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How to stay compliant when onboarding new clients part 2: 3 digital tools to complete a compliant conflict check 

Category: Blog, Practice Management, Staying Compliant 17th January 2025

Onboarding new clients requires law firms to conduct thorough conflict checks in compliance with the SRA’s Code of Conduct. While many firms still rely on manual checks, using digital tools within Osprey can significantly enhance the process, ensuring greater efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.

By implementing Osprey’s comprehensive features, firms can avoid costly mistakes, streamline their processes, and maintain the highest ethical standards. In this guide, we explore three key tools within Osprey that can help law firms complete compliant conflict checks and simplify client onboarding. 

For more information, please visit the SRA conflict of interest here.

1. Case management software with integrated conflict check features

One of the most effective tools for conducting compliant conflict checks is case management software. These systems centralise all client and matter information, making it easy to search for existing relationships and identify potential conflicts. Osprey Approach integrates conflict-checking features directly into its case management platform, enabling firms to quickly identify any conflicts during the client onboarding process.

When a new matter is created, Osprey automatically triggers a conflict check by searching your existing client database. The system cross-references relevant details, such as opposing parties or related matters, to flag any potential conflicts before the firm takes on a new client. This ensures that no conflict is overlooked and that your firm remains compliant with the SRA’s strict requirements.

Key benefits:

  • Consistency: The standardised conflict-checking flow within Osprey ensures your firm follows a reliable, repeatable process for every matter.
  • Automation: Conflict checks are automatically triggered when creating a new matter, reducing the risk of human error.
  • Centralised data: A centralised database within Osprey makes it easy to cross-check client details and quickly identify any conflicts.
  • Colour-coded conflict flags: Osprey uses colour-coding to highlight potential conflicts based on matching data, making it easier for staff to review and assess risk.

    By utilising case management software with built-in conflict check features like Osprey Approach, firms can streamline the client onboarding process while remaining compliant with the SRA Code of Conduct. 

2. Case management software for efficient conflict checks

Rather than relying on outdated internal databases or manually reviewing files, many law firms today rely on their case management software to streamline and automate conflict checks. By using a robust case management system, like Osprey, firms can centralise client information and easily search for potential conflicts within the database, reducing human error and increasing efficiency.

Osprey automatically cross-references new clients and matters against the existing database of clients, opposing parties, and related matters, ensuring potential conflicts are flagged before a new matter is accepted. This automated approach eliminates the need for manual conflict searches, which can be time-consuming and prone to mistakes.

Key benefits:

  • Automation: Reduces the risk of human error by automatically triggering conflict checks when a new matter is created.
  • Efficiency: Speeds up the conflict check process, saving time and resources by centralising client data in one platform.
  • Accuracy: Ensures all potential conflicts are identified quickly and effectively, based on comprehensive client data and case details.
  • Centralised database: All client and matter information is stored in one place, making it easy to conduct conflict checks and ensuring nothing is missed.

3. Workflow automation for conflict checks 

 Osprey Approach prompts employees to follow a defined process, including reviewing client details, checking for conflicts within the firm’s database, and flagging any conflicts for further action. This process helps law firms streamline their conflict check procedures, reduce administrative burden, and ensure compliance. 

Key benefits: 

  • Consistency: Workflow automation ensures that conflict checks are carried out in a consistent manner every time, reducing the risk of errors. 
  • Efficiency: Automated prompts save time and ensure that employees don’t miss critical steps in the conflict-checking process. 
  • Auditability: All steps in the conflict-checking process are logged within Osprey, making it easy to track and audit compliance. 

Osprey’s conflict of interest tool helps law firms maintain high standards of compliance. 

Streamline your conflict checks and stay compliant with Osprey Approach 

Choosing the right tools to conduct conflict checks is an essential step for law firms looking to stay compliant with the SRA’s Code of Conduct. Osprey Approach provides a comprehensive solution to streamline the conflict-checking process through automation, workflow management, and integration with your firm’s case management system. 

By leveraging Osprey’s conflict-checking features, law firms can save time, reduce errors, and ensure that their conflict checks are thorough and consistent. This helps firms not only meet their regulatory obligations but also build trust with clients, mitigate risks, and protect their reputation in the legal industry. 

Integrating digital tools like Osprey Approach into your conflict-checking process is essential for law firms that want to stay ahead of regulatory requirements while providing efficient, compliant services to their clients. 

Book a consultation to discover how Osprey Approach can help you effectively complete conflict of interest checks.  

For further advice and best practices you can view parts one and two of our SRA Conflict of Interest guides. 

Disclaimer  

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For detailed guidance on the SRA Conflict of Interest Rules, please visit the official Solicitors Regulation Authority website. 

Disclaimer

This guide is not intended as legal advice. For detailed guidance on the SRA Code of Conduct, please visit the official SRA website.