Thinking of surrendering your practising certificate?

As you consider your options, it is worth bearing in mind is that you worked hard to attain the status of solicitor and it’s part of your professional identity. The badge of Scottish solicitor is well recognised and carries weight with stakeholders and business partners. It also means that you are part of a regulated profession. 
If you are planning on working overseas as a solicitor, in some jurisdictions you must have a practising certificate from your home jurisdiction. It's worth checking with the local Bar in the host jurisdiction.

Please note

• it is only by holding a practising certificate that you can call yourself a solicitor and become a partner in a Scottish law firm
• regulatory obligations – you are still subject to the complaints process for up to two years after you surrender your practising certificate
• you cannot continue to exercise the power of a Notary Public
• if you work in-house and surrender your practising certificate, your work will no longer be covered by Privilege
• there are a number of steps required to get your practising certificate back

More information

1. Maternity leave / taking a career break options
2. Getting your practising certificate back
3. Alternative membership options

Surrendering your practising certificate or switching membership category

Go to the member login area and click on the menu 'My Profile' and 'Change Details' tab. You will automatically have your name retained on the roll until the end of the practice year, after which you will have the option to renew. If you want to switch to become a non-practising member, just let one of our registrar’s team know.

Want to discuss your options?

If you want to talk through your options, we are happy to help. Please contact our Member Registration team on Tel: 0131 476 8367 or email member.registration@lawscot.org.uk. Alternatively you can contact one of our engagement managers.