Understanding SLAPPs: SRA Guidance, Caselaw & Disciplinary Outcomes

Introduction

In May 2024, the SRA issued a warning about Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (‘SLAPPs’) and there have been a few notable regulatory cases on the point since then. The SRA regards them as a ‘misuse of the legal system’ and the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 recognises how SLAPPs can have a real impact on freedom of speech, with particular reference to suppressing genuine reports of economic crime.

However, the SRA’s concerns are broader. They are ultimately concerned with whether professional standards have been breached, and their powers can be exercised in circumstances where a claim based upon SLAPP grounds has been allowed to proceed. Indeed, many SLAPP claims do not reach the court, or they may not squarely meet the section 195 definition of a SLAPP, but this does not prevent the SRA from taking action.

This webinar is particularly relevant for litigators, compliance advisers, and those representing or advising solicitors in SDT proceedings, where SLAPP-related conduct may be under scrutiny.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• Understand what constitutes a SLAPP
• Explore how they developed
• When and how did the adverse publicity about them arise?
• Analyse the SRA attitude to SLAPPs
• Examples of key regulatory and disciplinary cases and the issues arising at the SDT

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Tuesday 27th January 2026

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