Unacceptable and Unreasonable Behaviour Policy

Introduction

I, Ryan Jarvis, trading as Ryan Jarvis Law®, am committed to fostering a professional, respectful, and safe working environment. This policy outlines the standards of acceptable behaviour expected from clients, employees, contractors, and any other third parties engaged with Ryan Jarvis Law®. It is based on good practice guidance from the Law Society, CILEx Regulation, and other relevant bodies governing the conduct of legal professionals in the UK.

Scope

This policy applies to all clients, employees, consultants, contractors, and other third parties who interact with Ryan Jarvis Law®. It covers all forms of communication and interaction, including in-person meetings, telephone conversations, written correspondence, and digital communications.

Objectives

To define and promote acceptable standards of behaviour.
To protect the well-being and safety of employees and clients.
To prevent harassment, discrimination, and abusive behaviour.
To maintain a professional and respectful working environment.
To outline the procedures for reporting and dealing with unacceptable behaviour.

Responsibilities

Sole Practitioner

I, Ryan Jarvis, am responsible for:

Ensuring the implementation and enforcement of this policy.
Providing training and guidance to staff on recognising and handling unacceptable behaviour.
Addressing reports of unacceptable behaviour promptly and effectively.

Staff Responsibilities

All staff members are required to:

Adhere to the standards of behaviour outlined in this policy.
Report any incidents of unacceptable behaviour to the Sole Practitioner.
Participate in training and awareness programmes related to this policy.

Clients and Third Parties

Clients and third parties are expected to:

Treat all members of Ryan Jarvis Law® with respect and courtesy.
Refrain from any form of abusive, discriminatory, or harassing behaviour.
Comply with the standards of behaviour as communicated by the firm.

Definitions of Unacceptable and Unreasonable Behaviour

Unacceptable and unreasonable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:

Harassment or discrimination based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
Physical violence or threats of violence.
Verbal abuse, including shouting, swearing, or making derogatory remarks.
Intimidation or bullying, whether in person or through electronic means.
Persistent or vexatious complaints or demands that unreasonably consume staff time and resources.
Inappropriate or unprofessional conduct during meetings, telephone calls, or in written or digital communications.

Procedures for Reporting Unacceptable Behaviour

Internal Reporting

Staff members should report any incidents of unacceptable behaviour to the Sole Practitioner as soon as possible.
The report should include details of the incident, the parties involved, and any witnesses.

External Reporting

Clients and third parties who wish to report unacceptable behaviour should contact Ryan Jarvis directly. Contact details are provided at the end of this policy.

Investigation and Resolution

All reports of unacceptable behaviour will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
The Sole Practitioner will conduct the investigation, maintaining confidentiality and impartiality.
Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. This may include warnings, mediation, or, in severe cases, termination of the business relationship.

Record Keeping

We will maintain records of:

All reports of unacceptable behaviour.
Details of investigations and outcomes.
Any actions taken to address unacceptable behaviour.

These records will be kept securely and confidentially.

Training

All staff will receive regular training on:

Identifying and managing unacceptable behaviour.
The firm’s procedures for reporting and dealing with such behaviour.
Promoting a respectful and professional working environment.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or when there are significant changes in relevant legislation or guidance. Updates will be communicated to all staff, and additional training will be provided if necessary.

Contact Information

If you have any questions about this Unacceptable and Unreasonable Behaviour Policy, please contact:

Ryan Jarvis

Ryan Jarvis Law®
Postal Point 428
Manchester
M8 2FS

Email: ryan.jarvis@ryanjarvis.law

Phone: 0161 528 9071

This Unacceptable and Unreasonable Behaviour Policy was last updated on 8th June 2024.