It may be unsavoury to report a colleague but it is more unsavoury not to in such circumstances. The regulation protects you against any unjust criticism, overriding any duty of confidentiality you may feel towards a colleague. This may be where it gets more difficult. The Statement of Ethics says we should work with our colleagues to uphold the integrity of the profession and honourable standards and prin-ciples. There is not much reluctance about reporting what seems to be improper advertising.
Advertising shows the very public face of the profession.
It reflects upon the profession as a whole. To mix metaphors horribly - some solicitors are no more afraid of walking over graves than making mountains out of molehills. As I said in October, allegations against other solicitors should not be used as a tactic. Very often it will be better to raise your concern with the solicitor before taking precipitate action because you may have got it all wrong. The English Guide to the Professional Conduct of Solicitors contains a principle which places a duty upon solicitors to report any serious misconduct to the Solicitors Complaints Bureau.