Dear colleague,

Your weekly Law Society update
As the professional body for solicitors, every week the Law Society is working hard to influence the legal and regulatory environment on behalf of our profession and to promote solicitors at home and abroad. We support practice excellence, are an informed source of legal sector news and support members at every stage of their career.
 
Here are some highlights from our work this week.

Influencing on behalf of the profession and promoting the profession
 
The Law Society’s media profile this week 

In a letter to the Times, vice president David Greene responds to a column by Melanie Phillips about access to justice. He writes: "Access to representation is an essential element of a civilised society. That so many of our citizens are deprived of it should be an anathema to anyone who believes in the principles of fair and accessible justice."

The Gazette reported that Birmingham probate registry will close on 30 August despite ongoing delays to probate grant applications. David Greene said: “With solicitors and lay applicants across the country reporting waits of more than six to eight weeks for grants of probate – partly due to a spike in applications before fees increase – it is especially disappointing to hear of this closure.”

Meanwhile, the Daily Mail covered continuing delays to probate applications. “People want closure after they lose a loved one to start the process of moving on. With these delays, they are stuck in limbo for a very long period of time,” said Ian Bond, chair of our wills and equity committee. Ian also appeared in the Guardian to give advice on a complex inheritance case.

I. Stephanie Boyce appeared on BBC Radio Three Counties (starts from 1:13:00) discussing diversity in the profession and her journey to become deputy vice president.

The Gazette reported on the fatal attack in a Newcastle shopping centre on solicitor Peter Duncan. “The Law Society’s thoughts are with his family, friends and the local Newcastle community at this extremely tragic time,” said vice president David Greene.
 
The Guardian, Yahoo! News and the Gazette report 127 courtrooms out of 260 across the country are sitting idle. David Greene said: “We are aware that many cases are taking longer to reach court, in part because thousands of suspects are now released under investigation.”
 
Applications for the next cohort of Diversity Access Scheme (DAS) awards will open again in February 2020. The scheme awards scholarships to aspiring solicitors to help improve social mobility and diversity in the legal profession. Coverage in the Gazette plus in Solicitors Journal.
David Greene said: "I encourage any aspiring solicitor who is facing particular challenges on their way to qualification to consider applying for a place on the Diversity Access Scheme.” Read our press release here.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published new proposals for consultation on improving advocacy standards – the Gazette has the story. 

"We welcome the opportunity to work with SRA to develop training resources for solicitor advocates to deliver their role as effectively as possible." said David Greene.

Kara Frith, a partner and head of criminal law at Ison Harrison solicitors, appeared on BBC Radio Leeds discuss crime at festivals.

Access to Justice 

The SRA consultation on advocacy standards
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published new proposals for consultation on improving advocacy standards. The deadline for submission of responses is 13 November 2019. We are putting together a working group to draft a response.
 
The Means Test Review
On 21 August we facilitated a meeting of the Crime Practitioners Group to discuss the Means Test review, which was also attended by MoJ.
 
Family Law
 
This week members of the Family Law Committee met with Resolution, to discuss the progress of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill and our joint support for no fault divorce. We will continue to work on our briefing for MPs, ahead of the next stage of the Bill (not yet announced).
 
The committee also responded to a consultation request from the Costs Working Group, asking for views on the future of the current cost regimes in financial remedy cases. The Family Law Committee consider this to be an issue of great importance to family law solicitors, and provided further proposals for consideration in addition.
 
Immigration
 
This week the Immigration Law Committee launched a podcast, speaking with the UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group about the asylum processes for LGBTQI+ people. 
 
Legal Ombudsman
 
The Legal Ombudsman (LeO) is running two pilots in the hope of resolving complaints faster and thereby increasing customer satisfaction.
 
The ‘Shuttle negotiation’ Pilot commenced on 12 August 2019.  It aims to provide law firms with the opportunity to make an improved offer to resolve a complaint prior to the LeO accepting it as a case for investigation. 

The ‘Meditated Solutions’ Pilot is likely to commence around 2 September 2019. The aim of this pilot is to resolve complaints faster using mediation. Both parties must agree to participate and cases will be dealt with predominantly by an expert independent mediator by phone. No more than 300 cases will be referred during the 3 month pilot and a report on performance will be presented to the OLC Board in October 2019.
 
Supporting members at every stage of their career 

Our new early career learning and development package is now live, including:
 
Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Leeds - Tuesday 17 September 2019
Location: Leeds Law Society, 62 Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 2EE
This face-to-face one day workshop puts the focus firmly on your personal coping mechanisms. We demonstrate how to self-assess, manage emotional responses and deal with everyday stressors, so you can better deal with the pressures of your job. We will tackle anxiety and its causes, encourage positive thinking and you will leave with valuable skills for life.
 
Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Bristol - Wednesday 18 September 2019  
Location: Bristol Law Society, 12 Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 4ST
[See above]

Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Friday 20 September 2019 
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This interactive course will equip delegates with the skills to enhance your application and interview performance. This workshop has been developed specifically for solicitors but the content is relevant for anyone serious about submitting a credible judicial application.

Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Saturday 21 September 2019  
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
[See above]

Legal Pride
The Law Society is marching in more Prides than ever before – as #LegalPride – together with the Bar Council and CILEx to show a united legal profession in support of its LGBT+ members and LGBT+ rights. Sign up for Manchester and Cardiff here.

Solicitor Judges' Division Seminar: Breaking Down Barriers, London - Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This autumn, the Solicitor Judges' Division is hosting a panel discussion on judicial diversity and how we can progress it.

In-house Division seminar: How to implement a D&I strategy in your legal team, Manchester -Wednesday 25 September 2019
Location: Weightmans, Hardman Square, 1 Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3EB
Recent press coverage around how the in-house community can drive change has put a spotlight on this topic and we are keen to explore how the Law Society can help.
 
To Network or Not Work? How employee diversity network groups can add value to your business, London - 26 September 2019
Junior Lawyers International Weekend, London 27-29 September 2019
Make sure you save the date and book your place for this year’s International Weekend, which will take place between 27 September and 29 September 2019 in London. International Weekend provides delegates with a mix of technical and legal presentations, skills-based seminars, an overview of the legal system in England and Wales, and an introduction to the City of London.
International Weekend gala dinner London Saturday 28 September 2019
This black-tie event forms part of the larger International Weekend 2019. The gala dinner, which will be held on Saturday 28 September at the Law Society in London, is aimed at junior lawyers in England and Wales and young lawyers from overseas jurisdictions but is open to all. For further information click here.

Supporting practice excellence
  
Competition Section seminar: CPD compliance for Irish practising certificate holders  London - Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This two-hour seminar will cover essential CPD requirements for Irish practising certificate holders, with a particular focus on the regulatory element of Irish professional development.
 
Risk and Compliance autumn conference 2019: Mitigating risk in a changing regulatory landscape - Bristol Thursday 12 September 2019
Location: Mercure Bristol Holland House Hotel and Spa, Redcliff Hill, Bristol, BS1 6SQ
In this popular one-day event speakers will provide invaluable advice for shaping the future of compliance in your firm and offer practical guidance to help you cultivate a best practice culture throughout your firm or department. The autumn conference will be held in Bristol.
 
Our TechTalk series is going national! The next ‘introduction to LawTech’ event will take place on 18 September 2019 in Cardiff. This event aims to inform practitioners on the fundamentals of legal technology, the type of products available and opportunities for their business: Please book here: https://events.lawsociety.org.uk/ClientApps/Silverbear.Web.EDMS/public/default.aspx?tabId=37&id=2486&orgId=1&guid=1389fe18-d987-413b-9114-693a4a0420a9

Small Firms Annual Conference 2019: Thursday 19 September, London and Thursday 3 October, Leeds
Joshua Rozenberg QC (hon) will be this year’s keynote speaker. He will discuss changes in the legal sector and the future for small firms. The programme will also cover topics such as small firm business models, cost effective ways to market your firm and the latest updates from the SRA handbooks. Secure your place on or before Tuesday 3 September to save up to £50.
 
Property Section workshop: risk and negligence in property transactions - problems and pitfalls for practitioners, Leeds - Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Shulmans LLP, 10 Wellington Pl, Leeds, LS1 4AP
As the residential property market slows and returns on commercial property are threatened by the decline of the High Street, the risk that property owners will look to the professionals who advised them to recoup their losses returns.
 
Private Client Section seminar: Professor King and topical issues in Private Client Practice, Birmingham – Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Birmingham - Venue TBC
This one-hour seminar from Professor King will both educate and entertain you with practical guidance on topical issues in Private Client Practice. Lesley will bring you her unique insight and clarity on recent case law and statutory developments and will focus on avoiding traps and pitfalls.

New frontiers in data protection, ePrivacy and workplace surveillance, London -Thursday 26 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This conference will explore some major data protection challenges faced by solicitors, identify the danger spots in introducing new technologies and offer practical advice on mitigating risk.
 
Small Firms Division annual conference 2019  Leeds, - Thursday 3 October 2019
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds City Centre, Granary Wharf, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4BR
The Small Firms Division is dedicated to meeting the needs of all smaller legal businesses, including sole practitioners. The Division's flagship annual conferences will take place in London and Leeds, and will provide practitioners with a half-day of small firms-focused conference sessions, practical tips and networking opportunities.
 
