Freelance Solicitors PI Insurance

Freelance Solicitors Professional Indemnity Insurance — Market Overview

Updated for 2026

Since the SRA rule changes in late 2019, the freelance solicitor model has grown — but the PI insurance market for this sector remains specialist and, for reserved work, limited.

Market Background

Since the SRA rule changes in late 2019, a new route for self-employed solicitors was introduced under the title of Freelance Solicitor. This allows solicitors to practise on their own account without needing to set up a traditional law firm, provided certain criteria are met.

At the same time, the professional indemnity insurance market was facing significant challenges. A thematic review by Lloyd's of London — which has historically provided much of the capacity for solicitor PI insurance — reported approximately £347 million in losses across the legal sector over the five years to 2019, with around two-thirds of those losses relating to PI insurance. As a result, several insurers withdrew from the solicitors' PI market, creating a shortage of available cover and a difficult landscape for both new and existing practices.

The aftermath of the pandemic further limited new entrants to the market, particularly for newer freelance models. The market has stabilised in subsequent years but remains specialist, and capacity for freelance solicitors undertaking reserved work is genuinely limited.

How PLB Can Help

At Professional Liability Brokers, we specialise in sourcing Professional Indemnity Insurance for freelance solicitors. Whether you are setting up under the SRA's freelance model or launching a traditional regulated practice, we understand the market and can help you:

  • Navigate the eligibility criteria set by the SRA.
  • Access suitable and competitive PI insurance providers.
  • Secure appropriate cover for reserved and non-reserved legal work.
  • Advise on regulatory issues and help ensure ongoing compliance.
Reserved vs Non-Reserved — Market & Pricing Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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Freelance Solicitors PI Insurance Guide 2026

What insurers look for — helping you present your enquiry clearly.

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PLB Professional Indemnity Brokers is a trading style of Professional Liability Brokers Limited registered in England & Wales (No. 09847323). Professional Liability Brokers Limited is an Appointed Representative of Acrisure Eleven Network Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 314593).