Catalogue description Records of the Legal Services Ombudsman

The Legal Services Ombudsman replaced the Lay Observer who ceased to operate in 1990. The Ombudsman was appointed by the Lord Chancellor to oversee the handling of complaints against solicitors, barristers and licensed conveyancers, in accordance with s.21 of the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990.

Under the terms of the Act a complainant who is dissatisfied with the way in which a complaint has been dealt with by the professional body concerned may refer the complaint to the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman has powers to recommend that compensation is paid to the complainant by the lawyer complained about or the professional body. He may also recommend that the professional body reconsider the complaint or exercise disciplinary powers at its disposal.

There is no power for the Ombudsman to intervene in matters being dealt with by the Legal Aid Board or by the Solicitors Indemnity Fund.