Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPS)
The Guardian, Independent, GB News, Northern Echo, Reading Chronicle , Hereford Times, Oldham Times and hundreds of other publications look at government plans to speed-up changes to controversial Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPS).
Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce described the use of SLAPPS as 'controversial'.
She added: "It is in the public interest that our justice system works for all people regardless of their means and produces fair outcomes."
Overhaul of legal aid system
The Law Society's response to news the ministry of justice has proposed landmark changes to the legal aid system continues to be reported. The government has committed to increase criminal defence rates and to make welcome changes to the means test, which should improve access to legal aid.
"After decades of decline, it's a welcome relief to see the government commit to increase legal aid rates by the 15% that Sir Christopher Bellamy recommended – including for magistrates' court and police station work," said Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce.
"The Law Society and many others have been calling for investment for many years, and finally our concerns are being heard. This investment represents a welcome first step towards repairing our criminal justice system and ensuring defence solicitors are available when any of us may need them."
The Solicitors Journal, Times (£) and Plymouth Live cover the story, while the Gazette, Business Fast and Business Mayor looks at the proposed changes to the legal aid means tests.
Read our press release on changes to criminal legal aid and, separately, on legal aid eligibility.
Economic Crime Act gets Royal Assent
After a whistle-stop passage through parliament the Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) received Royal Assent. Today's Conveyancer, Business Fast and Business Mayor cover our response to the Economic Crime Act.
Stephanie Boyce said: "We understand the act needed to be brought in quickly, given the recent events in Ukraine. During the act's passage through parliament we highlighted ways to strengthen the legislation and address potential gaps with existing regimes. Further improvements should be possible via implementation of the legislation and related workstreams."
Read our press release
Cyber security questionnaire
The Gazette reports on a standardised cyber questionnaire developed by the Law Society and Bar Council, which will be launched later this month.
Also worth a read:
- Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe finally freed – BBC
- Supreme Court: Backing for solicitors over right to recover costs – Gazette
- Plan to tackle racial disparities in the UK – BBC
- Solicitor fined after 'deplorable' comments – Legal Cheek