The Law Society of Scotland was critcised by the ombudsman

The Council of the Law Society of Scotland approved the system as part of a move towards greater efficiency.

But legislation recently passed by the Scottish Parliament grants the society's council new powers which will allow it to speed up its complaints handling procedures.

The body's client relations committee will be able to make decisions without the traditional delay caused by having to have everything ratified by its council.

The society's president, Joe Platt, said: "Our new complaints handling system provides a win-win outcome.

"Delegated powers means not only is the council freed up to devote time to debate policy and strategy issues for the future of the profession.

I have no doubt we will see a marked improvement in the speed with which complaints matters are finalised Joe Platt Law Society Scotland

"The client relations committees will have the autonomy to do their job with the new professional conduct committee having a key role in considering allegations of professional misconduct.

"I have no doubt we will see a marked improvement in the speed with which complaints matters are finalised."

He added: "Complaints issues are rarely straightforward but we have a dedicated team of experienced personnel handling the cases and the additional powers granted to them through the new legislation will significantly improve their ability to deal with complaints benefiting both the complainer and the solicitor."

Last July the organisation was attacked by a legal watchdog for appearing "out of touch" and for mounting long and complicated investigations.