How do I appeal a decision of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal?

If you would like to appeal a decision of the Solicitor Disciplinary Tribunal (“SDT”), the appeal lies to the Administrative Court. The time limit for lodging an appeal is 21 days from when the statement of reasons for a decision is given.

The court has power to make such orders on an appeal as it may think fit. The correct approach of the Courts to appeals from the SDT was set out in Law Society v Salsbury which provides:

“The correct analysis is the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal comprises an expert and informed Tribunal, which is particularly well placed in any case to assess what measures are required to deal with defaulting solicitors and to protect the public interest. Absent any error of law, the High Court must pay considerable respect to the sentencing decisions of the Tribunal. Nevertheless, if the High Court, despite paying such respect, is satisfied that the sentencing decision was clearly inappropriate, then the Court will interfere. It should also be noted that an appeal from the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal to the High Court normally proceeds by way of review.”

Saunders Law regulatory department will assist a solicitor to appeal a SDT decision to the Administrative Court. If you need to appeal a  SDT decision, our team would be happy to assist. Please get in contact by calling 0207 632 4300 to speak to one of the members of our team:

James Saunders, Steve Garratt, Tom Airey, Amber Richardson.