IPReg deals with complaints about regulated persons or firms where there is evidence that there has been a breach of IPReg’s regulatory arrangements, including the Overarching Principles and the Code of Conduct, or where the regulated person does not meet the minimum character and suitability standards. Complaints are dealt with under the disciplinary process set out at Chapter 4 of the Core Regulatory Framework and the associated Standard Operating Procedure.
IPReg will usually not investigate a complaint where the misconduct complained of occurred more than 12 months ago, unless the misconduct has only recently come to the attention of the complainant. This is because the object of disciplinary proceedings is to protect consumers from current poor conduct rather than punish the attorney for historic breaches of the rules. Where a significant amount of time has passed between the misconduct and the disciplinary action, disciplinary action may be disproportionate and contrary to the public interest. Additionally, evidence can be more difficult to obtain as memories fade and records are no longer available, making it difficult to fully understand the events that occurred.
You can make a complaint about a regulated person or firm by submitting this online form. You can check if an attorney is regulated by IPReg by checking our online register. If an attorney has made an application to remove themselves from the register, you will see "Voluntary Removal Sought" next to their name and the date upon which they are due to be removed from the register(s). If you wish to raise a concern about an attorney who is seeking voluntary removal, you must do so before their removal date. After they are removed from the register, IPReg has no power to investigate or take disciplinary action.
IPReg is a “data controller”. This means that we are responsible for deciding how we hold and use personal information about you. By contacting us, you are giving us consent to process the personal data that you give us so that we can provide information or assistance to you. You can withdraw this consent at any time by contacting us. For more information about how we handle your data, please read our Privacy Notice.
The pages on the menu to the left provides additional details.
You can also contact us if you need further guidance.