Solicitors Act 1974

44B Power of society to examine files in connection with complaints E+W

(1) Where the Council are satisfied that it is necessary to do so for the purpose of investigating any complaint made to the Society—

(a) alleging professional misconduct by a solicitor; or

(b) relating to the quality of any professional services provided by a solicitor,

the Society may give notice to the solicitor or his firm requiring the production or delivery to any person appointed by the Society, at a time and place to be fixed by the Society, of all documents in the possession of the solicitor or his firm in connection with the matters to which the complaint relates (whether or not they relate also to other matters).

(2) Sub–paragraphs (2) to (12) of paragraph 9 of Schedule 1, together with paragraphs 12 to 16 of that Schedule, shall apply in relation to the powers conferred by subsection (1) as they apply in relation to the powers conferred by sub–paragraph (1) of paragraph 9, and accordingly in those provisions—

(a) any reference to a person appointed, or to a requirement, under that sub–paragraph shall be construed as including a reference to a person appointed, or to a requirement, under subsection (1); and

(b) any reference to any such documents as are mentioned in that sub–paragraph shall be construed as including a reference to any such documents as are mentioned in subsection (1).