Webinars  
5 September - Vertical Agreements: The Digital Dimension and Risks - Standard fee of £54 with a 20% discount for Competition Section members

6 September – Cryptocurrency in Insolvency – Standard fee of £54 with a 20% discount for Civil litigation Section members

10 September - Risk update 2019 – recent changes and hot topics in risk and compliance - Standard fee of £54 with a 20% discount for Risk and Compliance Service members
 
11 September - Make crime (and civil law) pay (Tikit sponsored) – sponsored  

19 September - Understanding SuDS: The importance of sustainable urban drainage systems and adaptation of water pipes – Standard fee of £54 with a 20% discount for Property Section members

Keeping members up to date
 
We have a number of newsletters for members. Below is a list, along with links for signing up to them.
 
Newsletter
Sign-up method

Advocacy Update
Update My Law Society preferences

Anti-money Laundering Update
Law Society newsletter page

City Update
Contact the City relationship management team

Diversity & Inclusion Update
Update My Law Society preferences

In-house Forum
Update My Law Society preferences

International Update
Law Society newsletter page

Junior Lawyers Update
Law Society newsletter page

JLD sign-up page

Legal Aid Update
Law Society newsletter page

Professional Update
Law Society newsletter page

Risk & Compliance Update
Join the Risk and Compliance Service

Small Firms Focus
Contact the Small Firms Division

Solicitor Judges Update
Join the Solicitor Judges Division
 
Campaigns newsletter
Sign up to the Campaigns newsletter

Parliamentary report
Parliamentary report

You can also register for the Gazette daily update here.
 
As always, please feel free to share this update with your constituents unless otherwise specified.
 
Kind regards,
 
Simon
 
Simon Davis
President
The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London. WC2A 1P

For a short while, the Law Society has been running Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) forums across the country.

As well as the chance to delve into D&I concerns of those in the room, the participants at our D&I forums hear directly from the Law Society about what we are doing in the D&I sphere and are an opportunity for people to discuss issues of mutual concern relatively informally. The forums are designed to provide shared learning and peer support as well as the opportunity to work more closely with both the Society’s D&I team, and each other.

A wide range of individuals attend our forums, which include (but are not limited to): D&I professionals; HR professionals; partners and other fee earners; in-house and other legal practitioners; Local Law Society representatives; or anyone else involved or interested in D&I within law firms and in-house legal departments.

The overwhelming success of our D&I forums has meant we have expended them throughout England, and in Wales. Currently, we have had regional D&I forums in London, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds, Newcastle, Cardiff, Birmingham, Bristol and Southampton; and have more planned!

Last month, we held our first Eastern forum in Cambridge, kindly hosted by Birketts. We had a full room of attendees, who represented large and medium firms in the top 200, and Cambridge Law Society. Discussions focused on the hot D&I topics of attendees: unconscious bias; recruitment and how to set up disability networks. We hope that this forum will mirror those across the country and meet quarterly to continue to discuss issues and share best practice. Our D&I forums also offer the chance for attendees to influence the work of the Law Society and advise the Society on how to improve D&I within their organisations and region, and to help to organise more in-depth training and meetings on various topics, e.g., mental health and gender pay gap reporting.

If you would like more information, and to see our schedule for 2019, please visit our webpage, and to join our Eastern forum, or to host a forum in 2020 please contact chris.seel@lawsociety.org.uk or beth.quinn@lawsociety.org.uk 

Dear colleague,

Your weekly Law Society update
As the professional body for solicitors, every week the Law Society is working hard to influence the legal and regulatory environment on behalf of our profession and to promote solicitors at home and abroad. We support practice excellence, are an informed source of legal sector news and support members at every stage of their career.
 
Influencing on behalf of the profession and promoting the profession

> Download our 'lines to take' background briefing

The Law Society’s media profile this week

The BBC  and Dundee Messenger reported our call for legal aid to be made more widely available for inquests. 

Our interim director of policy Richard Miller was quoted saying: "We believe legal aid should be much more widely available for inquests, particularly where the state has legal representation."

Coverage of our research into the impact of a no deal Brexit on UK legal services continued this week. Solicitors Journal , Global Legal Post and the Journal of the Law Society of Scotland carried our analysis, which shows that the sector may be set for a £3.5bn slump if we crash out of the EU without a deal.
 
I was quoted saying “the UK legal system is globally respected and the liberalisation of services in the EU has directly contributed to its success"... "in 2018 the total tax contribution of legal and accounting activities was estimated to be £19.1 billion – potentially funding the salaries of doctors, nurses, teachers and police officers.” Read the report here.

Ian Kelcey, co-chair of the criminal law committee, spoke to BBC Radio Kent (02:48:38) and BBC Radio 5 Live (0:47:36) about pre-charge anonymity for those accused of criminal offences and I put out a statement saying “a fair and consistent process should be applied. All must be treated equally before the law – irrespective of status, wealth or reputation.”

Legal Week (£) covered the sector response to changes to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) standard of proof that will apply from November.

