18Client documents (ASCR 14)

18 Client documents (ASCR 14)

(1)  A solicitor with designated responsibility for a client’s matter must ensure that, upon completion or termination of the law practice’s engagement –

(a) the client or former client; or

(b) another person authorised by the client or former client –

is given any client documents (or if they are electronic documents copies of those documents) as soon as reasonably possible when requested to do so by the client, unless there is an effective lien.

(2)  A solicitor or law practice may destroy client documents after a period of 7 years has elapsed since the completion or termination of the engagement, except where there are client instructions or legislation to the contrary.