DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

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DBS Checks For Lawyers, Solicitors And More

From paralegals to lawyers, solicitors and more, the legal industry has many different professions and requirements. With such a diverse range of careers in the industry, it can be challenging to understand where DBS checks fit into it all. 

In this blog, Care Check will provide you with information about what DBS check law professionals need, if you can be a lawyer with a criminal record, and what DBS checks are.

Do Lawyers Need A DBS Check?

Lawyers in the UK may need to obtain a DBS check, depending on their specific role and the type of work they will be doing in their industry. DBS checks are generally required for individuals who work in positions of trust, such as lawyers, as they may have access to sensitive information and may work closely with vulnerable individuals. 

The requirement for a DBS check can vary depending on the type of law that a lawyer practices and the specific organisation they work for. Some organisations may require all employees to have a DBS check, while others may only require it for certain roles or individuals. 

Do Solicitors And Paralegals Need A Dbs Check?

Most solicitors and paralegals in the UK will be required to obtain a DBS check, though this depends on the specific role and responsibilities of the position, as well as the specific organisation they work for.

Solicitors, who are qualified legal professionals, may be required to have a DBS check if they are working in a specific area of law, such as criminal law or if they are working with vulnerable groups, such as children or the elderly. 

Paralegals, who assist solicitors in their work, may also be required to have a DBS check depending on the type of work they will be doing and the organisation they work for. Some organisations may require all employees to have a DBS check, while others may only require it for certain roles or individuals.

DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

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What Are The Different Types Of DBS Checks? 

The type of DBS check that a lawyer needs in the UK will depend on the specific role and responsibilities of their position. There are three levels of DBS check: basic, standard, and enhanced. Here are some more specifics:

  • Basic DBS Check: This check is the lowest level of check and is typically only used for roles where a low level of trust is required. It will reveal any unspent convictions or cautions on an individual’s criminal record. 
  • Standard DBS Check: This check is for roles where a higher level of trust is required. It will reveal any spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings on an individual’s criminal record.
  • Enhanced DBS Check: This is the most comprehensive check and is typically used for roles that involve working with vulnerable groups, such as children or the elderly. It will reveal any information held by the police, including spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings, as well as any other relevant non-conviction-related information held by the police.

What DBS Check Do Lawyers Need?

For lawyers, an Standard DBS check is usually required upon entering the industry, as this will reveal more about an individual’s suitability for a role. An Enhanced DBS check ensures that individuals working in positions of trust, such as lawyers, do not have a history of criminal activity that would make them unsuitable for the role and could be required for some positions working with vulnerable groups. 

Can You Be A Lawyer With A Criminal Record?

Yes, you can be a lawyer with a criminal record, but it may be more difficult and will depend on the specific circumstances. The Law Society, which regulates the legal profession in England and Wales, does not have a blanket policy on whether individuals with criminal records can become lawyers. The Law Society considers each case on an individual basis and takes into account the nature and seriousness of the criminal conviction, how long ago the conviction occurred, and any evidence of rehabilitation.

Individuals with a criminal record may be asked to disclose this information to the Law Society as part of their application to become a lawyer. The candidate will likely also be required to provide a DBS check. The Law Society will review the information provided and make a decision on whether to admit the individual to the profession.

That said, it is important to note that even if an individual with a criminal record is admitted to the legal profession, they may still face challenges in finding employment as a lawyer, as some employers may be hesitant to hire them.

 

Do You Need A DBS Check?

Care Check can apply for a DBS check on behalf of your organisation, or you can apply for an Individual DBS Check, depending on the type of check required. We are a leading umbrella body for the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and have been named one of the top 10 providers for criminal record checks in the UK.

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