I was quoted saying "there remains a concern that lowering the standard of proof [to the civil standard] may increase the likelihood of referrals to the SDT of ‘weaker’ cases which would previously and more appropriately have been dispensed by the regulator using its own powers. We trust the tribunal will monitor referrals to ensure best use of its resources and powers.”

Volunteers wanted for local media panels
 
Our local media panels help consumers understand the important work solicitors do to assist people in their everyday lives.
 
After the success of Legal Expert columns in South Wales, Bradford and Darlington/County Durham, we’re rolling out features in the York Press and Western Daily Press.
 
If you’re a practising solicitor in York, Bristol, Bath, Somerset, Gloucestershire or Wiltshire, and would like to get involved, please visit our website for further information. The deadline is Friday 23 August.

Access to Justice

Probate Delays
Ahead of a meeting with HMCTS on 10 September we are asking any practitioners experiencing delays to grants of probate of more than six weeks to get in touch. Please email examples to Emily.Weidner@lawsociety.org.uk
 
Meeting at the Embassy of Hungary
We met with the Hungarian Investment and Trade Commissioner and Science and Technology Counselor to discuss the Law Society’s work on court modernisation. The Hungarian National Office for the Judiciary is working on the Digital Court 2019 Project which aims to digitise the court service in Hungary. Areas of discussion included infrastructure developments, efficiency and quality of justice systems.

Meeting with the Association of District Judges (ADJ)
We met the Association of District Judges and Resolution to update them on our work on Civil Justice, including whiplash reforms, the rise in small claims limit for personal injury and fixed recoverable costs, HMCTS court reform programme and family law.
 
MoJ Criminal Legal Aid Fee Review: ‘Accelerated work’ programme
We met the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to discuss the ‘accelerated work’ programme initiated by the MoJ in response to lobbying by the Law Society and other practitioner groups. We hope that this will result in additional payments for our members, for work such as consideration of unused material and early disclosure.

The MoJ’s ‘Criminal Legal Aid Review’ (CLAR) is not expected to report until the end of 2020 at the earliest and we have been urging the MoJ to invest in specific areas earlier than this in recognition of the crisis in the criminal justice system and to help build confidence in the review process.

Regulation

Anti Money Laundering 
The Law Society and members of the Money Laundering Task Force attended a quarterly meeting with the National Crime Agency’s (NCA) engagement team on 30 July. We are working with the NCA to develop guidance for members on submitting high quality suspicious activity reports (SARs). We aim to produce examples of high quality SARs that members can refer to when drafting their own reports. The NCA also provided an update on its activities and feedback on issues it has observed in the SARs submitted by solicitors.
 
SQE
The Solicitors Qualification Exam (SQE) is due to go live in September 2021. The SRA has released the results, analysis and a report of an independent reviewer on the pilot of SQE1. The reports have made some significant recommendations for taking the SQE1 forward, such as scrapping the legal skills test as a part of SQE1. This would leave SQE1 assessment as a series of multiple choice questions. The Law Society is scrutinising the pilot results and will continue to work to ensure a robust and respected standard for entering the profession without arbitrary barriers.
 
Private Law

Leasehold
We met with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to discuss the investigation into mis-selling of leaseholds, following our written submission.
 
Tax
We met with the advisers of the Economic Affairs Finance Bill sub-committee of the House of Lords to discuss developments in HMRC's powers in recent years.
 
Public Law

Immigration: visas
This week the Immigration Law Committee met with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to discuss the planned changes to family and settlement visas. This was a joint meeting with the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association and focused on the changes that UKVI would like to make to the evidential requirements for such visas.
 
Mental Health
The Mental Health and Disability Law Committee has written to Susan Acland-Hood, CEO of HMCTS, about the functioning of the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Tribunal. Practitioners are reporting a growing number of adjournments and significant delays in listing hearings and issuing decisions. We are concerned children and young adults are not receiving the service they require or deserve from this tribunal.
 
Parliamentary

Both houses are in recess and we are preparing to engage with the new administration.

Campaigns: Write to the Lord Chancellor 
Take two minutes to ask the new Lord Chancellor to urgently improve access to justice. Our online portal includes a pre-written letter for you to send calling on the Government to tackle legal aid deserts and improve the criminal justice system.
 
Supporting members at every stage of their career 

Our new early career learning and development package is now live, including:
 
Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Leeds -Thursday 17 September 2019
Location: Leeds Law Society, 62 Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 2EE
This face-to-face one day workshop puts the focus firmly on your personal coping mechanisms. We demonstrate how to self-assess, manage emotional responses and deal with everyday stressors so you can better deal with the pressures of your job. We will address anxiety and its causes, encourage positive thinking and you will leave with valuable skills for life.

Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Bristol - Wednesday 18 September 2019 Bristol
Location: Bristol Law Society, 12 Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 4ST
This face-to-face one day workshop puts the focus firmly on your personal coping mechanisms. We demonstrate how to self-assess, manage emotional responses and deal with everyday stressors so you can better deal with the pressures of your job. We will address anxiety and its causes, encourage positive thinking and you will leave with valuable skills for life.

Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Friday 20 September 2019 
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This interactive course will equip delegates with the skills to enhance your application and interview performance. This workshop has been developed specifically for solicitors but the content is relevant for anyone serious about submitting a credible judicial application.

Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Saturday 21 September 2019  
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This interactive course will equip delegates with the skills to enhance your application and interview performance. This workshop has been developed specifically for solicitors but the content is relevant for anyone serious about submitting a credible judicial application.
 
JLD Forum: Career development skills for junior lawyers, London - Saturday 21 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
The Junior Lawyers Division is holding a free one-day career development and skills event for trainees, newly qualified solicitors (NQs) and solicitors up to five years' PQE. The aim is to equip those who are at the start of their careers with skills and know-how to progress, diversify and develop within the legal profession.

Preparing mature students/career changers for the solicitors’ profession, London – Tuesday 24 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
The Law Society is committed to attracting the most able candidates into the legal profession and promoting equality at all stages. As part of its drive to promote diversity at entrance level, the Law Society has developed an exciting careers event to offer advice and support to mature students and career changers aspiring to become solicitors.
 
The Law Society's Diploma in Local Government Law and Practice 2019-2020
This self-study course has been tailored for trainee solicitors, solicitors, barristers and chartered legal executives who are committed to progressing in local government law and practice. The programme will cover the structure of local government law, local authorities, the courts and much more. Enrolment closes next Friday 16 August - download the prospectus and secure your place today.
 
Legal Pride
The Law Society is marching in more Prides than ever before – as #LegalPride – together with the Bar Council and CILEx to show a united legal profession in support of its LGBT+ members and LGBT+ rights. Sign up for Manchester and Cardiff here.

Supporting practice excellence   

Solicitor Judges' Division Seminar: Breaking Down Barriers, London - Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This autumn, the Solicitor Judges' Division is hosting a panel discussion on judicial diversity and how we can progress it.

Competition Section seminar: CPD compliance for Irish practising certificate holders, London -Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This two-hour seminar will cover essential CPD requirements for Irish practising certificate holders, with a particular focus on regulatory requirements.
 
Small Firms Annual Conference 2019: Thursday 19 September, London and Thursday 3 October, Leeds
Joshua Rozenberg QC (hon) will be this year’s keynote speaker. He will discuss changes in the legal sector and the future for small firms. The programme will also cover topics such as small firm business models, cost effective ways to market your firm and the latest updates from the SRA handbooks. Secure your place on or before Tuesday 3 September to save up to £50.
 
Property Section workshop: risk and negligence in property transactions, Leeds -Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Shulmans LLP, 10 Wellington Pl, Leeds, LS1 4AP
As the residential property market slows and returns on commercial property are threatened by the decline of the high street, there is a risk property owners will look to the professionals who advised them to recoup their losses.
 
Private Client Section seminar: Professor King and topical issues in private client practice, Birmingham -Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Birmingham - Venue TBC
This one-hour seminar from Professor King will educate and entertain with practical guidance on topical issues in private client practice. Professor King will bring her unique insight and clarity on recent case law and statutory developments and will focus on avoiding traps and pitfalls.
 
International Weekend, London - 28 September 2019
The International Weekend 2019 is an opportunity for junior lawyers to network with international counterparts.The gala dinner is the highlight of the programme and is open to all. For further information click here.  
 
Keeping members up to date
 
We have a number of newsletters for members. Below is a list, along with links for signing up to them.
 
Newsletter
Sign-up method

Advocacy Update
Update My Law Society preferences

Anti-money Laundering Update
Law Society newsletter page

City Update
Contact the City relationship management team

Diversity & Inclusion Update
Update My Law Society preferences

In-house Forum
Update My Law Society preferences

International Update
Law Society newsletter page

Junior Lawyers Update

JLD sign-up page

Legal Aid Update
Law Society newsletter page

Professional Update
Law Society newsletter page

Risk & Compliance Update
Join the Risk and Compliance Service

Small Firms Focus
Contact the Small Firms Division

Solicitor Judges Update
Join the Solicitor Judges Division

You can also register for the Gazette daily update here.

As always, please feel free to share this update with your constituents unless otherwise specified.
 
Kind regards,
 
Simon
 
Simon Davis
President
The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London. WC2A 1P

Dear colleague
Your weekly Law Society update
As the professional body for solicitors, every week the Law Society is working hard to influence the legal and regulatory environment on behalf of our profession and to promote solicitors at home and abroad. We support practice excellence, are an informed source of legal sector news and support members at every stage of their career.

Here are some highlights from this week.

