How to returning to the practice?

If you have not held a practising certificate for more than 12 months, then you will become subject to section 12C of the Solicitor Act 1974. This means that if you wish to apply for a practising certificate, you will need to notify SRA 6 weeks in advance of your intention. You will need to complete form RFs12, which can be obtained by contacting the Contact Centre. To speed up the process of applying for your certificate once the RFs12 form has been completed, you can fax it directly to the Operations Unit on +44 (0)207 320 5862 .

Completed forms should be returned with the appropriate fee, so that a new practising certificate can be issued to you. There are no special conditions that apply, nor are there any compulsory courses, other than normal continuing professional development requirements (CPD).

Please note that you will be covered to practice, when your section 12C form (RFs12) has been processed (if applicable) and your application form, for practising certificate form RF3) and fee has been received. May we suggest that you check with SRA before you commence practice.

If you would like to request an application form for a practising certificate (RF3) and/or RFs12 or if you have any further queries, please contact the Contact Centre on 0870 606 2555. Our lines are open 09.00 to 17.00 Monday to Friday. If you are calling from overseas please use +44 (0) 1527 504450. Please note calls may be monitored/recorded for training purposes. Alternatively, you can e-mail us at contactcentre@sra.org.uk