in 2015. This will include a review of the FTPP and policies supporting the IDAR.
CILEx has
In 2011 IPS introduced a process of appraising panellists. A comprehensive programme of appraisal took place in 2012 and concluded in 2013. The appraisals demonstrated that panellists are highly skilled and capable of carrying out their responsibilities and this continued to be the case in 2013.
IPS recruited an Investigation Manager to the Investigation Team to provide dedicated resource to the current team and to policy work for the development of the team in light of CILEx Practice Rights. Work has commenced on improving the governance of the Investigation Team and its internal procedures, to ensure future accountability is maintained. An IPS fines policy has been updated and re-developed and is being consulted on.
Panellists, clerks and staff have worked diligently, tirelessly and with flexibility this year to deliver IPS’ regulatory objectives in the disposal of fitness to practise cases.
BOARD MEMBERS SANDRA BARTON AND IAN CHIVERS ENFORCEMENT
Professional standards for specialist lawyers
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