> Download our 'lines to take' background briefing

 


 
Influencing on behalf of the profession and promoting the profession
The Law Society’s media profile this week

The Financial Times, Politico, City AM, Legal Futures and the Times all have covered our new report on the impact of a no deal Brexit on the legal services sector. New Law Journal also discuss our opposition to a no deal Brexit.

The Times (£), Gazette and New Law Journal cover Robert Buckland’s appointment as Lord Chancellor. I note that “as a former criminal barrister, [the lord chancellor] will well understand the challenges facing our justice system.” The Gazette also reports from the swearing in ceremony. In my speech, I urged the Lord Chancellor to recognise “that investment in our justice system is not only crucial for the rule of law but good politics and good economics.”

Law Society vice president David Greene was interviewed by Sky News breakfast programme, Sunrise, on Tuesday, to discuss the legal aid crisis as we mark 70 years since the introduction of legal aid in England and Wales. You can watch the interview here.

The Daily Mail, ITV.com, AOL.com, This is Money, the Sun, more than 100 local newspapers and a number of local radio stations cite Law Society concerns over the legal aid crisis, voiced by our interim operational director of policy, Richard Miller. Richard was also interviewed by Channel 5 News on the importance of legal aid and the impact of cuts.
 
Ian Kelcey, co-chair of the criminal law committee, appeared on BBC Wiltshire (01:07:53) to discuss anonymity for those under police investigation who have not been charged. This is after the Lord Chancellor told the Times (£) suspected sex offenders and others accused of serious crimes should remain anonymous until charged - if they have a reputation to protect. While supportive of pre-charge anonymity, I believe that a fair and consistent process should be applied. All must be treated equally before the law – irrespective of status, wealth or reputation. 
 
The Times (£), BBC, Metro, Mail Online, and the Sun report a judge's claims the justice system is 'beyond the point of collapse' after a case was delayed two years before getting to court. I am quoted in coverage saying that “decades of cuts to this fundamental part of our country's infrastructure mean the whole system is crumbling.”

Solicitor’s Journal covers our call to the new prime minister to focus on restoring the beleaguered justice system and delivering an orderly Brexit which maintains cross-border justice. Read our press release.
 
The Gazette reports on the 2019 Excellence Awards shortlist. I said that “there are more than 140,000 solicitors in England and Wales – to be shortlisted for an Excellence Award is to be recognised as among the very best of the profession.” 

The Gazette, Times and Legal Futures carry my comments on the Legal Services Board rule change approval for the SDT to move from the criminal standard of proof to the civil standard in its proceedings.
 
The Gazette carries my comments on SRA plans to make the first stage of the SQE entirely multiple choice.
 
The Guardian reports on Cambridge University’s ruling that sexual misconduct cases should not be covered by general disciplinary regulations. Cris McCurley, a member of our access to justice committee, said: “If universities are not prepared to adhere to their obligations and their duty of care then I can imagine there will be some significant legal challenges on this.”
 
Thomson Reuters and LexLaw discuss how influencers like former Law Society president Christina Blacklaws are helping to boost diversity in the legal sector and cover the results of our research into women in the law.
 
The Gazette examines why claimants are struggling to enforce judgments in civil cases. Christina Blacklaws is quoted saying: “It is well recognised that enforcement of judgments is a complex issue, with arcane procedures, which can easily defeat an unrepresented litigant.”
 
Council member Jonathan Goldsmith writes in the Gazette about the benefits of the current legal services sector regulatory regime.
 
Law Careers explores what life as an in-house lawyer looks like today. Our data shows that in 2017 there were 26,900 in-house lawyers.
 
Local solicitor Razia Jogi spoke to BBC Radio Newcastle (35:41) about the legal frameworks in place to prevent female genital mutilation (FGM).

Don’t forget you can read all Law Society press releases by clicking on this link. For live updates follow us on Twitter.

Volunteers wanted for local media panels
 
Our local media panels help consumers understand the important work solicitors do to assist people in their everyday lives.
 
After the success of Legal Expert columns in South Wales, Bradford and Darlington/County Durham, we’re rolling out features in the York Press and Western Daily Press.
 
If you’re a practising solicitor in York, Bristol, Bath, Somerset, Gloucestershire or Wiltshire, and would like to get involved, please visit our website for further information. The deadline is Friday 23 August.
 
Regulation

New Internal Governance Rules
The Legal Services Board has released the final version of its new Internal Governance Rules (IGR). The rules come into effect immediately, but approved regulators (such as the Law Society) and regulatory bodies (such as the SRA) have a transition period of 12 months to make any changes required to comply.

The LSB’s intention is to enhance the separation and independence of regulatory functions within the current legislative framework; to provide more clarity to decrease the number of independence-related disputes between approved regulators and regulatory bodies; and to make the IGR more readily enforceable. 
 
Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT)
The Legal Services Board has approved the SDT’s application for changes to its rules. The main change is that the standard of proof will change to the civil standard (on the balance of probabilities) instead of the criminal standard (beyond reasonable doubt) from 25 November 2019.

