Jul 2, 2014 · The Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) is a quality assurance standard designed for organisations: The LAA has recently reviewed and updated the SQM Standard and SQM Guidance. The revised...

What is the SQM? The Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) is owned by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) and was developed to help ensure that: Members of the public in need of specialist advice receive a quality service; and

SQM holders should be aware of the environment in which they operate and develop their services to meet the needs of their clients and their community. You should ensure that your service is...

Apr 4, 2022 · Updates are being made to the Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) standard which will be coming into force on 1 October 2022. The new SQM standard will apply to all applications for a desktop audit and...

Oct 31, 2014 · In the run up to the new crime contracts, some firms will be gearing up for a Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) audit. Vicky Ling shares her top tips. The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) will accept either Lexcel or the SQM for the purposes of holding a contract.

The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) has reviewed and updated the Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) Standard and SQM Guidance. A summary of the main changes are set out in the table below.

These new requirements will come into effect on 1st October 2022 and will apply to all audit activity taking place after this date (including Desktop applications, Pre and Post Quality Mark audits).

The Speciality Quality Mark (SQM) is owned by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA). This Quality Assurance Standard must be obtained by firms that are not LEXCEL Accredited and hold either a Criminal Contract or Civil Contract.

What Is SQM? All holders of a Legal Aid Contract are required to hold (or be in the process of achieving) the Specialist Quality Mark (SQM). The SQM is designed to ensure that an organisation is well run and able to offer excellent client care.

Our online Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) Standard Training Requirements Course covers key topics to ensure compliance with the SQM Standard and other regulations. The SQM Standard requires firms to provide training for staff covering: Anti-Money Laundering.