Professional Practice Updates - May 2016

We have updated the guidance on client communication (Rule B4) and the new guidance will come into effect on 1 June 2016.

We have made substantial changes as this is the first full review of the guidance since 2005, when it became mandatory for solicitors to issue terms of business letters to clients in all transactions (subject to certain limited exceptions).

We would encourage you to familiarise yourself with the terms of the new guidance before 1 June.

If you have any questions, contact the professional practice team on 0131 226 8896 or email profprac@lawscot.org.uk.

The Standard Clauses Working Party has produced a new version of the Scottish Standard Clauses (Edition 2), which will come into effect on 3 May 2016. Edition 2 updates and amends Version 1.

Explanatory Note on Scottish Standard Clauses – Edition 2

Scottish Standard Clauses (Edition 2)

Client Guide for Scottish Standard Clauses (Edition 2)

Practitioners Guide for Scottish Standard Clauses (Edition 2)

We have received a number of calls from solicitors seeking more information on LBTT and ADS.

Members who are looking for information on the Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) of LBTT may find the following links to Revenue Scotland webpages useful:

There is a page of FAQs which includes sections on ADS.

There is a page of ADS Background and also one of worked ADS examples.

Guidance specific to ADS is also available, as well as a page on “How the ADS works”.

The issue of what might constitute an “only or main residence” is addressed on this page.

Finally, there is the Legislative Guidance running to 64 pages.