Risk management focus

 What’s all this about having to make a plan under the new rules for what happens to the firm in the event of a disaster? How on earth do I know what might happen?

You’re quite right, there is a provision in the Solicitors Code of Conduct 2007 which is relevant. You can find it in rule 5.01(1)(k). You’ll remember that rule 5.01 generally makes it a collective responsibility of all partners to ensure there are effective processes for various things.

Well, for this one, the idea is simple enough: it just says you have to make arrangements for the continuation of the practice of the firm in the event of absences and emergencies, with the minimum interruption to clients’ business.

Well, of course I want to protect the partners, but why should this be a matter for the regulators?

You’re missing the point. This isn’t a rule for your benefit; it’s for the benefit of the client. What it