What Cybersecurity Measures Do Law Firms Need to Meet SRA Compliance?

Law firms handle highly sensitive client information, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. To protect client confidentiality and maintain regulatory compliance, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) expects firms to implement strong cybersecurity measures.

In practice, most compliant UK law firms implement 8–12 core security controls, including multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, secure backups, and staff cybersecurity training. For a typical 50-person law firm, implementing these protections usually forms part of a managed IT service costing £100–£150 per user per month.

The key is not just installing security tools but building a complete security framework that protects client data, prevents unauthorised access, and ensures business continuity.

The Cybersecurity Expectations of the SRA

This means firms must take reasonable steps to prevent cyber incidents such as:

• data breaches
• ransomware attacks
• phishing scams
• unauthorised access to case files

Many law firms align their cybersecurity practices with recognised frameworks such as:

• Cyber Essentials
• ISO27001
• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidance

These frameworks provide practical guidance on how to secure IT systems and demonstrate that a firm takes cybersecurity seriously.

The 10 Essential Cybersecurity Controls for Law Firms

Most secure law firms implement a layered approach to cybersecurity. The following 10 controls form the foundation of a strong legal cybersecurity strategy.

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an additional layer of security when accessing systems such as Microsoft 365, case management systems, and remote access tools. Even if passwords are compromised, MFA helps prevent unauthorised access.

2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Modern endpoint protection tools detect suspicious behaviour on devices and stop ransomware or malware before it spreads across the network.

3. Email Security and Phishing Protection

Phishing remains one of the most common attacks against law firms, particularly those involved in conveyancing. Advanced email filtering and phishing protection tools help block malicious emails.

4. Secure Cloud Backups

Backups are critical for recovering from ransomware or accidental data loss. Backups should be encrypted, tested regularly, and stored securely offsite.

5. Patch Management

Keeping operating systems and software up to date helps prevent attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities.

6. Device Encryption

Encryption ensures that if laptops or devices are lost or stolen, sensitive client data cannot be accessed.

7. Identity and Access Management

User permissions should be carefully controlled so employees only access the systems and information they require.

8. Security Awareness Training

Human error remains one of the biggest cybersecurity risks. Staff should receive regular training to recognise phishing emails and suspicious activity.

9. Network Monitoring

Continuous monitoring helps detect unusual behaviour and potential threats before they escalate into serious incidents.

10. Incident Response Planning

Every law firm should have a documented plan for responding to cybersecurity incidents, including procedures for containment, investigation, and communication.

Many law firms implement these protections as part of a fully managed IT service that includes monitoring, security tools, and support. To understand typical budgets and what services are usually included, see our guide on how much managed IT services cost for law firms in London.

The Biggest Cybersecurity Risks Facing UK Law Firms

Cybercrime targeting law firms continues to increase due to the value of legal data and financial transactions.

Some of the most common threats include:

• Phishing attacks targeting email accounts
• Business email compromise during financial transactions
• Ransomware attacks encrypting critical data
• Credential theft through weak passwords
• Insider threats from compromised accounts

Even a small cybersecurity incident can disrupt operations, damage reputation, and potentially lead to regulatory scrutiny.

As law firms begin adopting modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, it is important to ensure these tools are implemented within a secure and compliant environment. Firms should establish clear policies governing how AI tools can be used and how client data must be protected. You can learn more in our guide on how AI can improve productivity in law firms while maintaining security and compliance

How Law Firms Can Achieve Cyber Essentials or ISO27001

Many law firms pursue recognised security certifications to demonstrate their commitment to protecting client data.

Cyber Essentials

Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification that verifies basic cybersecurity protections are in place.

Typical timeline:

4–8 weeks

• secure firewall configuration
• access control
• malware protection
• patch management
• secure device configuration

ISO27001

ISO27001 is a more comprehensive information security management framework.

Typical timeline:

4–12 months

This standard requires:

• formal security policies
• risk assessments
• security governance
• ongoing monitoring and improvement

Many growing law firms start with Cyber Essentials and later progress to ISO27001 as their security maturity increases.

How Often Should Law Firms Review Their Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is not a one-time project. It requires continuous monitoring and regular reviews.

A typical governance schedule includes:

Activity	Frequency
Security monitoring	Continuous
Vulnerability scans	Monthly
Staff security training	Quarterly
IT strategy review	Quarterly
Security audit	Annually

Regular reviews help ensure that cybersecurity controls remain effective as the firm grows and new threats emerge.

Example: Helping a London Law Firm Improve Cybersecurity

A 45-person London law firm recently reviewed its cybersecurity after experiencing several phishing attempts targeting its finance team.

The firm implemented several improvements including:

• multi-factor authentication across Microsoft 365
• advanced endpoint security protection
• secure cloud backup with recovery testing
• staff phishing awareness training

Within a few months the firm significantly reduced security risks and achieved Cyber Essentials certification, providing additional reassurance to clients.

Why London Law Firms Work With Techsperience

Techsperience provides managed IT and cybersecurity services for law firms across London and the South East, supporting legal practices with 20–150 employees.

The company specialises in helping law firms maintain secure and compliant technology environments through:

• legal-sector IT expertise
• Cyber Essentials and ISO27001 security alignment
• Microsoft 365 security configuration
• advanced endpoint protection and monitoring
• secure backup and disaster recovery
• quarterly strategic IT reviews (vCIO)

By combining cybersecurity expertise with knowledge of the legal sector, Techsperience helps firms reduce risk while maintaining efficient and reliable IT systems.

Many law firms implement these protections as part of a managed IT service. See our guide on how much managed IT services cost for law firms in London.

Book a Cybersecurity Assessment for Your Law Firm

Understanding your firm’s cybersecurity posture is the first step toward improving protection and meeting regulatory expectations.

A cybersecurity assessment typically reviews:

• current security controls
• potential vulnerabilities
• compliance gaps
• recommendations for improvement

This helps law firms build a clear cybersecurity roadmap while ensuring client data remains protected.

Techsperience provides managed IT services for law firms across London and the South East, supporting legal practices with 20–150 employees with cybersecurity, compliance, and strategic IT planning. Our team specialises in helping firms meet SRA expectations while improving productivity and reducing technology risk.

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