About the Ombudsman

Definitions

Before reading about the Ombudsman’s duties and powers, please note some important terms:

Professional body

On this web site, the term professional body means

The Law Society of Scotland, or
The Faculty of Advocates.

Practitioner

On this web site, the term practitioner means

a solicitor who is a member of The Law Society of Scotland, or
an advocate who is a member of The Faculty of Advocates, or
a conveyancing or executry practitioner regulated by the Law Society of Scotland.

What does the Ombudsman do?

The Ombudsman’s duties and powers are fixed by Parliament and Scottish Ministers. The Ombudsman investigates complaints about the way a professional body, such as the Law Society of Scotland or the Faculty of Advocates, has handled a complaint against a solicitor or advocate. The Ombudsman’s role is to decide:

if the professional body has given each complaint proper attention;
if it has taken appropriate action on the basis of a fair and thorough examination of all the evidence; and
if it has acted reasonably, impartially and effectively.

If the professional body has refused to investigate your complaint the Ombudsman can investigate whether the professional body acted fairly and properly when it refused to investigate your complaint.

If the professional body has not completed an investigation, the Ombudsman can prepare an Opinion on the investigation if she thinks that her involvement is justified.

What does the Ombudsman not do?

The Ombudsman does not investigate any complaints you have about the solicitor or advocate you complained about to the professional body. The Ombudsman cannot act as an appeal from the professional body’s decision nor can she overturn any decision the professional body has taken on your complaint.

What is the basis of the Ombudsman’s powers?

The Ombudsman’s powers are set out in

How do I know if the Ombudsman can help me?

We hope the information on this web site will help you to decide if the Ombudsman can become involved with your particular case. If you are still unsure, then please contact the Ombudsman’s office. We will look at your circumstances, and tell you if we can help. If we cannot become involved we will explain why not, and let you know who may be able to help.

Source: http://www.slso.org.uk/about.shtml