How Long Do Solicitors Keep Records UK

When a solicitor handles your case, whether it involves property, wills, disputes or business matters, they generate a large number of documents. Clients often wonder how long solicitors keep these records once a matter is complete. The answer depends on the type of case, legal and regulatory requirements, and the policies of the individual law firm. Understanding how long records are kept can be useful for clients who may need access to them years later.

Regulatory Requirements for Solicitors

Solicitors in England and Wales are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). The SRA requires firms to keep adequate records but does not specify one fixed retention period for all cases. Instead, firms must adopt policies that meet professional standards and protect client interests. This means that while there are general guidelines, the exact timeframe can vary depending on the nature of the matter and any risks associated with it.

Typical Retention Periods

For most types of legal work, solicitors will keep files for at least six years after the case has concluded. This reflects the limitation period under which legal claims can usually be brought. For example, in contract disputes, claims must normally be made within six years, so solicitors retain the documents in case they are needed for future reference or defence. In property transactions such as conveyancing, firms may keep records for even longer, sometimes fifteen years or more, because ownership and title issues can arise long after the original purchase.

Wills, Probate and Family Matters

In cases involving wills and probate, solicitors often retain documents for much longer, sometimes indefinitely. This is because the will only become relevant after the person has died, which could be decades after it was made. Similarly, records relating to family law matters may be kept for extended periods to ensure that important information is not lost. Firms often store original wills and deeds in secure facilities on behalf of clients, and these are kept until the client retrieves them or they are no longer required.

Digital and Paper Records

With the rise of digital systems, many firms now store client files electronically rather than keeping paper copies. This allows solicitors to retain documents securely for longer periods without using up physical storage space. When retention periods expire, paper files are usually securely shredded, and digital files are deleted in line with data protection rules. Clients can request copies of their records at any time while they are still being held.

Conclusion

Solicitors typically keep records for at least six years, but in many cases, particularly property and probate matters, records may be kept for much longer. The exact timeframe depends on the type of legal work and the policies of the firm. If you need access to documents from a past case, it is always worth contacting the solicitor to see if they still have the records.