If your firm is applying for authorisation with the SRA and intends to appoint individuals who are not automatically deemed approved, you will need to complete and submit the FA2 form. This form is used to request SRA approval for individuals to act as managers, owners, or compliance officers. It is a crucial part of your application if you are appointing anyone to these roles who does not hold an existing practising certificate or equivalent recognition. Getting it right first time helps avoid delays and ensures you can operate lawfully.
Here’s what you need to know about the FA2 and how to approach it.
This summary provides general information and does not constitute advice on any individual application circumstances.
1. What Is the FA2 Form?
The FA2 is the official application form used to request individual approval from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for people taking on certain key roles in an authorised law firm. These roles include manager, owner, COLP (Compliance Officer for Legal Practice), and COFA (Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration). The form is used where the individual is not automatically deemed approved under SRA rules.
This form enables the SRA to assess whether each individual is suitable to take on a position of responsibility within a regulated law firm. It requires detailed information about the person’s qualifications, professional history, character and suitability, and (if relevant) experience in compliance roles.
2. Who Needs to Submit an FA2?
An FA2 form must be submitted for each individual who will act as a manager, owner, COLP, or COFA in your firm and is not already deemed approved by the SRA.
You will need to submit an FA2 for individuals who:
- Are not solicitors, registered European lawyers (RELs), or registered foreign lawyers (RFLs)
- Have not previously been approved by the SRA in the same capacity
- Are not automatically deemed approved due to their existing regulatory status or role in a previously authorised firm
You will also need to submit a new FA2 form if your firm is appointing a new COLP or COFA and the individual is not already recognised by the SRA in that role.
3. What Does the SRA Look For?
When reviewing the FA2, the SRA will assess the individual’s character, professional background, and suitability for the role. This includes checking for any history of regulatory breaches, criminal convictions, financial misconduct, or dishonesty.
The individual must disclose any relevant information fully and accurately. Incomplete or misleading disclosures can result in delays or refusal.
The SRA may also request supporting documents such as a basic DBS check, a certificate of good standing from another regulator, or other background checks depending on the information disclosed in the application.
If you need help understanding who can take on certain roles or want to discuss your application, please feel free to contact us.
4. When Should You Submit the FA2?
The FA2 form must be submitted via the mySRA portal as part of your firm’s application for authorisation or when making a relevant change to your firm’s approved individuals. You should not appoint the individual to the role until the SRA has confirmed their approval.
Submitting the FA2 as early as possible helps avoid delays in the firm’s authorisation or changes to its management. Be sure that the information is complete and up to date, and that all required supporting documents are submitted at the same time.
If you are unsure whether someone needs to complete an FA2, or whether they are deemed approved, it is worth getting advice before submitting your application. Speak to our team today about completing your SRA application or if you need assistance with your law firm setup.
We have helped many law firms through the SRA authorisation process.
Conclusion
The FA2 is a key requirement for firms appointing individuals to regulated roles who are not automatically deemed approved. It allows the SRA to assess the individual’s suitability and ensure they meet the standards required to help manage a law firm.
If you need help preparing your FA2, or completing your SRA application, speak to Ben Trott who is on hand to help you every step of the way. We can help you wherever you are based. Call us on 0330 133 8783 or email info@marketinglawyers.co.uk.
