Initial entry of a firm onto FAMS

Any firm intending to undertake legal aid work must be entered on FAMS before any solicitor employed by the firm can carry out that work. A member of staff within the firm can start this process by a telephone call or in writing. We will need basic details such as:

  • The name of the firm
  • Address
  • Telephone and fax numbers
  • Trading start date.

We will then:

  • Enter the firm on to our  central database
  • Provide a firm code number (five numeric digits)
  • Send the FAMS New firm registration form and ask for the details of all solicitors who need a link to the firm. The mandate must be signed by the senior partner and returned to us with all relevant documentation. This could include a copy of the senior partner’s practising certificate and a VAT certificate (if applicable). Our Receipts and Payment Department will write to the firm telling them we have activated the code and it can now be used. We will send solicitors who need a link to the firm a FAMS registration form and mandate.