The Law Society opposed this change and there remains a concern that lowering the standard of proof may increase the likelihood of referrals to the SDT of ‘weaker’ cases which would previously and more appropriately have been dispensed by the regulator using its own powers. We have urged the tribunal to monitor referrals to ensure best use of its resources and powers.

Private Law

Employment law
The Government has published the next phase of its Good Work agenda. This included some significant changes to employment law that the Society has been lobbying for, including the setting up a single Labour Market Enforcement Body and improving protection for those who experience harassment at work.
 
Tax law
Some recommendations made by the Tax Law Committee were included in the Finance Bill, published on 11 July 2019, including measures to limit double taxation. The Tax Committee also raised issues in the consultation on extension of the off payroll working rules where companies who have exercised reasonable care could be double charged under the proposed secondary liability provisions. These have now been addressed by Government which has made changes and now says that the proposals are not intended to transfer liability where deliberate tax avoidance has occurred.
 
Public Law

Immigration
Members of the Immigration Law Committee met with the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration to discuss their current areas of focus, which include the asylum system, the 'hostile environment' laws, and problems with the newly contracted visa applications system, which the Law Society has also raised with the Home Office.
 
Parliamentary

The Law Society’s interim director of policy Richard Miller was quoted in the Women and Equalities Select Committee report on enforcing the Equality Act: the law and the role of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The Committee took on one our recommendations on the enforcement role of the EHRC and made wider recommendations on legal aid for discrimination cases.
 
Swearing in of the new Lord Chancellor
On Tuesday, I spoke at the swearing in ceremony of new Lord Chancellor, Robert Buckland QC MP. This followed my telephone call with him to congratulate him on his new role and discuss the Law Society’s priorities. The new Solicitor General, Michael Ellis QC MP, was also sworn in during the event. My speech can be found here and was covered in the Gazette.
 
Key stakeholder meetings
The CEO met with Deputy Director General of the Confederation of British Industries (CBI) on Thursday to discuss cooperation on Brexit, education and skills.
 
Legal services sector asks for UK-EU future relationship paper
Yesterday we published a paper on the legal services sector’s asks regarding the UK-EU future relationship, which received widespread media coverage (see above). It has been sent to key government and opposition figures and will be distributed to more MPs when the House of Commons sits again in September.
 
The paper summarises the current state of the UK-EU relationship as it affects the legal sector, and explores how different future relationships will affect English and Welsh lawyers and firms. All outcomes are explored in relation to market access to ensure the continued success of the UK legal sector. We conclude in the paper that only an association agreement can adequately deliver on legal services, and that the openness of England and Wales for EU and EEA lawyers should be maintained.

Our influencing work internationally

We took our first trade mission to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this week. Nine delegates from our member firms travelled to Malaysia as part of the two day programme jointly arranged with the Malaysian Bar Council to learn more about legal business opportunities.

On Monday 1 July, our delegates met with the President and senior officeholders of the Malaysian Bar and received an update on the legal services sector and economy. They then met with boutique law firm Izral Partnership, before participating joining a tour of the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC). Four of our delegates spoke on two panel discussions on “Safeguarding intellectual property: case studies from Asia and the UK/Europe” and “Foreign direct investment: issues and opportunities in Malaysia and the UK” alongside representatives from Foong Cheng Leong and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority at our in our joint seminar with the Malaysian Bar Council later that evening. Over 30 Malaysian lawyers attended the event.

On Tuesday 2 July, our delegation met with one of the largest full-service law firm in Malaysia, Shearn Delamore & Co, where we received an update on developments in the courts and legal services in Kuala Lumpur. We then met with the founder and employees of GM Tan & Co before receiving a briefing from the British High Commission in Malaysia and the partner of one of the two law firms in Malaysia that hold a Qualified Law Firm Licence.

Supporting members at every stage of their career 
 
Our new early career learning and development package is now live, including:
 
Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Leeds -Thursday 17 September 2019
Location: Leeds Law Society, 62 Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 2EE
Resilience and Wellbeing face-to-face workshop, Bristol - Wednesday 18 September 2019 Bristol
Location: Bristol Law Society, 12 Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 4ST

This face-to-face one day workshop puts the focus firmly on your personal coping mechanisms. We demonstrate how to self-assess, manage emotional responses and deal with everyday stressors, so you can better deal with the pressures of your job. We will tackle anxiety and its causes, encourage positive thinking and you will leave with valuable skills for life.

Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Friday 20 September 2019 
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
Judicial appointments: interview training for solicitors, London - Saturday 21 September 2019  
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL

In view of increasing competition for judicial appointments, this interactive course will equip delegates with the skills to enhance your application and interview performance. This workshop has been developed specifically for solicitor applicants but the content is relevant for anyone serious about submitting a credible judicial application.
 
