No-deal qualification update

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has confirmed changes to rules on qualification for non-UK solicitors in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Currently, EU lawyers can apply for exemptions on a topic by topic basis from the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS). Under World Trade Organisation rules, however, preferential treatment can no longer be given to EU lawyers. In future all foreign lawyers will be able to apply for exemptions, but these will only be offered on the basis that they cover the entirety of either or both parts of the QLTS.