MPs back tougher economic crime fines and oversight for lawyers
MPs have backed giving the Solicitors Regulation Authority unlimited fining powers in cases of economic crime, as well as a new regulatory objective for the Legal Services Act.
Bar Council piles pressure on BSB over Dinah Rose case
The Bar Council has taken the unusual step of criticising the Bar Standards Board for its “unacceptable and inexcusable” handling of a complaint against Dinah Rose KC.
Quarter of firms in SRA review of immigration work face disciplinary action
Ten of the 40 law firms that took part in a Solicitors Regulation Authority review of immigration services have been referred for possible disciplinary action after it found “significant shortcomings”.
Listed firms’ share prices jump while Ince looks to raise another £4m
Shares in listed law firms Knights and the Ince Group have risen in the wake of trading updates, with Ince also announcing plans to raise another £4m to invest in its core legal services business.
BSB apologises to top KC over handling of complaint against her
The Bar Standards Board has issued an apology to leading silk Dinah Rose for its handling of a complaint against her and suggesting she might have been reckless in her conduct.
Law firm wins VAT battle with HMRC over office leases
A law firm LLP that used a shell company to enter into leases for its offices has won an appeal against an HM Revenue & Customs decision that it could not recover the VAT incurred.
Courts returning “large number” of claims forms for ex-OIC cases
A large number of claim forms prepared by personal injury solicitors in claims exiting the Official Injury Claim portal are being returned because of errors, it has emerged.
Female GCs “more likely to coach and mentor” than men
Female general counsel are more likely to coach, mentor and develop their direct reports than male GCs, new research has found. Men placed a higher focus on collaborative working than women.
PI firm fails to exclude defendant solicitors’ data on its claims record
The High Court has rejected a claimant personal injury firm’s objection to witness statements from the opposing solicitors that suggest it may be engaging in fraud.
Solicitors facing ethical disclosure decisions “need more SRA help”
The SRA’s guidance on disclosing confidential information “inappropriately discourages” lawyers from reporting serious misconduct and risks of harm, it has been claimed.