The Law Society's Diploma in Local Government Law and Practice 2019-2020
This self-study course has been tailored for trainee solicitors, solicitors, barristers and chartered legal executives who are committed to progressing in local government law and practice. The programme will cover the structure of local government law, local authorities and the courts and much more. Enrolment closes Friday 16 August - download the prospectus and secure your place today.
Legal Pride
The Law Society is marching in more Prides than ever before – as #LegalPride, together with the Bar Council and CILEx to show a united legal profession in support of its LGBT+ members and LGBT+ rights. The vice president and deputy vice president marched in Birmingham, and will be doing the same in Leeds and Manchester (respectively). Sign up for Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester and Cardiff here.


Fiona Woolf lecture, London  - Thursday 12 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This event is to celebrate the achievements of Dame Fiona Woolf and other inspirational women who have reached senior positions within the profession.

Supporting practice excellence   
 
Compliance forum for COLPs/COFAs: SRA Standards and Regulations, London -Tuesday 6 August 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) will be issuing new Standards and Regulations later this year which will replace the SRA Handbook. This forum, aimed at COLPs and COFAs, will provide insight into the changes that you need to make.
 
Solicitor Judges' Division Seminar: Breaking Down Barriers, London - Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This autumn, the Solicitor Judges' Division is hosting a panel discussion on judicial diversity and how we can achieve it.
 
Competition Section seminar: CPD compliance for Irish practising certificate holders, London -Tuesday 10 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
This two-hour seminar will cover essential CPD requirements for Irish practising certificate holders, with a particular focus on the regulatory element of Irish professional development.
 
Risk and Compliance autumn conference 2019: Mitigating risk in a changing regulatory landscape, Bristol -Thursday 12 September 2019
Location: Mercure Bristol Holland House Hotel and Spa, Redcliff Hill, Bristol, BS1 6SQ
In this popular one-day event speakers will provide invaluable advice for shaping the future of compliance in your firm and offer practical guidance to help you cultivate a best practice culture throughout your firm or department. 
 
Compliance forum for COLPs/COFAs: SRA Standards and Regulations, London - Monday 16 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) will be issuing new Standards and Regulations later this year which will replace the SRA Handbook. It will have a new reduced set of principles, two separate Codes of Conduct - an individual solicitor code and a firm code - and simplified Account Rules. This forum, aimed at COLPs and COFAs, will provide insight into the changes that you need to make.
 
Small Firms Division annual conference 2019, London - Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL
The Small Firms Division is dedicated to meeting the needs of all smaller legal businesses, including sole practitioners. The Division's flagship annual conferences will take place in London and Leeds, and will provide practitioners with a half-day of small firms-focused conference sessions, practical tips and networking opportunities.
 
Property Section workshop: risk and negligence in property transactions - problems and pitfalls for practitioners, Leeds -Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Shulmans LLP, 10 Wellington Pl, Leeds, LS1 4AP
As the residential property market slows and returns on commercial property are threatened by the decline of the high street, there is a risk that property owners will look to the professionals who advised them to recoup their losses.

Private Client Section seminar: Professor King and topical Issues in Private Client Practice, Birmingham -Thursday 19 September 2019
Location: Birmingham - Venue TBC
This one-hour seminar from Professor King will educate and entertain with practical guidance on topical issues in Private Client Practice. Professor King will bring her unique insight and clarity on recent case law and statutory developments and will focus on avoiding traps and pitfalls.
 
Small Firms Annual conference 2019: Thursday 19 September, London and Thursday 3 October, Leeds
Joshua Rozenberg QC (hon) will be this year’s keynote speaker. He will discuss changes in the legal sector and the future for small firms.  The programme will also cover topics such as small firm business models, cost effective ways to market your firm and the latest updates from the SRA handbooks. Secure your place on or before Tuesday 3 September to save up to £50.

 


 
Keeping members up to date
 
We have a number of newsletters for members. Below is a list, along with links for signing up to them.
 
Newsletter
Sign-up method

Advocacy Update
Update My Law Society preferences

Anti-money Laundering Update
Law Society newsletter page

City Update
Contact the City relationship management team

Diversity & Inclusion Update
Update My Law Society preferences

In-house Forum
Update My Law Society preferences

International Update
Law Society newsletter page

Junior Lawyers Update
Law Society newsletter page

JLD sign-up page

Legal Aid Update
Law Society newsletter page

Professional Update
Law Society newsletter page

Regional Update
Contact your regional relationship management team

Risk & Compliance Update
Join the Risk and Compliance Service

Small Firms Focus
Contact the Small Firms Division

Solicitor Judges Update
Join the Solicitor Judges Division

You can also register for the Gazette daily update here.

 


 
As always, please feel free to share this update with your constituents unless otherwise specified.
 
Kind regards,
 
Simon
 
Simon Davis
President
The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London. WC2A 1P