Solicitors are to receive letters this week from the Law Society warning them that their websites are in breach of new advertising guidelines.
The guidelines came into operation on February 1st, and prohibit advertising that might encourage litigation, especially in the area of personal injury.
For example, advertisements that refer to "no win, no fee"; offer hospital visits or wheelchair accessible offices; or highlight the personal injury aspect of a solicitor's practice, are all now banned.
Advertising is also prohibited close to places such as hospitals, where they could be seen by people in a vulnerable state.
The regulations have been circulated to all members of the Law Society, and all members are expected to comply or face disciplinary proceedings.
The director-general of the society, Mr Ken Murphy, said officials have been examining the websites of certain firms who have not yet brought them into line with the new regulations. "We will be writing to them as a first step before any disciplinary action is taken," he said.
One of the most visible places for promotion of solicitors is the Golden Pages, where there are 62 pages of advertisements. However, this advertising is to become a thing of the past, following meetings between the management of the Golden Pages and officials from the Law Society.