Criminal law firm creates pre-charge accreditation scheme
A leading criminal defence practice has launched what it claims to be the first training and accreditation scheme devoted to pre-charge engagement to ensure it is the ‘go-to’ firm for such work.
Private client specialist banned for backdating LPA signatures
An experienced private client lawyer who backdated his client’s signature on lasting powers of attorney has been banned from working for law firms.
Solicitor’s libel defence struck out for “persistent failure to engage”
A High Court judge has struck out a solicitor’s defence to a libel claim following a “persistent failure to engage” with the litigation.
Law Society and Bar Council oppose economic crime reforms
The Law Society and Bar Council have expressed concern about new economic crime provisions put forward by the government that target the legal profession.
“Unmistakable lack of diversity” on government barrister panels
Almost 90% of the self-employed barristers on government legal panels are white, a report by the Bar Council has found, urging the government to take action.
SRA fines firm with “failing” anti-money laundering controls
A law firm with a “failing” anti-money laundering control environment, leading to multiple rule breaches, has been fined £2,000 by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
Progeny looks to increase legal services offering after Scottish MDP move
Multi-disciplinary Progeny Group will continue to boost its legal services through organic growth and acquisition, its chief executive said in the wake of a major move into Scotland.
Top human rights barrister highlights Chinese cyber-attacks on her and others
One of the country’s leading human rights barristers has complained about Twitter accounts and emails purporting to be from her and other defenders that spring up when they criticise China.
SDT grants law firm access to papers to help sue struck-off solicitor
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has granted a law firm access to papers from a recent case to help legal action being taken against the solicitor it struck off.
Licensed conveyancers to face explicit duty to treat customers fairly
An explicit requirement on licensed conveyancers to treat customers fairly has been proposed as part of a new statement of ethical principles by their regulator.
