The Quality Practice Standard (QPS) recognises practices that have developed and adhere to standard internal processes designed to provide a consistent approach to management and to improve customer satisfaction.
QPS accredited firms are audited each year to ensure they comply with standards which go above the minimum requirements set out by legislation. Firms complying with QPS can use the QPS logo on their letterhead and promotional material.
QPS accredited legal practices are entitled to a 7% discount for the first year on professional indemnity insurance premiums, and 5% discount thereafter.
To register your firm’s interest in finding out more about how it can benefit from QPS, please complete a registration form.
QPS Workshop
To find out more about QPS you can also express your interest in a QPS training workshop or receive further information by emailing qps@lawsocietywa.asn.au.
For further information on QPS please click on the four tabs below:
The Standard is divided into five areas:
Procedures Manual
Each practice is required to have a manual setting out procedures specified by the Standard.
Taking Instructions
The practice must ensure that it has appropriate expertise to handle a particular matter and must ensure it effectively deals with any conflict of interest. The practice must confirm the basis upon which instructions are accepted, and costs are incurred, and identify and focus on clients’ expectations generally.
Handling the Matter
The practice shall have procedures for activity recording, file management and review, the recording of key dates and setting authority levels for personnel. In addition, provision must be made for progress reporting, the handling of subsequent instructions and/or variations to instructions and costs, and changes in personnel and billing.
Finishing the Matter
The practice must have procedures for reporting to the client and accounting for money, property, documents, files and security and confidentiality issues.
Other Procedures
The practice must establish appropriate procedures for the induction of personnel and training, access to reference materials and procedures for client redress.
Past Amendments to the Standard
- On 2 July 2002 the Council of the Law Society adopted several changes to the Quality Practice Standard. These polish its operation in key areas such as costs and trust funds. The amendments also introduce new provisions for accredited practices in the areas of privacy and technology. The amendments will be required to be observed by firms seeking accreditation or further accreditation after 1 January 2003.
- On 3 July 2007 the Council of the Law Society adopted amendments to the QPS Rule 5, Logo and Advertising, creating clauses 5.3 – 5.6.
- On 31 January 2012 the Council of the Law Society adopted amendments to the QPS Standard; QPS Rules and the adoption of some terms of reference to define the role of the QPS Committee. These changes to the Standard will apply on and from the first audit in 2013.
- In August 2022, the QPS was updated to make reference to the new Uniform Laws.
Disclaimer: The Law Society does not warrant or guarantee the work undertaken by any firm or individual listed or provided and is not liable in relation to any aspect of legal services they may provide to you.
