Cyber Essentials · Legal Sector

Cyber Security
Your Clients
Demand It.

Law firms handle some of the most sensitive data in the UK. Cyber Essentials certification protects your client confidentiality, supports SRA compliance, and demonstrates your firm's commitment to responsible data stewardship.

Contact Us Today Why Legal Firms Need This
80%
of cyber attacks prevented by Cyber Essentials controls
92%
fewer insurance claims for certified organisations (NCSC)
£320
starting cost for official IASME assessment + VAT
v3.2
latest framework version, effective April 2025
Recognised by
NCSC Government-Backed Scheme IASME Certified Framework SRA Compliance Aligned UK GDPR Article 32 Support Free Cyber Insurance Included*
Why Legal Firms Act Now

Your Clients' Data is a Prime Target

Legal practices hold privileged communications, financial records, and sensitive personal data. Cybercriminals know this — and so do your regulators. Cyber Essentials is the UK government's minimum baseline standard and the most credible way to demonstrate your firm takes security seriously.

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SRA Code of Conduct Alignment

The SRA expects firms to manage risk and protect client confidentiality. Certification provides documented evidence that your IT controls meet the government's recommended baseline.

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UK GDPR Article 32 Evidence

Cyber Essentials is a demonstrable "appropriate technical measure" under UK GDPR — directly supporting your ICO compliance position and reducing breach risk.

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Government Contract Eligibility

Certification is mandatory for any supplier bidding on UK government contracts involving personal data — including legal service frameworks.

Cyber Essentials certification is a strong, demonstrable way to evidence appropriate technical security measures under Article 32 of UK GDPR.
UK GDPR Compliance Guidance
SRA Solicitors Regulation Authority expects firms to implement cyber controls protecting client confidentiality
ICO Information Commissioner's Office can fine firms up to £17.5m for inadequate data security under UK GDPR
NCSC National Cyber Security Centre endorses Cyber Essentials as the baseline standard for all UK organisations
The Certification Framework

Five Controls That Protect Your Practice

Cyber Essentials v3.2 is built around five technical controls that the NCSC has identified as preventing the vast majority of common cyber attacks targeting organisations like yours.

01
Firewalls & Gateways
Creates a secure boundary between your firm's network and the internet, blocking unauthorised access to case management systems and client files.
02
Secure Configuration
Ensures all devices and software are set up securely from the outset, removing default passwords and unnecessary features that attackers exploit.
03
User Access Control
Restricts access to client data and practice systems on a need-to-know basis, with multi-factor authentication for all privileged accounts.
04
Malware Protection
Detects and blocks malicious software — including ransomware — before it can compromise your client files or disrupt your operations.
05
Security Update Management
Ensures all software and firmware is patched promptly, closing the vulnerabilities that attackers use as entry points into legal practice systems.
How We Work With You

Certification in Four Guided Steps

Step 01
Gap Analysis
We assess your current IT infrastructure against the Cyber Essentials v3.2 controls, identifying exactly what needs to be addressed before submission.
Step 02
Remediation Support
Our experts work alongside your IT team to close any gaps — whether that's configuring firewalls, enabling MFA, or updating patch management processes.
Step 03
Assessment Submission
We guide your senior responsible officer through the self-assessment questionnaire submission via IASME's secure platform, ensuring accuracy at every step.
Step 04
Certification & Badge
Once approved, you receive your Cyber Essentials certificate, digital badge, and access to free cyber liability insurance (for eligible firms).
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cyber Essentials required for law firms?
While not universally mandated by law, the SRA Code of Conduct requires firms to manage risk and protect client confidentiality — obligations that Cyber Essentials directly addresses. It is also a contractual requirement for legal firms bidding on government work involving personal data. With v3.3 introducing stricter requirements from April 2026, acting now puts your firm ahead of the curve.
How does certification support SRA compliance?
The SRA expects solicitors to implement proportionate security measures. Cyber Essentials provides a documented, government-recognised framework that demonstrates your firm has taken concrete steps to protect client data — invaluable if the SRA ever investigates a data incident at your practice.
How long does it take to get certified?
With Digital Attitude's guided support, most small to medium law firms achieve certification within two to four weeks. We handle the preparation and submission support, so your fee earners can stay focused on client work throughout the process.
What does certification cost?
IASME assessment fees start at £320 + VAT and are tiered by organisation size. UK firms with turnover under £20m also receive free cyber liability insurance upon certification. Digital Attitude provides expert support on top of the assessment fee — contact us for a tailored quote based on your firm's size and IT environment.
What is Cyber Essentials Plus and do we need it?
Cyber Essentials Plus includes the same five controls but adds independent, hands-on technical verification by a qualified assessor. It is increasingly required on MOD and higher-risk public sector frameworks. For most law firms, standard Cyber Essentials is the appropriate starting point — we'll advise on whether Plus is warranted for your specific client base.
What are the v3.3 changes coming in April 2026?
Version 3.3 introduces stricter requirements around cloud services, multi-factor authentication, and software security. Firms achieving certification now under v3.2 will be well-positioned for renewal under the updated framework. We keep all our clients informed and prepared ahead of every annual update cycle.
Get Certified

Ready to Protect Your Practice?

Speak to the Digital Attitude team about Cyber Essentials certification tailored to the specific needs of your legal practice. We understand the SRA landscape, your client obligations, and the technical realities of legal IT environments.

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Call Us 07851 896 097
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Email Us help@digitalattitude.co.uk
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Website www.digitalattitude.co.uk

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