What are the rules about advertising specialist accreditation?

These are in s.36.4 and s.36.5 of the Solicitors Rule 2007 and state:

36. Advertising

A solicitor must not advertise the solicitor’s expertise or practice if that advertising:-

…

36.4 uses the words “accredited specialist” or a derivative of those words, including the associated post-nominals, unless the solicitor is an accredited specialist, in which case the accredited specialist must use those words, or a derivative of those words, including the associated post-nominals, in compliance with the agreement entered into by the accredited specialist with the Queensland Law Society concerning the use of those words, or derivates of those words, and the associated post-nominals;

36.5 uses the accredited specialist logo (reproduced below) except as permitted by the agreement entered into by the accredited specialist with the Queensland Law Society concerning use of the logo.

The Accredited Specialist logo:

You may only use the QLS accredited specialist logo and the words “accredited specialist” or a derivative of these words, if you are a QLS accredited specialist and if you comply with your agreement with QLS, including adhering to the QLS Specialist Accreditation Board’s Marketing Guidelines.

If you are a QLS accredited specialist you should also refer to the Specialist Accreditation Scheme Handbook 2011 (specifically page 8 Use of the Logo, and page 29 sections 6.3 Referrals and 6.4 Advertising).

For more information please contact Kristy Roodveldt at QLS on 3842 5929 or k.roodveldt@qls.com.au

Also see the FAQ Can I claim to be a specialist or expert?

Related FAQ:

Can I claim to be a specialist or expert?

What are the rules about solicitors’ advertising generally?

Whose details can appear on my law practice’s letterhead and business cards?