Cost of Family Law Solicitor
across the UK

# Family Law Solicitor Trade Body Accreditation

Family law solicitors in the UK are primarily regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which is the statutory regulator for all solicitors in England and Wales. Any qualified family law solicitor must be on the SRA register and hold a practising certificate, which is non-negotiable for legal practice. Beyond this baseline regulation, many family lawyers pursue additional accreditation through the Law Society's Accreditation Scheme, which recognises specialist expertise in family law following rigorous assessment. The Family Law Bar Association also sets standards for barristers practising in family law, though barristers operate under a different regulatory framework through the Bar Standards Board. Some solicitors may also hold resolution membership, which is the specialist body for family lawyers, mediation professionals and collaborative practitioners, and demonstrates a commitment to fair dealing and constructive practice. Understanding these different accreditations helps you identify solicitors who have invested in demonstrable expertise rather than simply holding a general practising certificate.

To verify a solicitor's credentials, start by checking the SRA register at sra.org.uk, where you can search any solicitor's name and confirm their practising status, any disciplinary history, and whether they hold insurance. This free public check is essential before instructing anyone. For specialist accreditation, you can search the Law Society's accredited specialists list, or check for resolution membership on the resolution.org.uk website. Many accredited family law solicitors will display these credentials on their websites and marketing materials, but it is worth independently verifying rather than simply taking their word for it. You should also ask directly whether they hold accreditation, how many years they have specialised in family law, and what training they undertake to maintain their expertise. This matters because it directly impacts the quality of advice you receive in often sensitive and complex matters such as divorce