CPD goes DVD

The first training DVD is available from the Update department for continuing professional development purposes

The Journal, November 2005, page 39

The Society has launched its first DVD for solicitors to use as part of their continuing professional development (CPD).

Rather than have to travel to conferences and lectures, solicitors will now be able to clock up additional CPD hours by watching and discussing the contents of the new DVD.

Developed by the Update department, the DVD features three hours of presentations on two disks, which must be viewed by a minimum of three people in a group as stipulated by CPD rules. If followed by at least one hour of discussion on issues raised, a further hour of CPD is accredited.

The presentations include talks from Bruce Ritchie on conflict of interest and confidentiality issues, and James Ness covering all aspects of the Solicitors’ Code of Conduct. Chief accountant Leslie Cumming explains the accounts rules and answers frequently asked questions on money laundering.

On the second disk former president David Preston looks at how to prepare your firm for the launch of Automated Registration of Title to Land (ARTL), while Philip Yelland of the Client Relations Office examines the role of communication in preventing complaints and the right steps to take to resolve situations quickly and amicably if you do receive any. Morag Newton, head of the Guarantee Fund section, describes how to prepare to get the best out of a Guarantee Fund inspection to make it all as straightforward as possible.

Iona Ritchie, head of Update, said: “The response to the idea has been terrific and we will be issuing a questionnaire with each DVD to give solicitors the chance to give their feedback – as we do at any event we hold.

“The Society is committed to providing the material needed to ensure that solicitors are kept fully up to date with changes in the law. The great thing about the DVD is that if at least three people watch it then it has only cost £33 per person – a fraction of what it would cost to send someone to a conference for a day.”