Defendants must be allowed legal advice before early guilty pleas, MPs say
Justice select committee highlights concerns about unrepresented defendants.
Daniel ShenSmith
Lords question creating new criminal offences ‘by regulation’
Constitution committee says Children and Social Work Bill continues a worrying trend.
Conveyancers urge ministers not to repeat HIPs fiasco
The Department for Business, Innovation & Skills will publish a ‘call for evidence’ later this year, it was confirmed last week at a Westminster Hall debate.
BSB breaks ranks in calling for ban on McKenzie fees
Bar regulator stands apart from the LSB and SRA in calling for a ban on McKenzie friends charging for legal activities.
Legal aid applications shut down for online tweaks
Legal Aid Agency to make several changes to electronic application form ahead of mandatory use from 4 July.
Briggs: online courts will not offer second-class legal service
‘I am not looking at this as creating a lawyer-free zone,’ says judge charged with civil justice review.
Suspended sentence for juror who researched defendant
Solicitor general warns jurors about their responsibilities after two are found guilty of contempt of court.
Snap consultation on criminal legal aid contracts
Legal Aid Agency offers to extend current contingency contracts while it consults with representative bodies.
Brexit risks ‘disruption and confusion’ in family law – Bar Council
A report from the Bar Council says that EU measures have had a ‘beneficial’ impact on family law.
Manchester lawyers agree location for advice hub
Steering group hoping to attract solicitors willing to do pro bono work.