We protect the advocate to protect the process.” – AQLR
Together, we uphold justice by upholding each other
AQLR is an independent membership association. Nothing in this Code or any AQLR publication should be interpreted as replacing or modifying the professional obligations imposed by members’ own regulators or by statute. Members remain individually responsible for complying with the rules of their professional regulator.
AQLR is not a regulator, licensing authority or disciplinary body, and membership does not constitute regulatory accreditation or endorsement.
1. Purpose
- The Association of Qualified Legal Representatives (AQLR) is an independent membership organisation bringing together legal practitioners who undertake, or have an interest in, Qualified Legal Representative (QLR) work.
- This Code sets out the principles of membership and the expectations of those participating in AQLR activities.
- AQLR does not determine eligibility to undertake QLR work or appoint QLRs on behalf of the courts.
2. Principles of Membership
- Members are expected to:
- Treat fellow members, colleagues and others with courtesy, dignity and respect.
- Contribute positively to the exchange of knowledge, experience and good practice.
- Support a collaborative and inclusive membership community.
- Respect confidentiality and protect information shared through AQLR activities.
- Provide accurate information when describing their membership of the Association.
- Avoid representing AQLR membership as a professional qualification, accreditation or endorsement.
3. Professional Independence and Responsibilities
- Members remain individually responsible for complying with their applicable statutory duties, professional obligations and regulatory requirements.
- AQLR recognises the importance of independent professional judgement, appropriate preparation and effective advocacy in QLR work.
- The Association encourages members to share knowledge, participate in relevant training and professional development, and support one another in addressing the practical challenges of the QLR role.
4. Supporting Members
- AQLR seeks to provide a supportive environment in which members can discuss common challenges, share experiences and identify opportunities for improvement in QLR practice.
- Members are encouraged to raise matters of common concern through the Association’s established communication channels.
- AQLR may engage with relevant organisations and stakeholders on issues affecting its membership and the wider operation of the QLR scheme.
5. Confidentiality and Data Protection
- Members should respect the confidentiality of information shared through AQLR activities and comply with applicable data protection requirements.
- Confidential case information, court documents and information identifying parties or witnesses must not be disclosed through AQLR forums or activities unless disclosure is lawful and appropriately authorised.
6. Membership Concerns
- AQLR encourages members to resolve disagreements respectfully and constructively.
- Concerns relating to participation in AQLR activities or compliance with membership expectations may be considered by the Association in accordance with its membership rules and procedures.
- Any decision concerning membership relates solely to participation in AQLR and does not affect a practitioner’s professional authorisation or statutory eligibility to undertake QLR work.
- Matters falling within the responsibilities of professional regulators or the courts remain matters for those bodies.
7. Commitment to the Association
- By joining or renewing membership, members agree to respect the principles of this Code and contribute positively to the aims and activities of AQLR.