Wales

Office of the Public Guardian

The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) was set up in October 2007 to provide support for the Public Guardian, the Court of Protection and people who lack the capacity to make decisions for themselves. The OPG manages a register of Lasting Powers of Attorney, a register of Enduring Powers of Attorney and supervises Deputies appointed by the Court of Protection. The site provides information about the work of the OPG and the Court of Protection. There is guidance on the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and advice on Lasting Power of Attorney and Enduring Power of Attorney.

SRA Handbook

Handbook setting out professional standards for solicitors in England and Wales, produced by the Solicitors' Regulation Authority and made available on its website. Includes the SRA Code of Conduct, SRA Accounts Rules and other rules and regulations for practising solicitors. Previous versions of the handbook and old regulatory codes are also available, in the Archive.

Court Funds Office

Website of the Court Funds Office, the UK government department responsible for money being paid into and out of the courts, money belonging to people who lack the capacity to make decisions themselves and children who have been awarded damages through civil proceedings. The Court Funds Office also provides a banking and investment service for courts in England and Wales. The site includes information about the work of the Office, downloadable forms and a glossary.

Trusts, Settlements and Estates Manual

Online version of the Trusts, Settlements and Estates Manual (TSEM1000) published by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) on the UK government website. There is an introduction to trusts and sections providing guidance to the legislation and the legal background covering the law in England and Wales and in Scotland. There is a section on the difference types of trusts and on trusts set up for particular purposes such as employment related-trusts or heritage maintenance funds; other sections deal with trust enquires, trust income and trust management expenses.

Bar Standards Board

The Bar Standards Board (BSB) regulates barristers in England and Wales. Its areas of responsibility include education and training requirements for barristers, setting standards of professional conduct and handling complaints against barristers. Its website provides information for barristers and the general public, including details of the qualifications required to become a barrister, advice on how to make a complaint and information about continuing professional development.

Law Commission publications

A BAILII database providing access to reports and consultation papers published by the Law Commission, which reviews the law of England and Wales. Publications are provided from 1965 onwards in pdf or html format and can be browsed by title/date, or searched by key word. There is also a link to the Law Commission website.

Solicitors Regulation Authority

Website of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which regulates solicitors in England and Wales. The site provides news, information and documentation for solicitors, the general public and those interested in qualifying as a solicitor. It includes a register of regulated solicitors, guidance on choosing and using a solicitor, and information about claiming compensation for money owed by a solicitor.

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