Today's rundown:
Lugano Convention
The importance of the rule of law
Legal aid funding needed now more than ever
LSB's arrangement processes headed in the right direction
Law Society Awards
Lugano Convention
The Daily Express examines in detail the importance of the Lugano Convention, which provides legal clarity and safeguarding across borders, making litigation more accessible between countries. The UK – a member before Brexit - has applied to rejoin the convention so far unsuccessfully.
It cites our statistics that legal services added nearly £60 billion to the UK economy in 2018, while in 2017 exports of legal services hit £5 billion.
The importance of the rule of law
Sir Geoffrey Bindman QC writes an in-depth article in the New Law Journal (£) where he examines the importance of the rule of law. He cites our assertion that "now more than ever, the UK legal profession must maintain a global focus," as UK lawyers are increasingly engaged in international commerce and the international protection of human rights.
Read about our international work
Petition over extended hours
The Ministry of Justice has denied claims that lawyers will be forced to attend Crown Court trials at the weekend, following a petition by lawyers opposed to extended hours being introduced in the criminal courts, reports the Gazette.
Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce said: "A move to extended hours is likely to impose additional costs on law firms, many of which are already suffering the financial burden of the pandemic, and the further negative impact on work/life balance could make it even more difficult for firms to recruit and retain staff.
"This could lead to capacity shrinking once more at a time when the entire criminal justice system and those that work within it are already stretched to breaking point."
Legal aid funding needed now more than ever
EIN examines a report published by the House of Commons Justice Committee, which look at the future of the legal aid system.
Stephanie Boyce said: "Legal aid deserts must be ended. Civil and criminal practitioners should be paid properly for their expert work which is crucial to providing access to justice and the rule of law."
LSB's arrangement processes headed in the right direction
Today's Family Lawyer reports that we have said the Legal Services Board's (LSB) proposed new rules and guidance for changes to regulatory arrangements are a significant improvement.
Stephanie Boyce said: "We have previously raised concerns with the LSB about a lack of supportive evidence and impact assessments in the rule change applications submitted to the oversight regulator.
"The new rules, however, show that the legal oversight regulator is improving these shortfalls to the benefit of the legal profession and all consumers of legal services."
Read our consultation response
Law Society Awards
Local Government Lawyer reports that Leeds City Council and South Lakeland District Council have been shortlisted for our In-House Team of the Year award.
South West London Law Centres has been shortlisted in our access to justice category.
Niche Magazine and Love Business East Midlands also cover our shortlist announcement, highlighting that Glynis Wright MBE, a partner and head of family at Nelsons, is among the nominees for the Woman Solicitor of the Year award.
The awards ceremony will take place virtually on 7 October.
Read the Law Society Awards 2021 shortlist in full
Also worth a read:
- UN to unveil largest ever report on climate change today – BBC
- Postcode lottery for rape victims fighting for justice – Times (£)
- Labour tells PM to 'get a grip' amid Rishi Sunak row – Independent
- UK law firm partners could face bigger tax bills in 2022 – FT (£)