Private lives, public standards: balancing personal privacy with professional standards—Solicitors Journal
Senior associate Sheetul Sowdagur and trainee Emma Nightingale have contributed an article to Solicitors Journal discussing the limits of regulators’ reach.
In the article, they point out that regulatory bodies have broadened their oversight in recent years to extend to the private lives of regulated professionals, and unpack the implications of this, citing the decision by the Solicitor’s Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) to fine a former Partner of a City firm for inappropriate conduct, among others. They add that the growing influence of digital communication and increased public visibility further complicate this picture, and suggest regulators should avoid adopting a blanket approach and ensure interventions are proportionate.
There is a fine balance between professional conduct and professional freedoms… the actions of a professional, both inside and outside the workplace, can influence perceptions of competence, integrity and trustworthiness. However, there is also the need to avoid overreach in areas where personal conduct does not directly affect professional responsibilities.
The article is available to view at Solicitors Journal by subscription only.
Sheetul Sowdagur is a senior associate in the regulation and public law team, advising a broad spectrum of clients in connection with misconduct, competence, dishonesty, fraud, harassment, discrimination, and reputation management. Emma Nightingale is a trainee in the same team.
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