Tag: CQS Policy Templates
-
Leeds Building Society – Shared Ownership Mortgage Requirements
Leeds Building Society conveyancing panel should be aware that it is a standard offer requirement that Leeds Building Society receives a copy of the Housing Association consent to their mortgage BEFORE funds are released. This lender policy requirement is missed by some firms (CQS or otherwise). Firms need ensure that this is submitted before the…
-
CQS Training Courses 2024
To assist solicitors in upholding their Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditations, Access Legal, a prominent legal technology provider authorised by The Law Society, has introduced updated courses aligned with the 2023 – 2024 syllabus. To uphold their CQS accreditations, firms need to complete the necessary courses within the specified timeframes mandated by the Law Society.…
-
CQS Business Continuity Policy/Plan
Accredited firms must develop bespoke CQS business continuity plans, tailored to operational dynamics, risks, and resources, considering COVID-19 challenges and cyber threats. Regular annual reviews are vital.
-
What is in a CQS Client Care Policy?
The 2022 version of the CQS Core Practice Management Standards (CPMS) mandates CQS firms to establish a policy addressing client care (s6.1). So what does a CQS Client Care Policy Include? As will all policies, the CQS Client Care Policy will need to be drafted or adapted based on the specific approach that your firm takes…
-
CQS Anti-Bribery Policy: Considerations
The Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is the recognised quality standard for SRA-regulated firms in residential conveyancing. It sets out the standards of competence, risk management, and client service levels expected of practices. An essential element of the CQS Core Practice Management Standard is the anti-bribery policy. This policy must clearly articulate the firm’s dedication to…
-
Operational Policies for CQS Conveyancing
CQS accredited firms must implement all required modifications to their firm’s policies, controls, and procedures (PCPs). It is essential to provide comprehensive training to staff regarding these changes, clearly documenting the effective date and the potential assessment regime in place, especially in anticipation of the CQS renewal. The adjustments to the CQS Core Practice Management…
-
Updating your CQS AML Policy
As a lawyer you could be forgiven for thinking that money laundering regulations are evolving every day. It is crucial for CQS accredited firms to diligently uphold their AML Policies controls and Procedures. This involves ensuring that all documentation is kept up to date in line with regulatory changes to optimise full compliance. Everyone in…
-
Preparing a Stamp Duty Land Tax policy
In light of the recent changes to the CQS Core Practice Management Standards (CPMS), it is imperative for CQS-affiliated firms to establish a comprehensive policy pertaining to Stamp Duty Land Tax, as stipulated in section 5.15. This adjustment underscores the importance of compliance with regulatory requirements. CQS compliance consultants strongly advise firms to review and…
-
CQS Risk Management Policy – Guidance
The largest chapter in the new CQS Standards is section five, and it is appropriately so since it addresses risk management. This aspect significantly influences all other parts of the Standards by mandating firms to maintain a compliance plan and a risk register as well as a comprehensive Risk Management Policy. Ensuring effective risk management…
-
Drafting A CQS Dealing with Lender Policy Template
Section 6.4 of the 2022 Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) Core Practice Management Standards (CPMS) requires CQS-accredited law firms to have a Dealing with Lenders Policy in place. However, it has been brought to my attention that SROs face challenges in formulating this particular CQS policy. A meticulously formulated CQS Dealing with Lenders Policy, should accurately…