Is your claim at risk? Make sure you know who is really doing your litigation work

A recent High Court ruling has made waves across the legal sector, highlighting an important point for all business owners. The court drew a clear line between who can and cannot formally act in litigation, confirming that only solicitors with practising certificates or others specifically authorised are permitted to do so.

What lessons can business owners learn from this case? 

The court made it clear that support staff, no matter how experienced or senior, cannot sign court documents, issue proceedings, or take other formal steps unless they are properly authorised to do so. 

That might sound technical, but the point is simple. Litigation is not just paperwork, judgment calls need to be made, deadlines and strict protocols need to be followed. The law says that responsibility must sit with qualified solicitors who are authorised to act. 

The risk is that if a firm allows someone without that authorisation to issue proceedings or sign important court documents, the whole case could be challenged or even struck out. For a business trying to recover money or resolve a dispute, that can mean delay, extra cost and real frustration. 

At Harper James, we take that responsibility seriously. Every case we handle is overseen by an authorised solicitor who is accountable for the work being done. Our paralegals and trainees play an important role, but always under proper supervision and within clear professional boundaries. 

For you, that means peace of mind. You get the benefit of a responsive, efficient legal team, but with the confidence that every key decision, every signature, and every step is taken by someone who’s qualified and authorised to do it. 

Ian Carson, Head of Dispute Resolution at Harper James, comments: 

The decision highlights that being regulated and being authorised are not the same thing. At Harper James, we make sure that every client’s case is overseen by an authorised solicitor, supported by a well trained and properly supervised team.” 

While this ruling has prompted concern across parts of the legal industry, for Harper James clients it serves as reassurance that you are in safe hands.