SRA Recognised Bodies Regulations 2011 meaning

The SRA Recognised Bodies Regulations 2011 describe how incorporated law firms in England and Wales obtain and maintain SRA recognition as “recognised bodies” (as distinct from recognised sole practices and licensed bodies/ABSs). They formed part of the SRA Handbook 2011 and implemented the statutory concept of a recognised body under the Solicitors Act 1974 and Legal Services Act 2007. In practice, they governed applications for law firm authorisation, eligibility and suitability of managers and owners (including approval requirements), appointment of compliance officers (COLP and COFA), practising conditions, notifications of changes (such as acquisitions or changes of control), and withdrawal or suspension of recognition, alongside SRA enforcement powers. The regime is now largely superseded by the SRA Standards and Regulations (from 2019), in particular the SRA Authorisation of Firms Rules and related rules, but the 2011 Regulations remain relevant to legacy firms and historic compliance or disciplinary issues. The term and regulatory framework are specific to England and Wales; Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland have separate authorisation regimes operated by their respective Law Societies. Legal professionals use this term when advising on law firm structure, conversions (e.g., to ABS), approvals of managers/owners, and regulatory due diligence.