Checking a Lawyer's Professional Credentials

Confirm identity and enrolment

Ask for the lawyer's full professional name and the bar council or professional body with which they are enrolled. Use the relevant official channel where a public verification facility is available.

Distinguish a lawyer from a firm

A firm name, office brand or directory listing is not itself proof that a particular individual is authorised to practise. Confirm the person responsible for the work and the capacity in which they act.

Document the engagement

Keep a written record of scope, fees, client identity, contact channels and responsibility for documents. Do not rely on a directory listing as a substitute for your own checks.