Navigating the Role of a Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) – Insights from an Expert

Title: Access Legal to Release Updated eLearning Course on How to be a COLP

In today’s ever-evolving regulatory landscape, the role of a Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) is more crucial than ever in ensuring law firms manage risks and adhere to legal, ethical, and regulatory standards. Access Legal is set to release an updated eLearning course, How to be a COLP, on 07.08.24, aimed at demystifying the role and offering guidance on how to excel as a COLP.

The course, designed for both new and existing COLPs, will cover key aspects of the role, including risk assessment, creating a compliance plan, identifying and reporting breaches, and fostering a culture of compliance within the firm. Expert contributors, such as Piers Leigh-Pollitt, Partner and COLP at Doyle Clayton, will provide insights and practical advice based on their experiences in the field.

In a recent interview, Piers shared his journey to becoming a COLP, highlighting the challenges and rewards of the role. He emphasized the importance of applying SRA principles, such as acting in the best interests of clients, and the need for empathy, logic, and problem-solving skills in effective COLPs.

Piers also reflected on his proudest moments as a COLP, including resolving challenging client issues and implementing strategies to improve firm-wide compliance. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and growth in the role, acknowledging that it takes time to fully grasp the responsibilities of a COLP.

For aspiring and existing COLPs looking to enhance their skills and knowledge, Piers recommended the How to be a COLP course by Access Legal, citing its comprehensive overview of the regulatory framework and practical guidance on leading a culture of compliance within a firm. He also praised Access Legal’s compliance update webinars and online training modules for their user-friendly and informative content.

Overall, the upcoming release of the How to be a COLP course by Access Legal promises to be a valuable resource for COLPs looking to excel in their role and make a positive impact on their firms. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in legal compliance education.